43 C.F.R. § 6302.16
When and how may I gather scientific information about resources in BLM wilderness?
Cite as 43 C.F.R. § 6302.16 (2026)
(a) You may conduct research, including gathering information and collecting natural or cultural resources in wilderness areas, using methods that may cause greater impacts on the wilderness environment than allowed under § 6302.15(a), if—
(1) Similar research opportunities are not reasonably available outside wilderness;
(2) You carry out your proposed activity in a manner compatible with the preservation of the wilderness environment and conforming to the applicable management plan;
(3) Any ground disturbance or removal of material is the minimum necessary for the scientific purposes of the research; and
(4) You have an authorization from BLM.
(b) You must reclaim disturbed areas, and BLM may require you to post a bond.
- Cross-references to the CFR
- 6302.15