Yosemite is an ideal place to study the natural world. Scientists working in this “living laboratory” explore biodiversity, geology, climate change and more. Your support can fund research that informs efforts to understand and protect the park’s resources today and prepare for the future.
Current Projects

Protect Big Wall Bats – 2019
Study winter roosting sites on Yosemite’s granite walls to protect diverse bat species from deadly white-nose syndrome.
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Research the PCT: Trail Use Studies – 2019
Survey Yosemite hikers and analyze permit processes to improve wilderness access and protect habitat along the Pacific Crest/John Muir Trail.
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Study Songbirds: 30th Anniversary – 2019
Monitor hundreds of avian species to understand bird population trends in Yosemite, home to one of North America’s longest-running songbird-banding research programs.
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Survey Mountain Lion Populations – 2019
Use detection dogs to study mountain lions in Yosemite, a potential refuge for the keystone felines, which face statewide habitat loss.
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How is climate change affecting Yosemite’s plant and animal populations? What can a tiny sample of water tell us about the organisms living in an alpine lake? How does Yosemite’s shrinking glacial ice impact ecosystems in and beyond the park?
Donor-funded projects help deepen scientific understanding of natural processes, flora and fauna, and human impacts on the environment. Browse our past projects to see innovative research our supporters have made possible.
Areas of Focus
Thanks to supporters, we’ve provided $125 million to Yosemite for more than 640 completed projects. Donor gifts help improve trails, restore habitat, protect wildlife, inspire the next generation of nature-lovers and more. Explore our funding areas to see current and past projects.-
Trail Rehabilitation
& AccessTrail Rehabilitation
& Access -
Wildlife
ManagementWildlife
Management -
Habitat
RestorationHabitat
Restoration -
Scientific
ResearchScientific
Research -
Cultural &
Historic PreservationCultural &
Historic Preservation -
Visitor
Services & EducationVisitor
Services & Education -
Youth in
YosemiteYouth in
Yosemite -
Past
Projects