Science and Research

Katmai National Park presents a unique opportunity for researchers. With a wilderness over twice the size of Yellowstone comprised of complex and abundant ecosystems, Katmai offers a wealth of ecological data for everything from the habits of brown bears to the adaptations of tundra plants. With a kaleidoscope of dramatic formations and volcanic marvels, it is a geologist’s paradise. With over 9,000 years of human history and some of the densest archeological units in the park service, Katmai is a bounty for cultural research. Katmai offers a library of knowledge for understanding the world around us, if we only have the tools to translate it.

Click the links below to learn more about the research taking place in Katmai, as well as the diverse group of agencies and partners collaborating in park science.

 
A scientists moves a fur sample with tweezers, with equipment on the bench.
Natural Resources

Learn more about some of the research conducted by park biologists.

Three researchers examine a soil sample taken out of an excavated test pit.
Archeology

Learn about some of the research of Katmai's cultural resources team.

Bears walking on intertidal zone.
Changing Tides

This collaborative research project is studying the the links between intertidal invertebrates, coastal brown bears, and people.

A scientist looks through a scope with the ocean in the background
Southwest Alaska Network

The SWAN program is one of 32 National Park Service inventory and monitoring networks across the country.

A clam shell on a beach, with mountains in the background
Ocean Alaska Science and Learning Center

The OASLC is dedicated to understanding and preserving the marine ecosystems of Alaska's National Parks through research and education.

Equipment collects sound in a green field, with mountains in the background.
Soundscapes

Katmai's acoustic environment is recorded and studied by the Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division. Learn more about this research here.

The Northern Lights above a lake.
Alaska Park Science

Alaska Park Science is a semi-annual journal that shares what we are learning in Alaska's national parks.

A school of red salmon swim in a shallow stream
Science Articles

Browse articles related to Katmai from Alaska Park Science.

A scientist takes notes in the field
Research Permits

Find instructions on applying for a research permit.

A sea lion on a rock along the shore
Alaska Sealife Center

The ASC generates and shares scientific knowledge to promote understanding and stewardship of Alaska’s marine ecosystems (partner site).

A steaming volcano covered in snow
Alaska Volcano Observatory

The AVO monitors and studies Alaska's active volcanoes, including over ten active volcanoes in Katmai (partner site).

 

Research in Katmai National Park and Preserve

Loading results...

    Last updated: June 24, 2020

    Park footer

    Contact Info

    Mailing Address:

    PO Box 7
    1000 Silver Street, Building 603

    King Salmon, AK 99613

    Phone:

    907 246-3305

    Contact Us