Park research & preservation
Thanks to our strong reputation and relationship with leading scientists and researchers, Western National Parks has backed meaningful scientific study at many of the 70+ national parks we partner with. Since 1938, WNP-funded research has found ways to protect parks, preserve cultural and historical assets, and enhance the visitor experience.
WNP has awarded $720,000 in scientific research grants in the past seven years.
Universities, scientific institutions, and conservation and preservation groups respect our legacy of supporting robust inquiry in national parks. Researchers have investigated a wide range of topics in biology, geology, archaeology, anthropology, social science, and history.
Research stories
Padre Island National Seashore
Scientists assessed risks to juvenile green sea turtles
Tumacácori National Historical Park
Researchers digitally preserved and interpreted historical graffiti in the Tumacácori Mission Church.
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
Scientists examined a battle between two tree species.
Saguaro National Park
In 2026 with support from WNP, Saguaro National Park purchased an essential tool for measuring cactus growth, to help monitor ecosystem changes over time.
Padre Island National Seashore
In 2026, WNP funded Padre Island National Seashore's Chronolog stations. This citizen science project provides insights into how park landscapes change over time.
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Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Scientists used tree rings to date the Great Houses of Chaco Canyon.
