NPS
National Park Service units, and other protected areas, provide unique opportunities for scientific research because these areas are preserved and relatively unaltered, and can be studied as reference points for comparisons with similar, altered environments. Research contributes to the understanding of southern California’s natural and cultural resources and is used for planning, management, and sharing with partners and the public.
Researchers may apply for an NPS Scientific Research and Collection Permit to conduct studies in Cabrillo National Monument, Channel Islands National Park and Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Permitted researchers study a variety of biological and social research topics. All are required to submit an annual report of their study progress and results. These Investigators' Annual Reports are then entered into the National Park Service Integrated Resource Management Applications (IRMA) Portal, a searchable database that is available for public use.
If you are interested in conducting research in any of our three parks, you can learn more about submitting applications for research permits by visiting the Research Permit page for each of our respective parks:
Last updated: November 26, 2018