Scientific Research

It is the policy of the National Park Service (NPS) to guarantee that management of parks is enhanced by the highest quality scientific information. Understanding our natural and cultural resources is vital to improving park management and expanding scientific knowledge. Permits may only be issued to official representatives of a reputable scientific or educational institution or a federal, tribal, or state agency to conduct scientific research activities. Research topics may include:

• Air Resources
• Biological Resources
• Climate
• Cultural Resources
• Environmental Quality
• Geology and Soils
• Geospatial
• Inventory and Monitoring
• Landscapes
• Natural Sounds and Night Skies
• Social Sciences
• Water Resources

How To Apply

Persons interested in collecting or conducting research must make application to the National Park Service. Applications may be obtained from and submitted to the specific park of interest or online at: https://irma.nps.gov/rprs/Home.