The mission of the Natural Reserve System is to contribute to the understanding and wise management of the Earth and its natural systems by supporting university-level teaching, research, and public service at protected natural areas throughout California. UC Santa Barbara manages seven diverse reserves including the Santa Cruz Island Reserve. This reserve was established to provide access, assistance, and facilities to researchers and classes for studies of archaeology, marine and terrestrial biology, geography, and geology of the northern Channel Islands, with special emphasis on the Santa Cruz Island. Gifts to the Santa Cruz Island Reserve contribute to the understanding and wise management of the Earth and its natural systems.