How to Apply
Applications for a Research Permit are coordinated through the NPS Research Permit and Reporting System. This is done by creating an investigator’s profile, then “Submit applications for research permits” and following the subsequent instructions.
It is highly recommended to submit a research proposal or study plan in addition to the application. Proposals and study plans can be attached during the on-line application process. The application should clearly identify research questions to be answered, research methods, and locations to be studied in the park. Park personnel cannot approve a permit application without knowing the locations and methods to be used. Please be as detailed as possible.
Researchers are encouraged to submit their application at least 90-days in advance of the time they plan to arrive in the park. Processing and approval of a permit application involves several steps which include: various levels of review and compliance with NEPA, park regulations, and cultural resource protection.
Additional review may be required depending on the nature of the research. For example, any research project handling mammals will require approval from the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) before a research permit can be approved. Research done in Research Natural Areas also requires specialized permission. Applicants may be contacted by park staff and requested to provide additional information or clarification about the proposed work. Upon completion of these reviews, applicants will be notified via e-mail or telephone about the status of their permit. Researchers will be emailed a draft permit containing any mitigations or conditions that may be required.
Researchers may have mitigations or conditions imposed that are specific to MNRR. These are sometimes necessary due to temporary closures of areas, park operation, or other regulations. Once reviewed, researchers will sign the draft and return to the park for final approval by the Park Superintendent. Final permits will then be emailed back to the researcher. This paperwork must be carried each time the researcher is in the park.
Researchers might be asked to submit a formal safety plan to the park’s Research Coordinator and/or to receive a safety briefing before beginning field work. MNRR can be a dangerous place with multiple hazards including: water currents, rapidly changing weather, and rough terrain. Researchers carrying out their work in front country areas or in plain view of the public may also be asked to display some type of apparel that clearly identifies them as members of a field research team.
