Harrison Albert, Permit Coordinator and Resource Protection Specialist

Tell us about yourself and your work at NOS.

My name is Harrison Albert and I am the Permit Coordinator and Resource Protection Specialist at the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The sanctuary protects more than 4,530 square miles of waters surrounding the Florida Keys and is home to more than 6,000 animal species, diverse underwater habitats, and submerged historical and cultural resources.

In my role, I review and evaluate permit applications for activities that would otherwise be prohibited by sanctuary regulations. Permitting enables us to balance use of the sanctuary by a variety of user groups while also conserving natural resources for future generations. The types of permitted activities typically include research on natural and cultural resources, education, activities that support sanctuary management, and more. Specifically, I work on permits for research investigations to treat marine invertebrate diseases, efforts to develop novel coral reef restoration techniques, the collection of biological samples to develop biomedical compounds for human health, and research conducted from submersibles and subsea habitats. For each permit application, I evaluate the potential impacts to resources, consult with other agencies, and document environmental compliance for the activity.

How did you get to where you are now in your career?

While in college and graduate school, I took numerous environmental law and policy courses where I developed a strong passion for the regulatory field and the federal permitting process. After graduating, I worked as a scientist in the Florida Keys and held my own research permits to investigate marine invertebrates living on the coral reef, and to conduct activities from subsea habitats within the sanctuary. Through these projects, I became familiar with the sanctuary’s goal of resource protection. When the permit coordinator position opened up, I applied and the rest is history!

What about your work has felt especially exciting or rewarding?

Most of the projects I work on involve protecting and conserving animals listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. It is an honor and extremely rewarding to help promote the continued existence of these species and their critical habitats. My goal is to do what I can to ensure these resources are here for future generations to study, experience, and enjoy.

What would you recommend to those who want to begin a career in your field?

For those interested in the field of permitting and resource conservation, I recommend taking as many environmental law and policy courses as possible while in college. Then to seek out internship or job opportunities with organizations that work within or are connected to the regulatory field. Finally, always be on the lookout for job postings and opportunities and when one opens up, don’t be afraid to apply!