Information for researchers
Glacier National Park
Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks
Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks (MRG) provide many opportunities for scientific research. The information provided here will help you navigate the permitting process to conduct research in one or both parks.
The review process takes time
All applications (new or renewal) for an upcoming field season must be submitted at least three months in advance of your anticipated fieldwork start date. Applications for 2027 will be accepted from September 1st, 2026 to February 15th, 2027.
Applications submitted outside of the intake period will be considered if the research objectives are developed in collaboration with Parks Canada Natural or Cultural Resource Managers. A proposal review request between February 15th and September 1st may be denied or have a greater than 90 day expected completion timeline.
Please take the time to review the information below before completing your application. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to reach out to the appropriate Research Coordinator (see List of Research Coordinators).
All researchers must apply for a Parks Canada Research and Collection Permit (RCP). All researchers need a valid national parks pass to carry out research in MRG. This can be obtained through the application process. Your application will be reviewed by the research coordinator, and if necessary, by subject experts. If research on animals is proposed, it must also be approved by an Animal Care Committee, either at a university or within Parks Canada.
Park permits for your fieldwork
Permitting
It is important to indicate the full range within your proposal. Contact the research coordinator in advance to ensure that all appropriate permits are arranged well ahead of your fieldwork. If you have any questions, reach out to the appropriate coordinator (see List of Research Coordinators). The applicable forms will be provided to you once your RCP has been approved.
Researcher Responsibilities
Researchers are expected to operate in a professional manner that complies with the Canada National Parks Act and the terms set out in their permits, including but not limited to:
Research in caves and avalanche terrain
A safety plan approved by your organization must be submitted for any research carried out in caves and avalanche terrain.
Species at Risk
Proposals for research that may affect species at risk, their critical habitat, or their residences must address the pre-conditions set out in the Species at Risk Act.
Securing wildlife attractantsIt is mandatory to ensure that all wildlife attractants, including food, toiletries and garbage, are secured using bear-resistant food containers, and/or an electric bear-proof fence approved by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee. Your method of food storage and frequency of garbage removal must be agreed upon with the MRG Research Coordinator and will form a separate condition that must be adhered to during your fieldwork.
Aircraft useAll aircraft must be operated in a manner that minimizes disturbance to wildlife, visitors and harvesters. If your field activities require aircraft access, the research coordinator will provide an application to apply for a Restricted Activity Permit.
Sharing your research
Parks Canada would like to learn about your research findings. Please consider all the reporting requirements of your RCP as part of the sharing process. In addition, Parks Canada may also has different avenues to help share your research with the public, such as displays in the park visitor centres, venues for public talks, social media or other.
Holders of a Parks Canada Research and Collections Permit are required to file with Parks Canada:
- A short field report within 60 days of completion of each field season
- An investigator’s annual report
- A final report and copies of all publications resulting from research conducted in MRG, within one month of publication
Emergencies
Some areas of MRG are remote, which can present challenges when dealing with emergencies. Although Parks Canada staff are trained in emergency response, the potential for delays in search and rescue response means that researchers must be prepared to deal with emergencies themselves until help arrives. Researchers should be familiar with safety considerations related to their work and always carry a satellite signaling device.
Researchers should be familiar with bear safety, carry bear spray, and know how to use it.
Any wildlife incident such as threatening encounters, damage to property, use of deterrents or injured/dead large mammals is considered an emergency and must be reported immediately.
In the event of a safety or wildlife emergency within MRG, contact Parks Canada’s 24hr Emergency Dispatch (1-780-852-3100) or press the SOS button on a satellite signaling device.