Conditions Guiding Specimen Collection

Cataloging Your Collections and Sending Them Back

Fill out the cataloging spreadsheet

Please enter the data about your specimens into Acadia's Cataloging Spreadsheet. When collecting specimens in the field, be sure to please also collect the required data in a way that will be easy to convert into the Cataloging Spreadsheet. You will need an accession number and a set of catalog numbers to complete your Cataloging Spreadsheet.

Getting an accession number and catalog numbers for your specimens

Once you have collected your specimens, contact the Science Information Specialist with the number of specimens collected and she will issue an accession number and catalog numbers.

Labeling specimens

Specimens must bear NPS labels. The permittee should contact the Science Information Specialist before creating labels to ensure they contain the required information.

Returning specimens to Acadia

All specimens and their data must be returned to the park--they should NOT be sent directly to other repositories. Acadia National Park staff will send the specimens and loan forms to the requested repositories. Please contact the Museum Curator to arrange the return of specimens.

Property of the NPS

All specimens remain the property of the NPS as required by federal regulation, and must be accessioned and cataloged into the park's collection.

Scientific purposes only

Any specimens collected under this permit, any components of any specimens (including but not limited to natural organisms, enzymes or other bioactive molecules, genetic materials, or seeds), and research results derived from collected specimens are to be used for scientific or educational purposes only, and may not be used for commercial or other revenue-generating purposes unless you have entered into a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) or other approved benefit-sharing agreement with the NPS. The sale of collected research specimens or other unauthorized transfers to third parties is prohibited.

Last updated: September 15, 2025

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Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Phone:

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