Islands Trust Conservancy nature reserves are excellent places to conduct scientific research.
These spaces can provide natural laboratories to study how island ecosystems function and adapt.
They offer a diversity of landscapes in which to study old-growth forests, wetlands, herbaceous and riparian zones and more.
Researchers can take pride in knowing their work not only benefits their own studies but also provides much-needed information that helps manage these protected places.
Permission Required
If you are considering conducting research on a property protected by Islands Trust Conservancy, you will need to first get permission.
Please submit a written research proposal summarizing the:
- Purpose and goals of the research
- Time frame
- Methodology
- Anticipated benefits and potential impacts of the research
Send submissions to Islands Trust Conservancy’s Property Management Specialist (contact details below).
We recommend contacting staff early in the design of any research proposal concerning Islands Trust Conservancy nature reserves. Staff may have helpful suggestions regarding past research and potential methodology or techniques.
Areas Closed to Research
There are some reserves under Islands Trust Conservancy management that are closed to the public because they are home to species that are especially sensitive to disturbance (e.g. nesting birds).
Typically, research is not permitted in these areas unless the researcher demonstrates their work is essential to the survival of the particular species the reserve is closed to protect.
Financial Support
Research projects conducted in an Islands Trust Conservancy protected area, particularly those meeting specific management goals already set, may be eligible for financial support from Islands Trust Conservancy. For more information on the management goals of our nature reserves, please visit our nature reserve management plans page.
Funding is dependent on Islands Trust Conservancy’s annual budget availability and other management priorities. Contact staff to determine if your research project may be eligible for funding.