Yosemite's landscape is both defined and challenged by its environmental conditions, including plant and animal populations, air and water quality, and the impact of human activities on these. Scientific research projects create baseline data and analysis of these conditions, allowing park planners to make informed decisions for the future.

• Wilderness Experience Research
  Funding Needed: $2,800
  Although 95% of Yosemite is designated as wilderness, many intrusive human activities impact the backcountry. This study will gather basic information about wilderness use by tracking motorized and mechanized equipment and installations.
• Lakes, Ponds, Bogs and Springs
  Funding Needed: $173,926
  Yosemite’s wild populations provide a wealth of information for scientific study. Basic research, including fundamental population surveys provide baseline data for management planning and future research. This comprehensive study will inventory vascular plants, mosses and algal flora in lakes, ponds and springs in Yosemite.

Surveys of mountain lions, bees, goshawks, Great Grey owls, and bats. Research related to lakes, vegetation and stream mapping, climate analysis, amphibian decline, pioneer use in the wilderness, effects of grazing, Native American archeology and forest fire prediction.