![[image:] River in Grand Island RNA--Hiawatha NF](local-resources/images/wildriver.jpg "[image:] River in Grand Island RNA--Hiawatha NF. Photo by Lucy Tyrrell.")
Research Natural Areas (RNAs) are areas that the Forest Service has designated to be permanently protected and maintained in natural condition. These protected natural areas include
unique ecosystems or ecological features;
rare or sensitive species of plants and animals and their habitat;
and/or high-quality examples of widespread ecosystems.
More Information
- About Research Natural Areas - there are more than 430 RNAs established nationally. The network of RNAs helps protect biological diversity at the genetic, species, ecosystem, and landscape scales.
- Established Research Natural Areas - there are currently 44 established Research Natural Areas in the North Central and Northeastern states.
- Candidate Research Natural Areas - in the Eastern Region, there are 107 areas identified as candidate or potential RNAs, which are in various stages of review for possible establishment.
- Applying to use Research Natural Areas - researchers, managers, or individuals interested in conducting studies, or making observations in RNAs may download the application.
Last Modified: 11/08/2006
