Conservation Science
Protecting nature is what we do. Science shows us how. We tell the stories behind Nature Conservancy science — from the field to the research lab, and everywhere in between.
From the Field
We get our boots dirty. Join us as we cover science in action, from stormwater drains to the Indonesian rainforest..
When Sea Cucumbers Spawn, Where Do Their Larvae Go?
New research on sea cucumber genetics indicates that locally managed marine areas are a good way to protect this fishery for communities.
A Tailgate for the Sun
Join writer Jenny Rogers as she watches the solar eclipse from a remnant patch of blackland prairie in Texas.
50 Fish, 50 States: Bass of the Waterfalls
The shoal bass faces some serious threats. But a new legion of fans bring hope for this species.
Borax Lake Chub: Conserving a High Desert Survivor
This fish has adapted to a lake high in arsenic and heavy metals. But human activity poses a greater challenge.
Communities Unite to Save Papua New Guinea’s Forests from Logging
A group of villages in Papua New Guinea decided to protect their damaged rainforests from future clearcuts. A photographer captured that work in action.
Coral Atolls are Not a Lost Cause
An international team argues that strategic ecological restoration could save coral atoll islands from the rising seas of climate change.
Science for Strategy
Science is strategy. Learn from 600 scientists & our partners researching the best way to protect nature.
Meet the World’s Largest Freshwater Crayfish
National Geographic Society & TNC extern Zoe Starke shares her experience studying the 13-pound Tasmanian giant crayfish.
What Does Urbanization Mean for Melbourne’s Platypus?
National Geographic Society & TNC extern Brendan Cohen recounts his kayak journey along the Yarra River, where platypus are under threat from urbanization.
A Future with Sturgeon: A Personal Journey with Dinosaur Fish
National Geographic Society & TNC extern Joseph Hill recounts his experiences helping to protect Atlantic sturgeon.
From Moose to Marmots, Microclimates Could Provide Climate Buffer
Microclimates — variation in everything from rock formations to vegetation — will help species survive the current and future climate crisis.
Connect to Nature Near You: 4 Fun + Informative (+Free) Apps
Looking for free and informative mobile apps to help you connect with nature near you wherever you are? We’ve got you covered. Pristine natural areas not required.
Notes from Eclipses Past: Nervous Hippos, Sad Ducks & Bewildered Ground Squirrels
How do animals react to solar eclipses? Scientists don’t know much, but what they do know is, well, sometimes a little weird.
Science Brief
Your hub for the latest peer-reviewed research powering conservation action.
Archives
New Study Finds People and Nature Thrive With Diversified Farming
A new global study finds that the benefits of diversified agriculture are abundantly clear, whether for food security, biodiversity or the bottom line.
Overlooked ‘Albedo’ Effect Should Be Factored into Tree Cover Restoration Decisions for Climate
Albedo changes can reduce the climate benefit of tree planting, but new research helps identify areas with the greatest climate-cooling potential.
Want Resilient Coral Reefs? Bring Back Seabirds
Eradicating rats and restoring seabird populations could increase coral reef resilience to climate disturbances.
Running the Numbers on Global Seabird Restoration
A new database of global seabird restoration projects allows scientists to analyze trends and provides a tool for practitioners looking to effectively restore seabirds and coastal ecosystems.
Empowering Communities with Solar
The ongoing transformation of the U.S.’s energy systems creates a compelling opportunity to build the energy infrastructure of the future.
Restoring Old-Growth Forests in the Pacific Northwest: Lessons from TNC’s Ellsworth Creek Preserve
Scientists are evaluating 15 years of forest management at TNC’s Ellsworth Creek Preserve to inform large-scale forest restoration efforts.