Management Plan

Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) was designated into the National Estuarine Research Reserve System because of its ecological significance as a major estuarine system in the Gulf of Mexico. In addition to its habitat and species diversity associated with the Grand Bay area, it also is part of one of the least developed shoreline areas along the northern Gulf of Mexico.

Staff and partners work collaboratively to address focus areas relating to habitat protection, climate change and water quality. To address these focus areas, we develop programs that increase scientific understanding and management of coastal resources, increase appreciation for the significance of coastal resources, and improve science-based decision-making regarding management of coastal resources.

Our vision is to inspire our community to value, support,
and practice ecosystem conservation.

Our mission is to be a leader in science and outreach,
in service to our community.

Meet the Director

Dr. Ayesha Gray is the Director of the Grand Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve.