Scientists, professors and students who wish to complete field surveys, collect or investigate specimens of any type must apply for a Permit to Conduct Archaeological, Biological, Geological, Paleontological or Soil Collections/Investigations. The Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) does not issue permits for general classroom collecting, either supervised or unsupervised, because of the tremendous impact that thousands of students participating in such activities would have on DPR’s resources.
The permit application should include a research design of one or two pages. Maps should be included detailing areas to be surveyed and sampled and routes of access. Digital copies of these maps should be provided in kmz or shapefile format and show as precisely as possible the areas of interest. Large circles and boxes drawn around a proposed research area or referrals to map sections normally are too vague. Including unnecessary areas on the map may result in unexpected restrictions and delay permit approval.
Students, of graduate as well as undergraduate standing, must have a supervising faculty member provide a signed letter stating explicitly that he or she approves of the student’s permit request and research design. The faculty supervisor will be listed on the permit as the responsible party of record and must sign it as a representative of the scholastic institution. As the responsible party, he or she agrees to insure that the student will comply with all conditions of the permit, including the final report.
Please note that a DPR-approved Resource Monitor may be required. If a monitor is required, the applicant may provide one. The applicant is responsible for any costs associated with monitoring. A minimum of 90 days is required to process applications.
After field investigation or collecting is completed, a project report (digital and three hard copies) must be submitted to the Colorado Desert District instead of State Parks. The report, as required, includes GIS digital coordinates, maps of sampling sites and other activities, raw data generated by collection and sample analyses, plus evidence of compliance with any non-standard conditions included on the permit. Digital GIS data files compatible with Colorado Desert District databases will be provided to the District’s GIS staff. For further information call: 760-767-4037