Santa Rosa Island Research Station

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Santa Rosa Island Research Station

For questions related to SRIRS, qualified trip inquiries, or more info contact: [email protected]

The California State University Channel Islands (CI) Santa Rosa Island Research Station (SRIRS) seeks to cultivate a diverse community of scholars and initiate innovative resource management solutions by supporting research, education, and outreach programs across disciplines.

08/27/2026

Seabirds (genus Larus occidentalis) are a familiar part of life along the Channel Islands, often seen soaring over the water, resting near shore, or perching along coastal structures.

These birds depend on healthy marine ecosystems for food and nesting habitat. Because many seabirds are closely connected to ocean conditions, their presence can also help scientists better understand changes in the marine environment.

A sunset view like this is beautiful, but it is also a reminder that island wildlife is active all around us.

Image Description: Seabirds perched on a railing at sunset with the ocean and distant island landscape in the background.

08/22/2026

Dolphins (genus Delphinus delphis) are often seen riding the waves created by boats!

This behavior, known as bow riding, allows dolphins to move through the water using the pressure wave made by a vessel. It can help them conserve energy while traveling, and it also gives researchers and visitors a memorable glimpse into the agility and social behavior of these marine mammals.

The waters surrounding the Channel Islands are part of a rich marine ecosystem that supports whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions, seabirds, and so much more.

Channel Islands National Park CSU Channel Islands

Image Description: A dolphin leaping alongside a boat wake in the waters near the Channel Islands.

08/20/2026

Protecting Santa Rosa Island means caring for the landscape long after a wildfire has passed. Following a fire, hillsides become much more vulnerable to erosion, especially during rain events. To help stabilize the soil and protect downstream habitats, restoration crews install erosion-control measures like the ones shown here while native plants begin their recovery.

Biosecurity isn’t only about preventing new invasive species from arriving. It’s also about giving native ecosystems the best chance to recover without additional stress. Healthy, resilient landscapes are better equipped to resist invasive species, support wildlife, and continue the slow but remarkable process of natural regeneration.

Every step taken to protect these fragile environments helps ensure Santa Rosa Island’s unique ecosystems can thrive for generations to come.

Channel Islands National Park

Image description: A burned hillside on Santa Rosa Island with erosion-control structures installed across the slope to stabilize soil and support post-fire ecosystem recovery.

08/15/2026

This isn’t just fog. Along California’s coast, it’s part of a natural system that helps shape island ecosystems.

Marine layer fog provides vital source of moisture during California’s dry summer months, helping many native plants survive when rainfall is scarce. These cool, misty conditions also influence temperatures, wildlife activity, and the unique habitats found across the Channel Islands.

Would you rather explore Santa Rosa Island under clear blue skies or a blanket of coastal fog?

Channel Islands National Park CSU Channel Islands

Image Description: Panoramic view across Santa Rosa Island with a low blanket of coastal fog in the distance.

08/08/2026

Think these cliffs look like they belong on another planet? That’s the power of wind and water.

Over thousands of years, waves, ocean spray, and coastal winds have carved the sandstone along Santa Rosa Island into dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and hidden coves. The coastline is constantly changing, reminding us that landscapes are always a work in progress.

Sometimes the best artist is nature itself. If you coils explore one feature, would you choose the sea caves, the cliffs, or the hidden coves?

Channel Islands National Park CSU Channel Islands

Image Description: Sandstone cliffs surrounding a small cove with turquoise ocean water.

08/04/2026

This fishing lure and rusted hook may seem small, but marine debris comes in all shapes and sizes.

Lost or discarded fishing gear is one of the most common types of debris found along coastlines worldwide. Even after it’s no longer being used, hooks, fishing line, and lures can continue to entangle wildlife and pose hazards for years.

By documenting and removing these items during beach cleanups, researchers help reduce risks to marine life while collecting valuable data about the types of marine debris washing ashore on the Channel Islands.

National Marine Sanctuary Foundation Channel Islands National Park NOAA Marine Debris Program The Nature Conservancy in CA

Image Description: A rusted fishing hook, lure, and field tool collected during marine debris monitoring.

08/01/2026

Santa Rosa Island’s spring landscapes can burst into color thanks to spectacular wildflower blooms.

Seasonal rainfall and favorable growing conditions support a wide variety of native plants, creating vibrant displays that benefit pollinators and other wildlife.

These blooms are an important part of island ecosystems and contribute to the incredible biodiversity found throughout the Channel Islands.

Which wildflower would you be most excited to spot on the trail?

Channel Islands National Park CSU Channel Islands Santa Barbara Botanic Garden

Image Description: Researcher standing on a trail surrounded by blooming yellow wildflowers on Santa Rosa Island.

07/30/2026

Not every insect belongs on Santa Rosa Island. Even the smallest non-native insect can unintentionally arrive on boots, backpacks, clothing, equipment, or building materials and once established, invasive species can compete with native wildlife, damage sensitive habitats, and disrupt ecosystems that have evolved in isolation for thousands of years.

That’s why biosecurity is everyone’s responsibility! Before traveling to the island, take a few extra minutes to inspect your clothing and gear, remove seeds, insects, and soil, and make sure equipment is clean before boarding. These simple actions help protect one of California’s most unique island ecosystems and the incredible native species that call it home.

Every careful step helps keep Santa Rosa Island thriving.

Channel Islands National Park

Image description: A close-up photograph of vegetation with an arthropod web illustrates how small organisms can easily go unnoticed and potentially be transported to new environments.

07/28/2026

Just steps from the water on Stearns Wharf, the Sea Center from the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History offers hands-on marine science experiences for curious minds of every age. Explore interactive exhibits, discover local marine life, learn about the incredible ecosystems of the Santa Barbara Channel, and connect with the same ocean that surrounds the Channel Islands. It’s a wonderful destination for families, students, educators, and anyone who loves asking, “What’s living beneath the waves?”

Whether you’re preparing for an island adventure or simply looking to learn more about California’s coastal ecosystems, the Sea Center is a fantastic place to dive into ocean science.

Plan your visit:
https://www.sbnature.org/visit/sea-center

CSU Channel Islands SB Museum of Natural History

Image description: Visitors explore interactive marine science exhibits inside the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History Sea Center on Stearns Wharf.

07/23/2026

This researcher is examining an Island Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer) during fieldwork on Santa Rosa Island.

Gopher snakes are non-venomous reptiles that play an important role in island ecosystems by helping regulate rodent populations. Researchers study these snakes to better understand their ecology, behavior, and conservation needs.

Collaborative research helps scientists learn more about the unique wildlife that calls the Channel Islands home.

Learn more about researcher Greg Pauly and his work: https://nhm.org/person/pauly-greg?page=0

Channel Islands National Park Natural History Museum of L.A.

Image Description: Researcher carefully holding an Island Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer) during fieldwork on Santa Rosa Island.

Address

1 University Drive
Camarillo, CA
93012

Telephone

+18054371653

Website

http://www.csuci.edu/sri/

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