The Refuge supports a variety of research and resource survey work conducted in association with graduate work at various universities and/or implemented by other public (e.g., USGS, CDFG), private, and non-profit researchers (e.g., California Native Plant Society, Center for Natural Lands Management, San Diego Natural History Museum).  All research conducted on the Refuge is evaluated to ensure that the work being conducted is compatible with Refuge purposes and is likely to result in benefits to Refuge management and/or Refuge resources.  Work conducted on the Refuge by outside parties that are not directly related to Refuge management may only be conducted after a Special Use Permit (SUP) has been issued by the Refuge Manager.