INTRO

From general exploration and habitat characterization to investigations of specific research questions to routine monitoring of resource health, science in the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary plays a vital role in making informed resource management decisions. Information gathered by the sanctuary science team and our partners provides the information necessary to expand upon existing baseline data, compare existing habitat conditions with past conditions, and allocate limited resources to effectively target the most important management issues with research efforts. Today's sanctuary science continues to build upon the rich history of exploration and discovery in the northwestern Gulf of Mexico.

The Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary strongly encourages researchers and students to conduct their scientific studies at the site. In particular, the Sanctuary encourages science that supports management concerns. The logistics of conducting research at this site can often be challenging, given the distance from shore and limited access to the reef. Although we are usually unable to directly support projects through funding, we support research by facilitating access to the site. Most research activities require a permit from the sanctuary. Interested graduate students and principal investigators should contact the Research Coordinator to discuss their research ideas prior to launching a project.

For more information:

Current Research Projects

A Chronology of Research Projects (100kb pdf)

2007 Research Summary (336kb pdf)

2006 Research Summary (856kb pdf)

2005 Research Summary (328kb pdf)

2004 Research Summary (136kb pdf)

2003 Research Summary (320kb pdf)

2002 Research Summary (304kb pdf)

Recreational Diving Species List (240kb pdf)