Two researchers netting Long-Billed Curlews in Morley Nelson Snake River Birds of Prey NCA. Their research will provide information on migration and habitat use. Photo by the Intermountain Bird Observatory.

Natural Laboratories

The unique scientific values found within many units of the National Conservation Lands attract researchers in geology, biology, paleontology, botany, archaeology, history and ecosystem studies. In turn, scientific inquiry helps inform and strengthen BLM decisions about resource management. 

Research projects on the National Conservation Lands are conducted in partnership with universities, other government agencies, American Indian tribes, special-focus groups and non-governmental organizations, as well as individual scientists and citizen science groups. Several National Conservation Land units have completed science plans, and scientific research on these lands is guided by a National Strategy.