biological reserves can only be accessed for purposes of scientific research and environmental education. schools, universities, and other institutions, or professionals in the fields of research and education can access these reserves by requesting authorization.

typically, scientific research in these conservation units is done by universities, research institutions, environmental organizations, or government offices.

as rio de janeiro state is home to over 10% of all endangered species of brazil, the local biological reserves are of great importance, and they are either managed by the state government or by the federal government.