CCA Texas

Wednesday, January 3rd, 2007

Coastal Conservation Association and University of Texas Marine Science Institute partner for the creation of $700,000 marine science lab

                Houston, TX – Representatives of Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) and the University of Texas Marine Science Institute (UTMSI) recently met in Port Aransas, Texas to ceremonially break ground on what will be one of the foremost marine larviculture laboratories in the world.  This $700,000 facility will focus on the production of such recreationally important species as flounder, cobia, snapper and snook and produce cutting-edge research on increasing the success of existing hatcheries.

            “This lab will allow us to move our studies up to a higher level with a novel system of tanks and environmental controls.  With the addition of new modern laboratory space we will have an unparalleled capability for critical work on Texas fisheries, with implications for fisheries nationwide,” said Dr. Joan Holt, Associate Director of Fisheries and Mariculture at UTMSI.

            UTMSI is home to the most advanced marine fisheries disciplines research in the world including the physiology, biochemistry, and ecology of marine plants and animals; dynamics of marine ecosystems; mariculture; and environmental monitoring.  It is the oldest marine research station on the Texas Gulf Coast.

                        “UTMSI is known throughout the world as a leader in marine fisheries studies.  This new facility will be a significant tool to gain a better understanding of the life-cycles of many recreational species,” said CCA Texas Executive Director Robby Byers.  “The science and research undertaken at this facility will advance our knowledge of these species to levels we have only dreamed about in the past.”

                        CCA Texas, a non-profit marine conservation organization, is partnering with UTMSI in providing $700,000 to completely fund the design, construction and equipment for the creation of this state-of-the-art lab.

“Its inspiring to know that CCA’s funding came directly from grassroots fundraising at the local chapter level,” said Will Ohmstede, Chairman of CCA Texas. “Thanks the hard work and dedication of thousands of CCA Texas volunteers, donors and sponsors, the future of Texas’ coastal fisheries is much brighter.”

                        “This historic facility is 100-percent paid for by CCA volunteers,” said Mark Ray, Chairman of the CCA/UTMSI Building Committee. “Every chapter president, volunteer and member can take personal pride in putting this scientific jewel in place.”

***END***