News Release

Texas A&M-Corpus Christi Receives a Research Permit from Padre Island National Seashore

Date: March 6, 2024
Contact: Kelly Taylor, 361-949-8173 Ext 427

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi’s Lone Star Unmanned Aircraft System Center of Excellence and Innovation (LSUASC) will once again reach new heights thanks to the work they are doing with unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). LSUASC recently received a scientific collection and research permit from the federal government that will allow them to conduct studies with their drones along Padre Island National Seashore (PAIS).

The research LSUASC will conduct at PAIS is part of the national seashore’s continuing efforts to support the sea turtle program. LSUASC will be able to assist and monitor in the rescue of cold-stunned turtles, and map beach erosion. UAS flights can also eventually support the monitoring of other species of wildlife, as well as map tidal areas along the Laguna Madre and grassland areas on the interior of the island. It’s a first of its kind research project.

When the drones do take flight above the national seashore it will be a rare sight, and for good reason. There is a National Park Service policy that prohibits the use of unmanned aircraft in national park units without a permit issued by the superintendent. Officials with PAIS say if you are caught flying an unauthorized drone you could face a federal misdemeanor charge that comes with a maximum penalty of six months in jail and a $5,000 fine.

To learn more about the use of drones and UAS in national parks, visit https://www.nps.gov/articles/unmanned-aircraft-in-the-national-parks.htm