The Rookery Bay Reserve's research program provides the scientific information necessary to support an adaptive management strategy for conservation of natural biodiversity for the area managed by the reserve. This strategy entails:
- Identifying areas of scientific uncertainty
- Planning and conducting field experiments to test hypotheses related to real-world management strategies
- Exporting this information to environmental managers and decision makers
- Recommending improved management strategies based on the results of these experiments
A primary function of the research program is to develop and monitor indicators of natural biodiversity at the levels of watershed, community, population and organism. This science-based hierarchical approach is necessary to more effectively manage the reserve's natural resources and to assess, prioritize and improve the effectiveness of future habitat restoration projects. To be successful, these activities are closely coordinated with the reserve's resource management, public access and education programs.
