Schoodic Institute is located within Wabanaki Homeland and in Acadia National Park. This place of ecological transition between temperate and boreal forest as well as coastal to inland ecosystems inspires our research to document and understand change from “sea to trees.” The region is experiencing longer growing seasons, heavier rain events as well as drought, and shifting plant and animal populations. Extreme weather events are damaging ecosystems, cultural resources, and infrastructure. Changes are happening quickly and are likely to accelerate in coming years to decades. Addressing these challenges here in Acadia, in neighboring communities, and beyond Acadia requires work that spans boundaries—among ecosystems, human communities, and institutions. It also means taking a broad perspective of science, recognizing and supporting multiple ways of connecting to, understanding, and communicating about the natural world.
We integrate science with research, learning, engagement, and communication. Staff scientists with expertise in ecosystem ecology, climate change adaptation, and biodiversity monitoring work together along with specialists in science information, education, and communication.
Working in partnership with the National Park Service, Schoodic Institute Adjunct Research Faculty, local communities, and other organizations such as Friends of Acadia, Schoodic Institute science programs study environmental change in three focal areas:
Our education and citizen science programs engage people of all ages in research to understand our changing world. Science Information & Communication professionals work with researchers to ensure that data about Acadia National Park’s natural and cultural resources are documented, archived, and accessible, while sharing stories of science past and present. We also coordinate and host the Acadia National Park Science Symposium.
Resources for Researchers
Interested in doing research in Acadia? Get more information on research permits, lab space, housing, and past and ongoing research. The Schoodic Institute campus is one of 17 National Park Service Research Learning Centers across the nation dedicated to increasing the effectiveness and communication of research in the national parks.
Second Century Stewardship fellowship and training programs support science in national parks.