Partnership Formed Between Harte Research Institute and Gulf of Mexico Trust to Enhance Sustainability of the Texas Gulf Coast

The partnership forged between the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi (HRI) and the Gulf of Mexico Trust (GOMT) is built on key shared missions with the overarching goal to enhance the health and sustainability of the Gulf of Mexico.

From scientific research, conservation efforts, sustainable management, education, and outreach to policy advocacy, the partnership leverages the expertise and resources of both organizations to provide science-driven solutions to many of the challenges facing the Gulf of Mexico.

On October 24, that partnership was formally announced and is the beginning steps of a joint venture that will ensure a vibrant Texas Gulf Coast for the future. 

“The partnership between the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies and the Gulf of Mexico Trust is built on shared goals and ideas of working to sustain the Gulf of Mexico,” said Jay Kleberg, Gulf of Mexico Trust Executive Director. “This collaboration leverages the expertise and resources of both organizations to address the challenges facing the Gulf.”

The partnership stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in safeguarding the essence of coastal life and ensuring the legacy of a region while being anchored by a commitment to people and the environment.

“HRI has long been a leader in delivering science-backed solutions for the Texas coast and the Gulf of Mexico, including Cuba and Mexico,” said Greg Stunz, HRI’s Senior Executive Director. “The Gulf of Mexico Trust strengthens this effort with a Texas-based coalition focused on advancing sustainable use and conservation of the Gulf through pragmatic solutions.”

HRI has strived to be a leader in providing science-backed solutions for the Texas coast and the Gulf of Mexico in areas such as coastal restoration, water quality, and ocean health.

HRI has driven efforts such as the Sink Your Shucks™ oyster recycling program that has restored more than 40 acres of reefs along the Coastal Bend, the Bringing Baffin Back™ initiative that has helped to restore one of America’s unique water treasures, the Sportfish Center that ensures robust recreational fishing, and the ‘CINDI’ project to help find and locate key habitats for water birds along the Texas Coast.

The Gulf of Mexico Trust is helping to enhance that with a Texas-based coalition that advances the long-term sustainable use and conservation of the Gulf of Mexico with pragmatic solutions that work for industry, the environment, and communities in Texas and beyond.

In partnership with HRI and others, the Gulf of Mexico Trust has worked to improve water quality and water supply in the Baffin Bay watershed. GOMT has supported the implementation of HRI’s real-time harmful algal bloom monitoring network to protect human health and coastal economies. GOMT is also working with state and federal partners on Texas’ Upper Coast to expand efforts to restore and conserve the Chenier Plain — the largest contiguous estuarine marsh complex in Texas and is collaborating with entrepreneurs and conservation organizations to accelerate opportunities in oyster farming and oyster reef restoration.  

Nearly a quarter-century ago, Mr. Edward H. Harte donated $46 million to establish a new research institute at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi to focus on the Gulf of Mexico, and in Ed’s words, to “make a difference.”

This partnership is a continuation of that vision and directive. HRI and the Gulf of Mexico Trust are working to bring together scientists, businesspeople, policymakers, philanthropists, non-governmental organizations, and communities to improve the Gulf for all.\