Natural Resources
In Destin–Fort Walton Beach, our greatest asset isn’t just sugar-white sands or crystal-clear water, it’s the living, breathing ecosystem that makes this place unforgettable. That’s where the Natural Resources team comes in.
From managing Florida’s most active artificial reef program and leading the world’s largest lionfish tournament to protecting sea turtles, supporting coastal research and connecting the community through outreach and education, their mission is simple: keep our waters thriving, our lands protected and our adventures responsibly fun.
The Natural Resources team, a group of five dedicated biologists led by Natural Resources Chief Alex Fogg, works year-round to conserve native wildlife, restore habitats and create sustainable tourism experiences for families to enjoy on the Gulf and beyond.
Our goal is to make life in Destin-Fort Walton Beach, whether you live here, work here, or visit here, more valuable for all.
Explore the tabs below to learn more about the Natural Resources team.
Meet the natural resources team
Alex
Natural Resources Chief
Alex Fogg serves as the Natural Resources Chief for Destin-Fort Walton Beach tourism. In his role, he is involved in coastal and terrestrial ecotourism centered projects ranging from collaborative research programs and land management initiatives to beach restoration, waterway safety, artificial reef creation and invasive lionfish management.
Robert
Natural Resources Manager
Robert grew up camping, fishing, and backpacking on Colorado’s western slope. A fascination with the ocean led him to Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida for a Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Biology and state- level contributions to gamefish management and coastal habitat restoration with the Florida Dept of Environmental Protection and Southwest Florida Water Management District.
Jessica
Coastal Resources Manager
Jessica joined the Destin- Fort Walton Beach team in March 2021, and the main focus of her work is managing the sea turtle conservation program as the marine turtle permit holder. She and her team of volunteers conduct daily morning surveys looking for sea turtle nests and monitor the beaches throughout the nesting season. She conducts a large number of public education and outreach events and programs to inform locals and visitors about protecting sea turtles.
Jacob
Land Resources Coordinator
He started with the Destin- Fort Walton Beach team in April 2024 and is responsible for managing Okaloosa County land resources by balancing conservation with ecotourism. Current projects include developing and mapping hiking and camping opportunities at newly acquired North Shoal River Preserve and Shoal River Ranch as well as existing underutilized recreation areas. Jacob is also exploring the expansion of river and lake opportunities such as paddle trails and boat ramps.
Danielle
Coastal Resources Coordinator
Danielle joined the Natural Resources department in 2024 and plans on using her experiences in scientific diving, resources monitoring, and outreach to assist with current and future projects that will restore and conserve the beautiful resources we all love and depend on.
Ryan
Coastal Resources Coordinator
Ryan originally joined the Natural Resources team in 2024 as an intern but was later brought on as a Coastal Resources Coordinator. In this role, he is responsible for managing a collaborative fish tagging program with local charter captains, as well as maintaining research partnerships, lionfish removal efforts, and restoration projects. Additionally, Ryan is a part of the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Sea Turtle Patrol, where he works to protect the area’s marine turtles.
Athena
Coastal Resources Coordinator
A former fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, she has worked with Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Florida Fish and Wildlife Research Institute, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration on fisheries surveys, coral restoration,cand reef projects across Florida. Now in Okaloosa County, Athena supports Turtle Patrol, coastal surveys, artificial reef development, and lionfish control.
Jessica
Coastal Resources Coordinator
Jess joined the Destin–Fort Walton Beach Natural Resources team in April 2026 as a Coastal Resources Coordinator, supporting sea turtle patrol, habitat restoration, research, and community outreach.
Research and collaboration
Report a Devil Ray sighting to Mote
Our team is collaborating with the Mote Marine Laboratory to study Devil Ray migration in Northwest Florida. Have you seen a Devil Ray? Let us know!
Submit now
Emerald Coast Open
Lionfish are an invasive species to our area and our team collaborates to host the Emerald Coast Open Lionfish tournament each year to help eradicate them from our waters.
Learn more
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Our team works very closely with FWC to ensure we are complying with all regulations.
Find out how