The Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve will host a public meeting on October 13, 2015 at 5:30 pm at the Bay Education Center in Rockport, Texas. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the Draft 2015-2020 Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Plan. The revised plan will replace the Reserve’s previous management plan that was approved in 2006. The revised management plan outlines the administrative structure; the research/monitoring, stewardship, education, and training programs of the Reserve; and the plans for future land acquisition and facility development to support Reserve operations.

With the approval of this revised management plan, the Mission-Aransas Reserve will increase their total acreage from 185,708 acres to 186,189. The change is attributable to the recent acquisitions of several parcels by Reserve partners. All of the proposed additions are owned by existing Reserve partners and will be managed for long-term protection and conservation value. These parcels have high ecological value and will enhance the Reserve’s ability to provide increased opportunities for research, education, and stewardship. The revised management plan will serve as the guiding document for the expanded 186,189 acre Mission-Aransas Reserve for the next five years.

The meeting will consist of a presentation about the revised Reserve management plan, followed by an opportunity for public comment. To view a copy of the revised plan, go to the following website: https://sites.cns.utexas.edu/manerr/about/management-plan. Public comments can also be provided to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and must be received prior to Oct 31, 2015.