Partnerships
The US Fish and Wildlife entered into a cooperative agreement with Point Reyes Bird Observatory (PRBO) in 1968. The agreement allows PRBO to conduct numerous studies on the wildlife and maintain as presence on the island in addition to monitoring population levels. The arrangement allows FWS to acquire population data and PRBO to perform non-FWS funded studies at the lowest cost to both parties.
Cooperation is not limited to wildlife studies, however. The US Coast Guard runs and maintains the lighthouse and sometimes provide transportation. The National Weather Service has a weather station on the island and PRBO personnel call in the weather at least twice daily. University of California Berkeley has seismographic sensors on the island. The Air National Guard has been very helpful in transporting supplies to the island and providing helicopter support when private companies are not available (often due to wildfires). NOAA conducts intertidal surveys twice each year to monitor changes in species diversity and abundance at the island.
The Oceanic Society also provides logistical support for scientific research personnel traveling to and from the field station on Southeast Farallon Island, for International Bird Rescue and other wildlife rehabilitation centers with a platform for sea release of rehabilitated wildlife. All Oceanic Society proceeds from Farallon boat tours are applied to conservation research and education.