A project funded by a CA Climate Action grant will help coastal communities forecast climate change impacts by utilizing environmental data collected by a network of UC Natural Reserves and nearby monitored sites.
Main Content
The nature of UC
About us
The UC Natural Reserve System is a library of ecosystems throughout California. Most of the state’s major habitat types are represented, from coastal tidepools to inland deserts, and lush wetlands to redwood forests. No other network of field sites can match its size, scope, and ecological diversity. The NRS offers outdoor laboratories to field scientists, classrooms without walls for students, and nature’s inspiration to all.
By the numbers
What we do
News and Highlights

Even Sonoran Desert plants aren’t immune to climate change
Supposedly drought-tolerant Sonoran Desert species hit their breaking points.

Elephant seals sleep while diving far below the ocean surface
Brainwave patterns show elephant seals sleep 2 hours per day while diving for months at sea, rivaling the record for the least sleep among mammals.
Plan your visit to the NRS
Access to NRS reserves is by permission only. Reserves are available for teaching, research, and public service, but not general recreation.
Apply to visit via our Reserve
Application Management System
Stay up to date on the latest NRS science discoveries, lectures, and events