This collection contains correspondence, reports, and other material regarding the University of California (UC) Natural Reserve System, a network of protected natural areas throughout California that are administered by UC. Primarily includes material pertaining to the University of California, Riverside (UCR) Natural Reserve System including the Box Springs Reserve, Boyd Deep Canyon Desert Research Center, Emerson Oaks Reserve, Motte Rimrock Reserve, James San Jacinto Mountains Reserve, Etiwanda Wash Reserve (property sold), and Sweeney Granite Mountains Desert Research Center. Material regarding sites proposed as possible additions to the UC Natural Reserve System and protected areas in California of interest to the UC Natural Reserve system is also included.

The UC Natural Reserve System is a network of protected natural areas throughout California. Its 38 sites include more than 750,000 acres, making it the largest university-administered reserve system in the world. Most major state ecosystems are represented, from coastal tidepools to inland deserts, and lush wetlands to Sierra Nevada forests. The reserves also serve as a gateway to more than a million acres of public lands. Founded in 1965 to provide undisturbed environments for research, education, and public service, the Natural Reserve System contributes to the understanding and wise stewardship of the earth.

33.46 linear feet (29 boxes)

Copyright Unknown: Some materials in these collections may be protected by the U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17, U.S.C.). In addition, the reproduction, and/or commercial use, of some materials may be restricted by gift or purchase agreements, donor restrictions, privacy and publicity rights, licensing agreement(s), and/or trademark rights. Distribution or reproduction of materials protected by copyright beyond that allowed by fair use requires the written permission of the copyright owners. To the extent other restrictions apply, permission for distribution or reproduction from the applicable rights holder is also required. Responsibility for obtaining permissions, and for any use rests exclusively with the user.

A portion of the collection is open for research. The 2023 accrual is unprocessed. Please contact Special Collections & University Archives regarding the availability of materials for research use.