NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries this week announced the selection of Edward “Eddie” J. Kertis Jr., a retired colonel as the new superintendent of Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. He succeeds Sarah Fangman, who was promoted to West Coast region director in 2024, and David Burke, who served as acting superintendent.
Kertis’s appointment is effective June 15.
Kertis holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Stetson University and a master’s degree in environmental engineering sciences from the University of Florida, with a focus on wetlands ecology and hazardous waste management.
Kertis brings more than 28 years of leadership experience from the U.S. Army, including senior roles with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers overseeing major environmental, infrastructure and water resource programs across the United States and internationally. He also brings hands-on marine experience as a charter boat captain and divemaster, along with academic training in marine science. His tenure as a member of the Sanctuary Advisory Council provided first-hand insight into the Restoration Blueprint’s planning and rollout, while his active involvement in local civic and user organizations reflects his connection to the Keys community.
The sanctuary protects a coral reef ecosystem that is home to one of North America’s most diverse communities of underwater plants and animals. Nearly 6,000 marine species inhabit the coral reefs, mangrove forests, seagrass meadows and other habitats of the Florida Keys.
