Conducting Research

The Harvard Forest welcomes research by any investigator that is compatible with the goals of the Harvard Forest research program, the integrity of the ecosystem, and the cultural and aesthetic characteristics of the site.

What you need to know about doing research at Harvard Forest

Harvard Forest has many resources available for visiting researchers.  Please review the resources and policies below before filling out a research project application (RPA). RPAs are required for all projects at Harvard Forest.  Fees for these resources are listed on the Forest User Fee Schedule. 

Returning Researchers

If you are a returning researcher and need to request housing, update or create a new research application, please proceed to directly to login page.

Research Facilities and Resources

Harvard Forest provides a wide variety of research facilities both in the field and laboratory to assist in performing research on our campus.

Please review the full description of the research facilities, site description and any associated fees that are related to it.

• Field Wireless
• Greenhouses & Experimental Garden
• Laboratories
• Meteorological & Hydrology Stations
• Research Towers
• Biomass Heating System
• Herbarium
• Archival Research Resources (documents, research samples and library)
• Facility Operations and Equipment (mobile canopy access lift, heavy equipment, vehicles, and skilled woods crew staff)

For more information contact the Site Manager.  In addition, specific fees for these services can be found at User Fee Schedule.

If you will be doing field research, please review the Field Research Checklist and Field Safety Basics. 

Research Policies

Please review the Harvard Forest research policies before requesting use of facilities. 

Information Management

Harvard Forest provides facilities for long-term archiving and online access to scientific data through its Data Archive.  All researchers must submit copies of data and relevant documents for long-term archiving at the Forest.   For more information contact Emery Boose, Information Manager.  Researchers must adhere to policies for the submission of research data and metadata. 

Meeting Facilities

Meeting space for small to large groups, with AV capabilities is available.  Contact Laurie Chiasson, Meeting Coordinator  with questions.  Fees for this service can be found in the User Fee Schedule.

Housing and Accommodations

Limited short and long-term housing is available for visiting researchers and staff.  To request reservations, researchers must have a completed and approved RPA.  Learn more about the surrounding area and staying in Petersham.  Contact Laurie Chiasson, Housing Coordinator with questions.  

Research Project Application (RPA)

Use the Research Project Application to submit a request to initiate a new project or to detail the annual update regarding ongoing research projects. Contact Audrey Barker Plotkin if you have any questions related to the Research Project Application process. 

All researchers are expected to follow our Research Policies and abide by the Harvard Forest Code of Conduct.