Research at Great Parks of Hamilton County

Results of research including any final reports produced or data collected should be submitted to Great Parks at research@greatparks.org within 3 months of research completion unless otherwise approved. Maps clearly identifying the study area should be included with the submission of a final report or any data. Researchers may request assistance from GPHC for maps if necessary. Researchers may be asked to present their findings to park district staff.

I have read and understand the Research Results Policy.*      

Natural Area Guidelines

Great Parks of Hamilton County (GPHC) invites researchers in the natural sciences to pursue various research projects in its parks and nature preserves. The philosophy of the park district is that preserved natural areas should be used as outdoor laboratories for scientific study of flora and fauna. However, because conservation of natural resources is the highest priority of Great Parks of Hamilton County and because the park district acts as a resource steward for all citizens of Hamilton County, the following guidelines have been established:

1. All proposals are reviewed by the park district's Research Committee. They will submit their recommendations for approval or disapproval to the Director of Natural Resources.
2. If applicable, a final report summarizing all research conducted must be sent to research@greatparks.org by the stipulated deadline in digital form. If the project extends beyond the deadline, an extension of the deadline must be sought from GPHC. Failure to file reports on time will result in denial of future research privileges. Spreadsheet data should be in Excel format and graphics should be in jpeg or tiff format. Mapping data should be in ArcMap shape files.
3. Projects unlikely to receive approval include those requiring habitat damage or unjustified removal of specimens from the parks. GPHC bylaws must be followed during the study.
4. If permission for collecting specimens is granted, the researcher shall be completely knowledgeable in the methods and use of any equipment for safe and efficient data collection and shall demonstrate this proficiency to the satisfaction of GPHC, if requested, by providing documented references and copies of previous projects of a similar nature.
5. Any plants or animals removed from the parks must be vouchered in a recognized and accessible herbarium or natural history museum location. Specimens of species currently endangered or threatened species within Ohio cannot be collected without appropriate permits. Photographic documentation should take the place of voucher specimens whenever possible.
6. Researchers must abide by all state laws, including permit regulations, and have current permits where so required. Copies of permits must be submitted to GPHC prior to beginning work.
7. The park district reserves the right to withdraw research permission if, once it has begun, the research is found to be detrimental to the park district.
8. A signed letter from GPHC Natural Resources giving approval to conduct research must be carried by the researcher as proof to Park Rangers that necessary approval has been granted.

By signing below, I attest that I have read and understand the Natural Area Guidelines.
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