DCR Research Proposal
Dear Researcher:
The Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) mission is to protect, promote, and enhance our common wealth of natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the well-being of all. Research is an essential component of DCR’s efforts.
DCR embraces collaboration and partnership with educational institutions, academic and professional researchers, and environmental organizations interested in conducting research on agency lands consistent with the agency’s mission. DCR and partner coordination avoids inadvertent disruption to agency management activities, mitigates impacts to ecologically or culturally sensitive areas and maximizes the benefits of research to the agency and the researcher. The permit application is the first element of a DCR Research Management System that enables partner research and access to a community of individuals that have contributed to the collective knowledge of DCR managed properties through their research.
All individuals or entities planning to conduct research on DCR lands begin by completing and submitting a Research Proposal. Proposals must be submitted at least 45 days prior to the desired start date. Once submitted, applications are reviewed by DCR local, regional, Office of Natural Resources, and senior staff. A site visit with the applicant may be necessary to clarify details and assess potential ecological or operational impacts. Please note that applications to DCR may also require approvals from local, state, or federal agencies.
Accepted research proposals are allowed for a maximum period of one calendar year. Each year, project proponents must submit an annual report of work completed during the year. The annual report is a prerequisite to a project being allowed in subsequent years. Research principals are responsible for submitting renewal requests and notifying DCR’s Research Office of project completion. Renewal Proposals must detail any changes to methods, scope, project proponents, and/or study locations. Renewal Proposals must be submitted at least 45 days prior to the desired start date.
Submit reports, theses or dissertations, research manuscripts, journal articles, publications and other pertinent material to the Research Office.
Thank you for your interest in conducting research on DCR lands. The DCR Research Office is committed to a partnership that benefits everyone. We look forward to forming and growing relationships to increase our understanding of our common wealth of natural resources.
Sincerely,
Don Kent
Director, DCR Research Office