Welcome to
Texas Ecological Laboratory
Partnering with landowners throughout Texas to improve the environment.
The Ecological Laboratory ("Eco Lab") Program provides researchers with access to private land for ecological research in Texas. Landowners invite highly qualified researchers to carry out confidential research on their properties, and support the research via small amounts of grant funding ($5,000 - $10,000).
An Ecological Laboratory gives landowners the chance to transition into wildlife management after hosting research on their property for 5 years — without grazing or farming. This allows the property to remain pristine, and more conducive to wildlife management.
We are currently working with researchers from The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas at Tyler, The University of Texas at Arlington, Texas A&M University, Texas A&M San Antonio, Trinity University, Rice University, Texas State University, Baylor College of Medicine, and University of Houston, among others.
The Ecological Laboratory Program brought research opportunity to over 100 properties and 4 new counties in 2021.
The Ecological Laboratory Program is now accepting proposals from researchers who are interested in participating in the program in 2023. Properties from 2021, 2022 and the new 2023 properties are available for research commencing January 1, 2023. The deadline to submit a proposal to do research in 2023 is October 10, 2022.
Landowners have an opportunity to learn unique things about their properties, and allow their properties to remain in a natural state prior to Wildlife Management.
The Texas Ecological Laboratory program provides a positive impact on the environment. Effective stewardship of land can provide a resurgence of wildlife and plant species on the property.
University researchers can gain valuable access to private properties across Texas.
Click on the Register button and register for a Researcher's account. Once you have successfully registered on the website, go to "Submit an Application" under "Researcher Tasks" and submit an application to perform research on selected properties. You will be able to view the properties currently available for research grants, and apply to conduct research on properties that interest you.
The ecological research must be able to demonstrate a benefit to farming, ranching or wildlife management. Most researchers of natural systems find it easy to explain how they qualify.
Are you a landowner looking to reduce the property taxes on your land? Are you interested in increasing the amount of native wildlife and plant species on your property? If so, Texas Ecological Laboratory may be an ideal opportunity for you. For more information, please contact Texas Ecological Laboratory at (512)894-5426.