NORTHWEST SCIENCE

Scope & Guideline

Cultivating knowledge for a sustainable future in environmental sciences.

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of NORTHWEST SCIENCE with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0029-344x
PublisherNORTHWEST SCIENTIFIC ASSOC
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Converge1975, from 1977 to 2024
AbbreviationNORTHWEST SCI / Northwest Sci.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressJEFFREY DUDA, USGS, WESTERN FISHERIES RES CTR, 6505 NE 65 ST, SEATTLE, WA 98115

Aims and Scopes

NORTHWEST SCIENCE is dedicated to advancing the understanding of scientific principles and ecological dynamics within the Pacific Northwest region. The journal emphasizes research that informs conservation efforts, ecological restoration, and natural resource management, while fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among scientists, policymakers, and the public.
  1. Ecological Research and Biodiversity:
    The journal focuses on studies that assess and document biodiversity, including species distribution, habitat preferences, and ecological interactions within the Pacific Northwest. This includes both flora and fauna, with an emphasis on threatened and endemic species.
  2. Environmental Impact Studies:
    Research published in NORTHWEST SCIENCE often evaluates the effects of human activities, such as dam removal, urbanization, and agricultural practices, on local ecosystems. This includes studies on habitat restoration, species recovery, and the resilience of ecosystems to anthropogenic changes.
  3. Climate Change and Ecological Responses:
    The journal explores how climate change impacts ecological dynamics, including species migration, phenology, and habitat alteration. Studies may include long-term monitoring and modeling of ecological responses to changing climatic conditions.
  4. Cultural and Historical Ecology:
    NORTHWEST SCIENCE recognizes the importance of cultural perspectives in ecological research, often publishing papers that explore the intersection of ecological science with indigenous knowledge and historical land use practices.
  5. Conservation Strategies and Management Policies:
    The journal addresses conservation efforts and policy implications by publishing research that informs sustainable management practices and policy decisions for natural resources in the Pacific Northwest.
NORTHWEST SCIENCE has experienced notable shifts in research themes, with several emerging trends reflecting the current ecological and environmental priorities of the Pacific Northwest. These trends indicate a dynamic response to both scientific advancements and pressing environmental issues.
  1. Ecological Restoration and Management:
    There is a growing emphasis on research that addresses ecological restoration techniques and their effectiveness. This includes studies on habitat restoration following disturbances, such as dam removals and wildfire recovery, reflecting an urgent need for actionable conservation strategies.
  2. Impact of Climate Change on Ecosystems:
    Research exploring the impacts of climate change on species distributions, ecological interactions, and habitat changes is increasingly prominent. This includes studies on phenological shifts and adaptive management practices to mitigate climate-related challenges.
  3. Urban Ecology and Human-Wildlife Interactions:
    With urbanization on the rise, studies examining the dynamics of urban ecosystems and the interactions between wildlife and humans are gaining traction. This includes assessments of biodiversity in urban settings and the effects of urban development on local species.
  4. Aquatic Ecosystems and Freshwater Biodiversity:
    There is a notable increase in research focusing on freshwater ecosystems, particularly concerning fish communities, aquatic plants, and the impacts of hydrological changes. This trend highlights the importance of freshwater biodiversity in the Pacific Northwest.
  5. Integrative Approaches to Conservation:
    Research that integrates ecological, social, and economic perspectives in conservation planning is becoming more common. This reflects a holistic understanding of the complexities involved in managing natural resources and fostering sustainable practices.

Declining or Waning

As the focus of research evolves, certain themes within NORTHWEST SCIENCE have shown a decline in prominence over recent years. These waning scopes reflect shifts in research priorities or emerging challenges that may have overshadowed previous interests.
  1. Traditional Taxonomy Studies:
    Research focused solely on traditional taxonomic classifications has decreased. While taxonomy remains important, there is a growing trend towards integrative approaches that combine genetic, ecological, and behavioral studies, leading to less emphasis on classic taxonomic descriptions.
  2. Historical Ecology Without Modern Context:
    Papers that solely focus on historical ecological conditions without integrating contemporary ecological challenges or management implications are less frequent. There is a shift towards research that links historical data with current environmental issues and conservation strategies.
  3. Generalist Studies of Common Species:
    Research on common or widely distributed species has declined, as there is a stronger focus on conservation concerns for threatened and unique species that require immediate attention and resources.
  4. Purely Descriptive Studies:
    There is a noticeable reduction in purely descriptive ecological studies that do not offer insights into management or conservation actions. The journal is increasingly prioritizing research that provides actionable recommendations based on ecological findings.

Similar Journals

ANIMAL CONSERVATION

Advancing Knowledge to Safeguard Our Planet's Biodiversity.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1367-9430Frequency: 6 issues/year

Animal Conservation is a prestigious journal that serves as a vital platform for the dissemination of research dedicated to the preservation of wildlife and habitats. Published by Wiley, this journal has established a significant presence in the fields of Ecology and Nature and Landscape Conservation, holding a distinguished Q1 category ranking for both in 2023. With an impressive Scopus rank of #25 in the realm of environmental science, it caters to a global audience keen on understanding and addressing pressing conservation issues. The journal provides researchers, professionals, and students with high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that explore innovative methods and strategies in animal conservation. With its continuous publication since 1998, encompassing a comprehensive range of topics, Animal Conservation is indispensable for anyone aiming to make impactful contributions to the field of ecology and conservation biology.

Ecological Solutions and Evidence

Championing global discourse for environmental solutions.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: Frequency: 4 issues/year

Ecological Solutions and Evidence, published by WILEY, stands as a leading platform in the field of ecology, environmental science, and sustainability, with a commendable reputation starting from its inception in 2020. Operating under rigorous academic standards, this journal has achieved notable distinctions by securing a Q1 category ranking in Ecology, Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law, and Nature and Landscape Conservation, making it an invaluable resource for researchers seeking to address pressing environmental challenges. With a current impact factor reflective of its influential articles, the journal features an international scope, focusing on innovative solutions derived from empirical evidence. Accessible to a global audience, the journal encourages open discourse in the field, further supporting researchers, professionals, and students striving to foster ecological sustainability and informed policy-making. Published in the United Kingdom, it aims to bridge the gap between science and application in real-world contexts, promoting actionable insights and interdisciplinary collaboration.

WETLANDS ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT

Illuminating the dynamics of aquatic ecosystems for a sustainable future.
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 0923-4861Frequency: 6 issues/year

Wetlands Ecology and Management, published by Springer, is an esteemed journal that has been advancing the field of wetland studies since its inception in 1982. Operating under the ISSN 0923-4861 and E-ISSN 1572-9834, this journal is headquartered in the Netherlands and serves as a critical resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. It fosters interdisciplinary dialogue among aquatic science, ecology, and resource management disciplines, ranking in the Q2 category for Aquatic Science and Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics as of 2023. With a notable Scopus ranking, it is positioned favorably within the 65th percentile in Ecology and a commendable 58th percentile in Aquatic Sciences. The journal emphasizes the importance of effective management strategies and policies in the conservation of wetlands, making it indispensable for those aiming to drive impactful research. Although it is not an open-access journal, its high-quality publications remain accessible through library consortia and institutional subscriptions, ensuring that pertinent insights into the ecological dynamics and sustainable management practices are available to the global research community.

JOURNAL FOR NATURE CONSERVATION

Connecting Research and Practice in Nature Conservation
Publisher: ELSEVIER GMBHISSN: 1617-1381Frequency: 6 issues/year

JOURNAL FOR NATURE CONSERVATION, published by Elsevier GmbH, serves as a pivotal platform for the dissemination of applied and theoretical research in the fields of ecology, nature, and landscape conservation. With an ISSN of 1617-1381 and an E-ISSN of 1618-1093, this esteemed journal has earned a notable reputation, ranking in the Q2 category for both Ecology and Nature and Landscape Conservation in 2023. It is indexed in Scopus with commendable rankings, including #67/211 in Environmental Science - Nature and Landscape Conservation, highlighting its significance within the academic community. The journal’s diverse scope captures the complexities of environmental challenges and offers insights beneficial to researchers, conservationists, and policymakers dedicated to preserving biodiversity and facilitating sustainable practices. Situated in Munich, Germany, the journal has continuously contributed valuable knowledge since its inception in 1991, making it an essential resource for those committed to advancing conservation efforts on a global scale.

AFRICAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY

Connecting Research and Conservation in Africa
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0141-6707Frequency: 4 issues/year

The African Journal of Ecology, published by Wiley, is a leading academic journal in the field of Ecology, Evolution, Behavior, and Systematics. Established in 1963 and continuing its vital contributions to the field until 2024, this journal serves as a premier platform for researchers and scholars to share groundbreaking studies that explore the intricate relationships within ecosystems, particularly in the African context. With an impressive Scopus Rank of #423 out of 721 and a Q3 Quartile ranking, it stands as a credible source of scholarly information, gaining recognition among peers for its rigorous peer-review process and impactful publications. While the journal is not open access, it remains influential in driving advancements in ecological research and providing insights vital for conservation efforts and biodiversity studies. Authors and readers alike will find that the African Journal of Ecology not only promotes scientific inquiry but also fosters a deeper understanding of ecological dynamics that affect our world.

PACIFIC CONSERVATION BIOLOGY

Connecting researchers to safeguard our planet's ecological treasures.
Publisher: CSIRO PUBLISHINGISSN: 1038-2097Frequency: 4 issues/year

PACIFIC CONSERVATION BIOLOGY is an esteemed academic journal published by CSIRO PUBLISHING, dedicated to advancing research in the fields of ecology and nature conservation. With a strong focus on the unique challenges and biodiversity of the Pacific region, this journal serves as a crucial platform for researchers, conservationists, and students alike to disseminate high-quality, impactful findings. Operating from Australia, it has become a significant resource since its inception in 1993, navigating through nearly three decades of vital scholarly communication. Ranked in the Q2 category for both Ecology and Nature and Landscape Conservation as of 2023, PACIFIC CONSERVATION BIOLOGY maintains rigorous standards, as reflected in its successful Scopus rankings. The journal plays a pivotal role in addressing pressing ecological issues and fostering innovative conservation strategies, making it an essential reference for anyone involved in environmental science. Access options for the journal facilitate widespread distribution of knowledge, supporting the mission to promote informed decision-making in conservation practices.

ECOSCIENCE

Elevating discussions on biodiversity and environmental practices.
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS INCISSN: 1195-6860Frequency: 4 issues/year

ECOSCIENCE, published by Taylor & Francis Inc, stands as a prominent journal in the fields of Ecology and Environmental Science, recognized for its commitment to advancing knowledge since its inception in 1994. With an ISSN of 1195-6860 and an E-ISSN of 2376-7626, the journal caters to a diverse audience of researchers, professionals, and students passionate about ecological and environmental issues. In 2023, it achieved Q2 and Q3 rankings in the Scopus category of Ecology and Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, reflecting its significance within the academic community. Moreover, ECOSCIENCE occupies notable positions in Scopus rankings, including Rank #324 in Agricultural and Biological Sciences and Rank #210 in Environmental Science, symbolizing its role as a catalyst for disseminating high-quality research. Although currently not open access, the journal's multifaceted scope encourages in-depth discussions on ecological diversity, conservation strategies, and sustainable practices, making it an invaluable resource for those engaged in ecological research and practice.

Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management

Innovating wildlife management for a sustainable tomorrow.
Publisher: U S FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICEISSN: 1944-687XFrequency: 2 issues/year

The Journal of Fish and Wildlife Management, published by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, serves as a vital resource for scholars, researchers, and professionals in the fields of Animal Science, Ecology, and Conservation Biology. With its ISSN 1944-687X, this esteemed journal has been disseminating critical research findings since 2010, contributing significantly to the understanding of fish and wildlife conservation practices and their ecological impacts. Despite its Q3 category rankings in various disciplines as of 2023, it provides a platform for innovative research that influences policy and management strategies for biodiversity conservation. The journal, although not open access, remains committed to advancing the scientific discourse surrounding wildlife management with articles that emphasize practical conservation efforts and ecological sustainability. Readers can expect a diverse range of articles that promote best practices in the management and conservation of fish and wildlife resources, furthering our collective mission of preserving ecological health and biodiversity for future generations.

NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF MARINE AND FRESHWATER RESEARCH

Championing Ecological Research for Tomorrow's Challenges
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0028-8330Frequency: 4 issues/year

NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF MARINE AND FRESHWATER RESEARCH, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, stands as a distinguished platform for the dissemination of innovative research in the realms of aquatic science and ecology. With an ISSN of 0028-8330 and E-ISSN 1175-8805, this journal has been curating significant scientific contributions since its inception in 1967, continuing through to 2024. Recognized in the Q2 category across multiple relevant fields—including Aquatic Science, Ecology, and Water Science—this journal ranks notably in Scopus, with a 74th percentile for Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics, highlighting its impact and relevance within the scientific community. Though not an open-access publication, its rigorous peer-reviewed articles offer insights that resonate with researchers, professionals, and students who are passionate about advancing our understanding of freshwater and marine ecosystems. By fostering a collaborative space for ecological and environmental inquiries, the NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF MARINE AND FRESHWATER RESEARCH is essential for those aiming to contribute to the vital conversations around biodiversity, conservation, and sustainable management of aquatic resources.

RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY

Fostering Interdisciplinary Dialogue in Ecological Science
Publisher: PLEIADES PUBLISHING INCISSN: 1067-4136Frequency: 6 issues/year

RUSSIAN JOURNAL OF ECOLOGY, published by PLEIADES PUBLISHING INC, stands as a critical resource within the field of ecology, offering an array of research insights that span various ecological topics. With an ISSN of 1067-4136 and an E-ISSN of 1608-3334, this journal has been consistently disseminating knowledge since its inception in 1996, now converging towards 2024. Despite its current Q4 ranking in the Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics category, the journal has carved out a niche in the publication landscape, particularly for scholars focused on the rich and diverse ecological phenomena of Russia and surrounding territories. The journal aims to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation by providing a platform for the dissemination of high-quality research. While it currently lacks open access options, readers can expect in-depth studies and analytical discourses that contribute meaningfully to the global understanding of ecological systems. With an impressive Scopus rank, this journal remains an important outlet for researchers, professionals, and students committed to advancing ecological science.