What We Do

The Natural Resource Team contributes to a scientific foundation in support of resource management, policy formation, and visitor programs in Alaska's parks. We conduct science in support of natural resource stewardship in Alaska. We support consistent implementation of the Wilderness Act and the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA), and other laws and policies. And, we collaborate with, and facilitate communication between, parks, regional office programs, and partners to advance the NPS mission and its programs and policies.

Explore Alaska Natural Resources

  • A woman scientist filters for clams on a beach with mountains.
    Alaska Park Science

    Alaska Park Science is a regional science journal that reports findings from natural and cultural resource research.

  • Sled dogs run out of snow travelling back to their kennel in Denali.
    Climate Change

    Alaska is warming twice as fast as the rest of the country. Our science explores how climate change impacts park ecosystems and resources.

  • A woman fits a camera in the belly of a plane to capture lidar images.
    Geographic Information Systems

    Structure-from-motion, high-definition scanning, GPS tracking, are all some of the tools we use to conduct science.

  • A large landslide that moved huge rocks.
    Geology and Geological Processes

    Geohazards, thawing permafrost, fossils, and glaciers are all part of Alaska's active geology.

  • Scientists survey a small stream.
    Hydrology and Stream Restoration

    Freshwater restoration projects currently underway will improve water quality and salmon habitat.

  • A crew surveys for elodea in a wetland.
    Invasive Species Management

    Invasive species grow rapidly, spread with little or no human assistance, are expensive to remove, and difficult to control.

  • A scientist in an orange float coat next to an inflatable raft takes water quality measures.
    Ocean and Coastal Science

    Alaska parks include 3,600 miles of coastline. We study marine and coastal ecosystems to support management decisions.

  • People in a large open area surrounded by mountains.
    Wilderness

    Alaska wilderness areas are different; they are home to Indigenous Peoples and provide innumerable benefits.

  • Two researchers weigh a brown bear.
    Wildlife

    Alaska parks are habitat for wildlife, provide for subsistence activities, and provide important research opportunities.

Last updated: January 30, 2024

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