Getting Aboard Marine Research
Published Mar 21, 2007
The Harte Research Institute is a perfect place to learn about marine life.
Having a world-class university situated directly on the Gulf of Mexico offers more than just great sun and surfing opportunities for students. The Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies is opening the door for cutting-edge research opportunities.
“We are a major research arm for Texas A&M University,” says Dr. Robert R. Furgason, director of Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies, named for Edward H. Harte, former publisher of the Corpus Christi Caller-Times and a local philanthropist. “Our work impacts the three Gulf of Mexico nations: Cuba, Mexico and the United States. We are the only research facility in the world that is focused completely on the Gulf of Mexico.
“The Gulf is a major economic driver for the three countries, and it is a critical environmental resource,” he continues. “Our challenge is to balance the two interests. Fisheries and petrochemicals are very important, but we must also protect sea grasses and marine life.”
One of the major research areas at the facility is Marine Policy and Law, Furgason says. “Policymakers significantly impact activities in the Gulf. We need to ensure that good science links with the policymakers. We have the most extensive Marine Policy and Law program in the country.”
Of all the cities on the Gulf, why choose Corpus Christi?
“Corpus Christi is the only city with a comprehensive university sitting right on the Gulf,” Furgason says. “Galveston has a facility on the Gulf, but it is not as comprehensive. Secondly, of course, our patron is Ed Harte, and he wants the facility in his hometown.”
Story by Mary Z. Afuso
Photo by Wes Aldridge
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