Semi-Annual Wildlife and Field Research Site Inspections
Due to recent changes in OLAW and AAALAC requirements, the 91次元 is currently developing policies and procedures for conducting semi-annual inspections of field research sites. These changes will be addressed and finalized within the next 6–12 months.
We welcome input from investigators and research staff as we shape these policies. Your thoughts and ideas are important—if you would like to participate in the process, please contact the IACUC Manager at [insert email/phone].
All wildlife and field research activities must comply with applicable regulations and oversight from the institutional IACUC, OLAW, USDA, and AAALAC. Field sites, regardless of location, may be subject to inspection or review to ensure adherence to approved protocols and animal welfare standards.
How will Field Site Inspections be performed?
Unlike laboratory facilities, field research sites are often temporary or remote. Therefore, the UM IACUC can/may use a risk-based inspection approach:
- Pre-approval site description – Protocols must clearly describe the study site(s), housing/holding equipment (if any), and capture/handling methods.
- Risk assessment – The IACUC will evaluate potential risks to animal welfare, personnel safety, and environmental impact.
- Targeted inspections – When animals are held for more than 12 hours, or when procedures occur at a defined field station, the IACUC may conduct on-site inspections.
- Remote documentation – For highly mobile or short-term studies, investigators may be required to submit photos, schematics, or videos of traps, enclosures, or handling setups in place of in-person inspections.