Bachelor of Science - Rangeland Ecology & Management

The Rangeland Ecology & Management major is offered through the Departments of Natural Resources and Environmental Science (NRES) and Agriculture, Nutrition & Veterinary Science (ANVS). The curriculum provides a solid, interdisciplinary foundation for science-based decision making in natural resource management. Students will acquire a strong background in basic sciences (e.g., biology, chemistry, and mathematics) and in courses addressing critical issues in vegetation ecology and management, sustainability and restoration of rangeland resources, watershed integrity, wildlife habitat, forage use, , and conservation of natural ecosystems. This major is designed for those students interested in pursuing skills and careers focused on the ecology, use, restoration, and management of rangeland ecosystems and natural resources.

On rangeland the vegetation is predominantly grasses, grass-like plants, forbs (wildflowers), or shrubs. It includes lands revegetated naturally or artificially that are managed like native vegetation. Rangelands include grasslands, shrublands, woodlands, savannahs, tundra, most deserts, and riparian and wetland plant communities including marshes and wet meadows. The curriculum provides a solid, interdisciplinary foundation for science-based decision making in rangeland management along with an appreciation for the diverse cultural setting for management decisions.

Graduating seniors are prepared for graduate study or may enter employment with state and federal agencies, private landowners or other firms, and non-profit organizations that own, study, restore, use and manage rangelands. Students should qualify under the federal US Office of Personnel Management and should consult the website at www.opm.gov/qualifications/sec-iii/a/0400-ndx.htm. The ecological assessment, restoration, conservation and sustainable management of rangeland resources are growing areas of state, regional, national, and international priority. Hence, the employment outlook is extremely promising for students interested in working for state and federal agencies, private or consulting firms and non-profit organizations that address these issues or own and manage rangelands.

What kind of salary do rangeland ecology and management grads earn?
      In 2010, the median annual income nationwide for conservation scientists was $59,310 (Bureau of Labor Statistics).

What kind of classes should I be taking in high school?
     High School students interested in the ecology and management of rangeland resources should take at least one year each of biology and chemistry, and mathematics through second year algebra and trigonometry. English courses that emphasize writing skills are strongly recommended. Any deficiencies in preparatory classes must be remedied during the first year at University of Nevada, Reno.

Dr. Barry Perryman, Associate Professor, Faculty Advisor
Phone: (775) 784-1265
e-mail: bperryman@cabnr.unr.edu
Office: 232a Max Fleischmann Agriculture Building, UNR Main Campus

Dr. Sherman Swanson, Associate Professor, Faculty Advisor
Phone: (775) 784-4057
e-mail: sswanson@cabnr.unr.edu
Office: 241 Max Fleischmann Ag Bldg, UNR Campus