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Title: Characterizing Wyoming ranching operations: natural resource goals, management practices and information sources

Author
item Kachergis, Emily
item Derner, Justin
item ROCHE, LESLIE - University Of California
item TATE, KEN - University Of California
item LUBELL, MARK - University Of California
item MEALOR, RACHEL - University Of Wyoming
item MAGAGNA, JIM - Wyoming Stock Growers Association

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/17/2012
Publication Date: 1/24/2013
Citation: Kachergis, E.J., Derner, J.D., Roche, L., Tate, K., Lubell, M., Mealor, R., Magagna, J. 2013. Characterizing Wyoming ranching operations: natural resource goals, management practices and information sources. In: Proceedings Society for Range Management Strategic grazing management for complex adaptive systems. November 29-30, 2012. p. 3.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Spanning 60 million acres, Wyoming rangelands produce food and provide other vital ecosystem services. However, the decision-making process of the ranchers who steward these lands is complex and poorly understood. In cooperation with the Wyoming Stock Growers Association (WSGA)—a predominant agricultural organization in the state—we asked WSGA producer members about their goals, ranching operation characteristics, and management practices via a mail survey. This poster highlights results from the 307 ranchers (50%) who responded. Key findings showcase the diversity of Wyoming ranching operations, suggest synergies between production and conservation goals and strategies, and recommend a multi-pronged approach to outreach.