Lacawac Sanctuary was founded by L. Arthur Watres and his mother Isabel Reyburn Watres, both dedicated conservationists. They envisioned the Sanctuary as a "living laboratory" aimed at fostering scientific research and educating the next generation of scientists. Their commitment was to conservation and the promotion of understanding natural resources.
The Isabel & Arthur Watres Student Research Fund (WSRF) at Lacawac Sanctuary provides financial support to undergraduate students conducting research on the biological or physical natural resources of Lacawac Sanctuary. The grant prioritizes funding for costs associated with residence and/or research user fees at Lacawac, with the possibility of extending support to research supplies or materials if budget permits. Awards typically range from $200-$300, up to a maximum of $500, with applications accepted on a rolling basis until all funds are allocated for the year.