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We conduct innovative research

Clara Pregitzer holds a clipboard and measuring tape in a forest

Why do we study natural areas?

Through our research projects and partnerships, the Natural Areas Conservancy is gaining a better understanding of the value of urban natural areas and their role in combating climate change, both in New York City and nationwide. We’re developing resources and tools that help advance the planning, restoration, and conservation of natural areas now and into the future.

From the cooling effects of trees to funding trends for natural areas, our environmental research digs deep into the economic, public health, and climate benefits of forests, wetlands, and grasslands. Our goal is to fill gaps in scientific knowledge about these critical areas, improve their care, and make the case for preserving them.

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What we study

  • Climate IconClimate
  • People iconPeople
  • Urban Ecology iconUrban Ecology
  • Public Policy iconPublic Policy

Issues we're prioritizing

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More about our recent work

Cooling Cities: How Forests and Urban Natural Areas Cool Our Cities in Extreme Heat

By Shannon Jordy The Natural Areas Conservancy has just released an exciting report detailing the significant cooling effects of urban natural areas in New York City and in 11 other cities across the U.S. La...

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  • Helen Forgione, NAC senior ecologist, adds a sticky note to a bulletin board that reads “scientific research and synthesis”
  • A group of trails crew leverage a boulder using long shovels

    Start your environmental research career here

    The NAC has seasonal and year-round internship opportunities that support both our independent and collaborative research and data analysis efforts.

    See Opportunities
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