Science for Decisionmaking in the National Parks

On the northern Colorado Plateau and across the nation, National Park Service managers are responsible for preserving America’s most special and treasured places. Knowing which key resources are found in their parks, and whether those resources are stable or changing, can help park managers make sound, science-based decisions about the future.

The Northern Colorado Plateau Network is one of 32 networks helping to provide that knowledge. Our scientists and partners collect long-term data on key park resources—like plant communities, soils, and the quality and quantity of water. We analyze the results and report them to park managers, who can use what we've learned to make informed decisions.