What We Do
The Western Ranch Management and Ecosystem Stewardship Program, hosted by the Warner College of Natural Resources at Colorado State University, is a developing academic and research initiative aimed at addressing today’s challenges of ranching in a rapidly changing world. Our program is founded on understanding the diverse ecosystems that define western landscapes, and the natural resources and processes that support ranching communities. We work closely with ranch owners, managers and stakeholders to identify education and research needs specific to the Rocky Mountain West. Ranches serve as the classroom and laboratory so students can learn by hands-on experience, interact with practitioners, and see first-hand the strategies used to keep working lands sustainable.
News
- Quivira Coalition Podcast Features the Western Ranch Management and Ecosystem Stewardship Program
We sat down with host of the Quivira Coalition’s Regeneration Rising podcast, Taylor Muglia, to talk details of the Western Ranch Management and Ecosystem Stewardship Program and options beginning agrarians might have for further education. We discuss the Summer Field Course, the importance of learning alongside peers of diverse specialties, and how to think about the “flavors” of grad school to choose the right path for you. Access the podcast here.
- 2023 Summer Field Course Dates Announced
The Ranch Management and Stewardship Field Course will be held from July 17 to August 9, 2023 (with a break from July 27 – 30). The course is open both to students enrolled in the Western Ranch Management and Ecosystem Stewardship masters specialization and students and non-students outside of the program. See the Education page for more information about this exciting and immersive class. Contact Tony Vorster (anthony.vorster@colostate.edu) for more information about enrolling.
- Grants received to research virtual fencing
The WRMES program has received support from the CSU One Health Institute and The Nature Conservancy to research virtual fencing adoption and uses. One project is working with ranchers to understand the opportunities, challenges, and information gaps with this emerging technology. Another project is evaluating the ecological impacts of virtual fencing enabled grazing practices
- Accepting Applications for the Western Ranch Management and Ecosystem Stewardship specialization
We are accepting applications for the Western Ranch Management and Ecosystem Stewardship specialization within the Master of Natural Resources Stewardship program. Applications are due by April 1 to begin this summer. See the Education page for curriculum and course requirements. You can read more about this program on CSU Source: CSU launches new multi-disciplinary ranch management program.