Range Manager

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Work Tasks

RANGE MANAGERS manage, improve, and protect rangelands to maximize their use without damaging the environment. They research range problems to provide forage for livestock and wildlife. They develop better ways for range reseeding, and plan revegetation of disturbed areas. They study forage plants to find varieties best suited to a certain range. They study rangeland grazing and advise ranchers on the number, kinds of animals, and the best season to graze. They evaluate water supply and types of vegetation available, take soil samples, and estimate the number of wildlife. They plan and direct range improvements such as reservoirs for watering livestock, and fencing and corrals.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $66,500 average per year ($32.00 per hour)
• A small occupation (18,900 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.2% per year)

Entry Requirements

A bachelor's degree in range management or science is the minimum education required for RANGE MANAGERS. Graduate degrees generally are required for teaching and research positions. Specialized range management courses combine plant, animal, and soil sciences with principles of ecology and resource management. Desirable electives include economics, forestry, hydrology, agronomy, wildlife, animal husbandry, recreation, and computer science. Voluntary certification is available from the Society of Range Management for those who meet the criteria.