Advance loon science.
Protect what matters.
Become a Loon Research Ambassador
The Loon Research Ambassador Program gives you a direct way to support and engage in critical loon research across North America. At a time when loons face increasing threats—from changing water clarity to climate pressures and habitat loss, your involvement helps fund the science needed to protect them. In 2026, the National Loon Center and our partners launched high-impact research initiatives across the United States and Canada.
Loon Research Ambassador Tiers
- Contribute to support various projects, such as loon surveys or necropsy exams in 2026
- Opportunity to join a Loon Research Tour on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes for ambassadors.
- Recognition on the National Loon Center’s website, in official communications, and within the visitor center, The Nest.
- Direct your investment to the 2026 research project that matters most to you.
- Receive updates on project progress and a free copy of Dr. James Paruk’s book Loon Lessons: Uncommon Encounters with the Great Northern Diver.
- Opportunity to join a Loon Research Tour on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes for ambassadors.
- Recognition on a Loon Research Ambassador plaque or panel (TBD) in the Center.
- Direct your investment to the 2026 research project that matters most to you.
- Receive updates on project progress and a high-quality framed loon print.
- Recognition on the interior Loon Donor Wall (final name TBD).
- Opportunity to join a Loon Research Tour on the Whitefish Chain of Lakes for ambassadors.
- Create a lasting impact through a five-year sponsorship of an interactive research exhibit at the future National Loon Center.
- Direct your investment to the 2026 research project that matters most to you.
- Receive updates on project progress and a high-quality framed loon print.
- Recognition on the interior Loon Donor Wall (final name TBD).
- Invitation to a grand opening event for the future National Loon Center facility.
2026 Research Projects
Common Loon Translocation Assessment – Minnesota | National Loon Center
This project will assess the effectiveness of Common Loon chick translocations to restore breeding adults in southern Minnesota via surveys in southern and northern MN counties.
Common Loon Genoscape | Bird Genoscape Lab, Colorado State University
The genoscape lab uses cutting-edge genomic tools to analyze genetic variation across individual loons from across their range, connecting breeding and wintering populations.
Addressing key knowledge gaps in a potential source (or sink) population of Common Loon populations East of the Continental Divide in Montana | Glacier National Park
The park will test methods to extract genetic information from egg membranes within Glacier National Park and the adjacent Blackfeet Tribal Lands, expanding partnerships with the Blackfeet Nation.
Investigating the effects of water clarity on Common Loon productivity across the breeding range | Birds Canada
A scientific publication will examine the indirect effects of climate change on Common Loons by investigating the impacts of declining water clarity from rain events across their southern range.
Engaging Northern Québec Communities in Loon Conservation and Lake Stewardship | QuébecOiseaux
Expand monitoring coverage by recruiting new volunteers, especially First Nations communities, in northern Québec in the Canadian Lakes Loon Survey.
How Wintering Strategy Affects Diet and Causes of Mortality in Common Loons | Tulane University
This innovative research will develop ways to test loons’ feathers to determine wintering habitats (marine vs. freshwater) and diet.
Developing improved tools for understanding Common Loon anatomy and performing necropsies | Tufts University
The development of an e-book and video on Common Loon anatomy and necropsy techniques will aid the international loon research & educational communities.
“Dark of the Loon”: Nonbreeding Life-History, Ecology, and Mortality | Independent Biologist
A scientific publication will pull together data from a 5-year intermittent study of Common Loon northern migration over the Florida Gulf Coast.
Bringing Loon Science to Life
Your support does more than fund research—it helps bring it to life. Inside the future National Loon Center, visitors will explore:
- Interactive research and learning stations
- Real-time conservation stories and data
- The science behind loon migration, health, and habitat
Your investment connects people to science—and inspires the next generation of conservation.
Honoring Those Who Lead the Way
Ambassadors at leadership levels are recognized on the Loon Donor Wall, a signature feature in the Center’s lobby inspired by the striking feather pattern of the loon.
This interactive display shares the stories of those making loon conservation possible.
Thank You
Your generosity drives research, expands education, and protects loons across North America. We invite you to be part of this work.
Questions? We’d be happy to connect.
218-692-LOON (5666) | info@nationallooncenter.org