THREE COUNTRIES ONE GULF

The Gulf of Mexico’s shorelines touch three different nations — the United States, Mexico, and Cuba — and HRI continues to foster sustainable management of the Gulf’s resources through a trinational initiative.

Through scientific research, education, public outreach, and a focus on cross-border collaboration, HRI’s international collaborations continue to build on regional planning that is designed to preserve and protect shared waters and marine habitats. The cooperation is important because the Gulf of Mexico’s ecosystems are not hindered by international boundaries, and actions taken by one country can have profound effects on the entire region.

Dr. Silvia Patricia González Díaz, the Furgason Fellowship International Chair for Coastal and Marine Studies in Cuba; Dr. Mark Besonen, HRI Director of International Programs and Associate Research Scientist; and Dr. Fernando Nuno Dias Marques (Nuno) Simões, the Furgason Fellowship International Chair for Coastal and Marine Studies in Mexico; are HRI’s leading experts fostering international collaboration in coastal and marine research across the Gulf of Mexico region.

From work on Mexico’s unique cenotes ecosystems, to participation in the MarCuba scientific meetings in Cuba, to the popular Student Workshop on International Coastal and Marine Management (SWIMM) program, international cooperation has been important to help grow awareness across the region.

As part of the SWIMM program, which fosters cross-cultural understanding and promotes development of future leaders, students in 2023 developed surveys to study the economic value of recreational fisheries across the Gulf of Mexico. The unique study surveyed recreational anglers and service providers alike on topics such as spending habits, preferences, and services.

The study will help provide valuable data on the impact of the industry on a Gulf-wide scale and provides insights into how recreational fishing contributes to the conservation and economic vitality of coastal communities, supports livelihoods, and influences local and regional economies.

Findings from the survey continue HRI’s commitment to international cooperation and are instrumental in shaping future conservation efforts and sustainable economic practices across the Gulf of Mexico.