Join us for an engaging Coastal Issues Forum!
“Characterizing Water Quality in the Nueces River Tidal Segment”
Date: November 9, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: Del Mar College – Center for Economic Development, 3209 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX
Join us for an upcoming Coastal Issues Forum to learn about the Nueces River Tidal Segment—a 12-mile stretch of river influenced by the tides, where river water and coastal processes interact before reaching Nueces Bay.
Funded by the Coastal Bend Bays & Estuaries Program (CBBEP), an ongoing water quality study examines nutrients and bacteria to help scientists better understand conditions in this important waterway.
Why should we care? Water quality affects the health of our bays, fish and wildlife, and the natural resources we all share. Monitoring isn’t about assuming there’s a problem—it’s about gathering facts, understanding what the data tells us, and asking informed questions.
Fun fact: Did You Know? The slow-moving tidal waters of the lower Nueces River act like a giant, liquid Petri dish when it rains.
- Networking Reception: 5:30–6:00 PM
- Interactive Presentation: 6:00–7:30 PM
Networking ~ Free Food ~ Open to the Public ~ Interactive
Coastal Issues Forums (CIFs) are made possible through the generous support of our partners and are always free and open to the public, with no RSVP required.
CIFs are designed to bring together diverse community stakeholders to identify key challenges facing the Texas Coastal Bend and explore practical solutions, while also educating the public about relevant programs and opportunities. These forums foster open dialogue in a welcoming, non-biased environment that encourages learning, collaboration, and community engagement.
Meet the Presenter
Sam Sugarek, Research Specialist, Center for Coastal Studies – Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi
Sam Sugarek has been involved in water quality monitoring projects in South Texas for over 26 years. A majority of his career was spent at the Nueces River Authority working on the Texas Clean Rivers Program and conducted various water related studies across the watershed. In 2023, he began working as a Research Specialist at the Center for Coastal Studies at Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi where he works on water quality and education outreach projects.
Whether you’re a business owner, partner, or community supporter, there’s a place for you at the table. Come connect, contribute, and be part of the community.
Check out some of the recorded CIF presentations on our YouTube! Click HERE!
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