Research Proposal
If you want to access to trust lands for research, you must submit a research proposal
Dear Researcher:
The Robert D. Wray Trust (RDWT) is a 501(c)(3) Private Foundation. The foundation’s mission has three main areas of focus; to give financial support to public charities that provide relief for the poor, distressed or underprivileged, to cultivate and support the arts and arts education in our area, and to conserve ecologically and historically significant land owned by the trust. Research is an essential component of RDWT’s efforts.
RDWT embraces collaboration and partnership with educational institutions, academic and professional researchers, and environmental organizations interested in conducting research on trust land consistent with the trust’s mission. RDWT and partner coordination avoids inadvertent disruption to trust management activities, mitigates impacts to ecologically or culturally sensitive areas and maximizes the benefits of research to the trust and the researcher. The permit application is the first element of a RDWT research management system that enables partner research and access to a community of individuals that have contributed to the collective knowledge of RDWT managed properties through their research.
All individuals or entities planning to conduct research on RDWT lands begin by completing and submitting a Research Proposal. Proposals must be submitted at least 45 days prior to the desired start date. Once submitted, applications are reviewed by RDWT. A site visit with the applicant may be necessary to clarify details and assess potential ecological or operational impacts. Please note that applications to RDWT may also require approvals from local, state, or federal agencies.
Accepted research proposals are allowed for a maximum period of one calendar year. Each year, project proponents must submit an annual report of work completed during the year. The annual report is a prerequisite to a project being allowed in subsequent years. Research principals are responsible for submitting renewal requests and notifying RDWT of project completion.
Renewal Proposals must detail any changes to methods, scope, project proponents, and/or study locations. Renewal Proposals must be submitted at least 45 days prior to the desired start date.
Submit reports, theses or dissertations, research manuscripts, journal articles, publications and other pertinent material to the Research Office.
Thank you for your interest in conducting research on RDWT land. We look forward to forming and growing relationships to increase our understanding of our natural resources.
Sincerely,
Maeve Donohue
Director of Research, Robert D. Wray Trust
Applications must be submitted at least 45 days prior to the proposed start date. Research permits are granted for a maximum of 1 calendar year and require a renewal permit application for additional years.