Department of Conservation and Recreation
Conserve. Protect. Enjoy.
Department of Conservation and Recreation
The Natural Heritage Program welcomes scientific research to improve ecological knowledge and to better inform restoration, stewardship and conservation of biodiversity. Our Natural Area Preserves offer opportunities to study Virginia's plants, animals and natural communities on some of the most ecologically important lands in the Commonwealth.
Natural Area Preserves are located across all of Virginia's physiographic regions and by design protect rare species and diverse natural communities. The primary management goal of NAPs is to protect, maintain, and restore rare species habitats and significant natural communities. We encourage studies which contribute to the body of knowledge that informs natural area preserve management.
Universities across Virginia and the US have used Natural Area Preserves as field sites for research. Beginning in 2000, over 300 research studies have been conducted within the Virginia Natural Area Preserve System. These studies have provided valuable information to help protect Virginia's unique natural communities and the native plant and animal populations these communities contain.
If you are interested in conducting a research study within a natural area preserve, please submit a Research and Collecting Permit Application. An approved "Research and Collection Permit" is required to ensure protection of sensitive areas and resources. Include any supporting materials in your application. Please allow up to 30 days for review.
We look forward to working with you to accomplish your research goals.
For questions about research on natural area preserves, contact the Natural Areas Science Coordinator, Ryan Klopf (ryan.klopf@dcr.virginia.gov).
