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ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Tucson, Arizona » SWRC » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #125113
Title: RANGE SPACE: A COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH FOR REGIONAL RANGELAND MANAGEMENT 1385

Author
item Moran, Mary
item ORR, B. - UNIV. OF AIRZ.
item QI, JIAGUO - MICHIGN STATE UNIV.
item Heilman, Philip - Phil

Submitted to: American Society of Agronomy
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/8/2001
Publication Date: 11/1/2001
Citation: Moran, M.S., Orr, B., Qi, J., Heilman, P. 2001. Range space: a comprehensive approach for regional rangeland. [abstract]. Am. Soc. of Agron., Annual Meetings, Charlotte, NC, Oct. 8-12, 2001.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Range Space is a consortium of research and extension scientists dedicated to assembling, developing and disseminating science-based tools to help ranchers remain competitive and manage for a wider set of products. RangeSpace research synthesizes three developing technologies -- remote sensing, simulation modeling and decision support systems -- to develop a product line suited to the needs of range managers. The user-identified products include land cover, grassland forage and fuel load, grassland phenology, range erosion potential and a vegetation forecasting tool. RangeSpace extension to users is based on a "high tech high touch" approach that integrates a Web-based system of product delivery with the informal information exchange among traditional used by producers. Information exchange will be centered on a Stakeholder Advisory Committee in each state that includes "early adopter" extension agents and producers who will verify operational products and expose the general producer community to their potential. Product introduction, user verification, and training will be conducted in conjunction with organizations currently involved in rangeland monitoring workshops like ASA and Society for Range Management (SRM). By focusing attention on problem areas and reducing uncertainties for rangeland managers, this project could make the difference for economically stressed ranchers.