Research Project: Knowledge Systems and Tools to Increase the Resilience and Sustainability of Western Rangeland Agriculture

Location: Range Management Research

Publications (Clicking on the reprint icon will take you to the publication reprint.)

Estimating rangeland fractional cover and canopy gap size class with Sentinel-2 imagery - (Abstract Only)
McCord, S.E., Allred, B., Assal, T.J., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Boyd, C.S., Brooks, A.C., Cady, S.M., Duniway, M.C., Fuhledorf, S.D., Green, S.A., Harrison, G.R., Jensen, E.R., Kachergis, E.J., Knight, A.C., Mattilio, C.M., Mealor, B.A., Naugle, D.E., Oleary, D., Olsoy, P.J., Peirce, E.S., Reinhardt, J.R., Shriver, R.K., Smith, J.T., Tack, J.D., Tanner, A.M., Tanner, E.P., Twidwell, D., Webb, N.P., Morford, S.L. 2026. Estimating rangeland fractional cover and canopy gap size class with Sentinel-2 imagery. Society for Range Management Meeting Abstracts. Abstract.

Estimating grazing land acres across the contiguous United States using machine learning methods - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Hu, M., Yu, C., Zhu, Z., McCord, S.E., Metz, L.J. 2026. Estimating grazing land acres across the contiguous United States using machine learning methods. Remote Sensing. 18(7):1050. https://doi.org/10.3390/rs18071050.

A scalable, end-to-end IoT and remote sensing platform for precision rangeland and livestock management - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Bakir, M.E., Perea, A.R., Funk, M., Rahman, S., Spetter, M.J., Macon, L.K., Cox, A., Estell, R.E., Cao, H., Cibils, A.F., Spiegal, S.A., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Utsumi, S.A. 2026. A scalable, end-to-end IoT and remote sensing platform for precision rangeland and livestock management. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture. 247:Article e111615. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.compag.2026.111615.

Large-scale experimental evaluation of woody plant removal in desert grassland: Restoration, novelty, or degradation? - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Bestelmeyer, B.T., Burkett, L.M., James, D.K., Gamon, J., Schooley, R. 2026. Large-scale experimental evaluation of woody plant removal in desert grassland: Restoration, novelty, or degradation?. Ecological Applications. 36(3):e70240. https://doi.org/10.1002/eap.70240.

Differential response of Angus-Hereford and Rarámuri Criollo cattle to a dynamic feeding challenge during the training to an autonomous virtual fencing collar - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Perea, A.R., Macon, L.K., Spetter, M.J., Funk, M.P., Bakir, M., Estell, R.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Cibils, A.F., Utsumi, A.F. 2026. Differential response of Angus-Hereford and Rarámuri Criollo cattle to a dynamic feeding challenge applied during the training to an autonomous virtual fencing collar. Journal of Animal Science. 104:1-14. https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skag024.

A framework for estimating manure nitrogen balance and recycling potential for current and future conditions in the USA - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Wang, Y., Zhang, X., Spiegal, S.A., Davidson, E.A. 2026. A framework for estimating manure nitrogen balance and recycling potential for current and future conditions in the USA. Nature Food. 7:260–271. https://doi.org/10.1038/s43016-026-01312-5.

An updated Irwin sensor for measurement of surface shear velocity - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Ziegler, N., Webb, N.P., Edwards, B., Nikolich, G., Gillies, J., Patel, S., Wheeler, B.E., Zhang, P., Van Zee, J.W., Legrand, S., Trautz, A. 2025. An updated Irwin sensor for measurement of surface shear velocity. Aeolian Research. 75. Article 101024. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aeolia.2025.101024.

A common biocrust code system for use in rangeland monitoring and research - (Abstract Only)
Meadors, S.R., Reed, S., Pietrasiak, N., Condon, L., Bailey, L., Burkett, L.M., McCord, S.E. 2026. A common biocrust code system for use in rangeland monitoring and research. Society for Range Management Meeting Abstracts. Abstract.

Leveraging rangeland fractional cover technologies to advance rangeland managements - (Abstract Only)
McCord, S.E., Assal, T., Creutzburg, M., Harrison, G.R., Jensen, E., Kachergis, E., Rigge, M., Scarth, P., Zhou, B. 2025. Leveraging rangeland fractional cover technologies to advance rangeland managements. International Rangeland Congress. Abstract.

Sentinel-2 based estimates of rangeland fractional cover and canopy gap class for the western United States - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Allred, B., Mccord, S.E., Assal, T., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Boyd, C.S., Brooks, A., Cady, S., Fuhlendorf, S., Green, S., Harrison, G.R., Jensen, E., Kachergis, E., Knight, A.C., Mattilio, C., Mealor, B., Naugle, D., O'Leary, D., Olsoy, P.J., Peirce, E.S., Reinhardt, J., Shriver, R., Smith, J., Tack, J., Tanner, A., Tanner, E., Twidwell, D., Webb, N.P., Morford, S. 2025. Sentinel-2 based estimates of rangeland fractional cover and canopy gap class for the western United States. Nature. 12. Article 1889. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41597-025-6160-9.

Shrub encroachment promotes positive feedbacks from herbivores that reinforce ecosystem change - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Andreoni, K., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Schooley, R. 2025. Shrub encroachment promotes positive feedbacks from herbivores that reinforce ecosystem change. Ecosphere. 16(12):e70483. https://doi.org/10.1002/ecs2.70483.

Flowering under stress: Reproductive strategies of black grama and mesquite in a water-limited ecosystem - (Abstract Only)
Browning, D.M., Yeater, K.M., James, D.K., Baca, R.A., Denham, S.O. 2025. Flowering under stress: Reproductive strategies of black grama and mesquite in a water-limited ecosystem. American Geophysical Union Meeting Abstract. Abstract.

Integrating adaptation into production: The Sustainable Southwest Beef coordinated agricultural project - (Abstract Only)
Spiegal, S.A., Steiner, J., Duff, G., Estell, R.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T. 2025. Integrating adaptation into production: The Sustainable Southwest Beef coordinated agricultural project. Society for Range Management Meeting Abstracts. Abstract.

Tracking vegetation phenology across diverse biomes using Version 3.0 of the PhenoCam Dataset - (Abstract Only)
Young, A.M., Hufkens, K., Ballou, K.L., Javadian, M., Post, A.K., Schädel, C., Browning, D.M., Florian, C.R., Moon, M., Richardson, A.D. 2025. Tracking vegetation phenology across diverse biomes using Version 3.0 of the PhenoCam Dataset. American Geophysical Union. Abstract.

Tracking vegetation phenology across diverse biomes using Version 3.0 of the PhenoCam Dataset - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Young, A.M., Milliman, T., Hufkens, K., Ballou, K., Coffey, C., Begay, K., Fell, M., Mostafa, J., Post, A.K., Schädel, C., Vladick, Z., Zimmerman, O., Browning, D.M., Florian, C.R., Moon, M., SanClements, M.D., Seyednasrollah, B., Friedl, M.A., Richardson, A.D. 2025. Tracking vegetation phenology across diverse biomes using Version 3.0 of the PhenoCam Dataset. Earth System Science Data. 17(11):6531-6556.

Gas flux quantification of Angus x Hereford and Rarámuri Criollo cows grazing extensive arid rangelands - (Abstract Only)
Spetter, M.J., Utsumi, S.A., Andres, P.R., Funk, M., Macon, L.K., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Spiegal, S.A., Cibils, A.F., Estell, R.E. 2025. Gas flux quantification of Angus x Hereford and Rarámuri Criollo cows grazing extensive arid rangelands. Society for Range Management Meeting Abstracts. Abstract.

Low retention of added nitrogen at realistic levels of simulated nitrogen deposition in the Northern Chihuahuan Desert - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Holguin, J., McLaren, J., Darrouzet-Nardi, A. 2025. Low retention of added nitrogen at realistic levels of N deposition in the Northern Chihuahuan Desert. Soil Biology and Biochemistry. 211:109977. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.soilbio.2025.109977.

Climate adaptation in the southwest US: The SWPar4.5 parameter set for stochastic weather generators - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Fullhart, A.T., Gao, S., Wang, W., Elias, E.H., Armendariz, G.A., Goodrich, D.C. 2025. Climate adaptation in the southwest US: The SWPar4.5 parameter set for stochastic weather generators. Scientific Data. 11:Article1825.

Foundations of Virtual Fencing: Specifics on collar deployment by company - (Other)
Audoin, F., Allen, B., Antaya, A., Macon, L.K., Mulliniks, T. 2025. Foundations of Virtual Fencing: Specifics on collar deployment by company. University of Arizona Cooperative Extension. Article eaz2175.

Architecture and implementation of a Precision Ranching Platform for Rangeland and Livestock Management - (Abstract Only)
Utsumi, S.A., Bakir, M., Perea, A.R., Estell, R.E., Cibils, A.F., Cao, H., Spiegal, S.A., McCord, S.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T. 2025. Architecture and implementation of a Precision Ranching Platform for Rangeland and Livestock Management. Journal of Animal Science. Supplement.

Selection signatures in a Rarámuri Criollo cattle population introduced to the Southwestern United States - (Proceedings)
Spetter, M.J., Utsumi, S.A., Armstrong, E.M., Rodriguez-Almeida, F.A., Ross, P.J., Macon, L.K., Jara, E., Cox, A., Perea, A.R., Funk, M., Redd, M., Cibils, A.F., Spiegal, S.A., Estell, R.E. 2025. Selection signatures in a Rarámuri Criollo cattle population introduced to the Southwestern United States. Journal of Animal Science Supplement. 103 (Supplement_3):342-343. https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/skaf300.396.

Drivers of emerging transboundary dust hazards across the US-Mexico border - (Abstract Only)
Dhital, S., Webb, N.P., Gill, T.E., Langford, R., Granados-Olivas, A., Dominguez-Acosta, M., Kaplan, M.L. 2025. Drivers of emerging transboundary dust hazards across the US-Mexico border. American Geophysical Union Meeting Abstract. Abstract.

Sensitivity of ecological site identification to soil and geomorphology observations in Nevada (USA) - (Abstract Only)
Martinez, P., McCord, S.E. 2025. Sensitivity of ecological site identification to soil and geomorphology observations in Nevada (USA). Soil Science Society of America Annual Meeting. Abstract.

Training Raramuri Criollo cattle to virtual fencing in chaparral rangeland - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Campa-Madrid, S.E., Perea, A.R., Funk, M., Spetter, M.J., Bakir, M., Walker, J., Estell, R.E., Soto-Navarro, S.A., Spiegal, S.A., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Utsumi, S.A. 2025. Training Raramuri Criollo cattle to virtual fencing in chaparral rangeland. Animals. 15(15):2178. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15152178.

Genetic diversity, admixture, and selection signatures in a Rarámuri Criollo cattle population introduced to the Southwestern United States - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Spetter, M.J., Utsumi, S.A., Armstrong, E.M., Rodriguez-Almeida, F.A., Ross, P.J., Macon, L.K., Jara, E., Cox, A., Perea, A.R., Funk, M., Redd, M., Cibils, A.F., Spiegal, S.A., Estell, R.E. 2025. Genetic diversity, admixture, and selection signatures in a Rarámuri Criollo cattle population introduced to the Southwestern United States. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 26(10). Article 4649. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26104649.

Integrating LoRaWAN sensor networks and machine learning models to classify beef cattle behavior on arid rangelands of the southwestern United States - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Perea, A.R., Rahman, S., Chen, H., Cox, A., Nyamuryekung'E, S., Bakir, M., Cao, H., Estell, R.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Cibils, A.F., Utsumi, S.A. 2025. Integrating LoRaWAN sensor network and machine learning models to classify beef cattle behavior on arid rangelands of the southwestern United State. Smart Agricultural Technology. 11. Article 101002. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atech.2025.101002.

Mapping ecological states in the upper Colorado River basin: Implications for fire management - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Severson, J.P., Bishop, T.B., Knight, A.C., Nauman, T.W., McNellis, B.E., Villarreal, M.L., Reed, S.C., Young, K.E., Brunson, M., Duniway, M.C. 2025. Mapping ecological states in the Upper Colorado River Basin: Implications for fire management. Applied Ecology and Environmental Research. 4(3):035004. https://doi.org/10.1088/2752-664X/adf55f.

Modifying dryland connectivity alongside herbicide application to restore herbaceous cover in shrub-encroached grasslands - (Abstract Only)
Reichenborn, M., Lehnhoff, E., Webb, N.P., Faist, A. 2025. Modifying dryland connectivity alongside herbicide application to restore herbaceous cover in shrub-encroached grasslands. Society for Ecological Restoration Abstracts. Abstract.

Identifying dust sources and dust transport mechanisms contributing to dust-on-snow events in the Rocky Mountains: Implications for management and restoration - (Abstract Only)
Dhital, S., Webb, N.P., Edwards, B., McCord, S.E., Kaplan, M.L. 2025. Identifying dust sources and dust transport mechanisms contributing to dust-on-snow events in the Rocky Mountains: Implications for management and restoration. Society for Ecological Restoration Abstracts. Abstract.

Diverse landscapes yield diverse outcomes: Variation in response to land management interventions - (Abstract Only)
Harrison, G.R., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Burkett, L.M., James, D.K., McCord, S.E. 2025. Diverse landscapes yield diverse outcomes: Variation in response to land management interventions. Ecological Society of America Abstracts. Abstract.

Utility of near-surface phenology in estimating productivity and evapotranspiration across diverse ecosystems - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Denham, S.O., Browning, D.M., Schreiner-McGraw, A.P., Scott, R.L., Dalzell, B.J., Flerchinger, G.N., Clark, P., Goslee, S.C., Hoover, D.L., Litvak, M., Maritz, M., Huggins, D.R., Phillips, C.L., Prueger, J.H., Alfieri, J.G., Bracho, R., Silveira, M., Whippo, C.W. 2025. Utility of near-surface phenology in estimating productivity and evapotranspiration across diverse ecosystems. Journal of Environmental Quality. Article e70043. https://doi.org/10.1002/jeq2.70043.

Crushing energy-based indicators of dry soil aggregate stability from contrastive land management practices in a semi-arid agroecosystem - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Pi, H., Wang, C., Li, S., Li, S., Webb, N.P. 2025. Crushing energy-based indicators of dry soil aggregate stability from contrastive land management practices in a semi-arid agroecosystem. Ecological Engineering. 217. Article 107663. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoleng.2025.107663.

Understanding beef production in the Southwest - (Other)
Gifford, C., Ramsey, P.L., Aney, A.S., Estell, R.E., Lish, S. 2025. Understanding beef production in the Southwest. Meeting Abstract. Abstract.

Navigating the possibilities and pitfalls of biocrust recovery under a changing climate - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Phillips, M., Young, K.E., Lauria, C., Jech, S., Giraldo-Silva, A., Reed, S. 2025. Navigating the possibilities and pitfalls of biocrust recovery under a changing climate. American Journal of Botany. 112(6). Article e70055. https://doi.org/10.1002/ajb2.70055.

Threshold-dependent plant community composition change across a dryland shrub encroachment gradient results in variable post-herbicide responses - (Abstract Only)
Reichenborn, M., Schroeder, R., Faist, A., Webb, N.P., Lehnhoff, E. 2025. Threshold-dependent plant community composition change across a dryland shrub encroachment gradient results in variable post-herbicide responses. Ecological Society of America Abstracts. Abstract.

More than just water limited: Microbial respiration responds to multiple limiting resources in dryland soils - (Proceedings)
Young, K.E., Chuckran, P., Reibold, R., Gauthier, D., Reed, S.C., McLaren, J., Holguin, J., Webb, N.P. 2025. More than just water limited: Microbial respiration responds to multiple limiting resources in dryland soils. Ecological Society of America Proceedings. Abstract.

A land potential-based framework for mitigating wind erosion and sand and dust storms - (Proceedings)
Young, K.E., Webb, N.P. 2025. A land potential-based framework for mitigating wind erosion and sand and dust storms. Society for Ecological Restoration Symposium. Abstract.

A proposal for simplifying and increasing the value of local to global land degradation monitoring - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Herrick, J.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Hoover, D.L., Toledo, D.N., Webb, N.P. 2025. A proposal for simplifying and increasing the value of local to global land degradation monitoring. Drylands. 2(e8):1-7. https://doi.org/10.1017/dry.2025.4.

Addressing key issues and knowledge gaps in resilience science for agriculture - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Sundstrom, S., Awada, T., Bennett, E.M., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Hodbod, J., Pacheco, A., Spiegal, S.A., Allen, C. 2025. Addressing key Issues and knowledge gaps in resilience science for agriculture. Agricultural Systems. 227. Article e104335. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agsy.2025.104335.

Optimizing the effectiveness of connectivity modifiers to reduce dryland degradation - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Young, K.E., Edwards, B., Duniway, M., Webb, N.P. 2025. Optimizing the effectiveness of connectivity modifiers to reduce dryland degradation. Restoration Ecology. Article e70055.

Evaluating alternative crops as a solution to water stress in the U.S. Southwest - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Silber-Coats, N., Elias, E.H., Fernald, K., Gagliardi, M. 2025. Evaluating alternative crops as a solution to water stress in the U.S. Southwest. Agricultural Water Management. 312. Article 109439. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agwat.2025.109439.

Practitioner tools for addressing knowing–doing gaps in seed-based restoration - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Young, K.E., Bishop, T., Johnson, D.B., Gunnell, K., Faist, A., Garbowski, M., Kildisheva, O., Neumann, D., Gornish, E. 2025. Practitioner tools for addressing knowing–doing gaps in seed-based restoration. Restoration Ecology. 33(4). Article e70043.

Connecting models and standardized monitoring data to support grazing lands conservation and land management - (Abstract Only)
Edwards, B.L., Webb, N.P., McCord, S.E. 2025. Connecting models and standardized monitoring data to support grazing lands conservation and land management. Soil and Water Conservation Society Proceedings. Abstract.

Windblown sediment flux magnitudes across rangeland ecological states: Insights from the National Wind Erosion Research Network - (Abstract Only)
Edwards, B.L., Webb, N.P., Van Zee, J.W., Courtright, E.M., Cooper, B.F., Newingham, B. 2025. Windblown sediment flux magnitudes across rangeland ecological states: Insights from the National Wind Erosion Research Network. Soil and Water Conservation Society. Abstract.

Magnitude shifts in aeolian sediment transport associated with degradation and restoration thresholds in drylands - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Webb, N.P., Wheeler, B., Edwards, B.L., Schallner, J.W., Macanowicz, N., Van Zee, J.W., Courtright, E.M., Cooper, B., McCord, S.E., Browning, D.M., Dhital, S., Young, K.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T. 2025. Magnitude shifts in aeolian sediment transport associated with degradation and restoration thresholds in drylands. Journal of Geophysical Research-Biogeosciences. 130(3). Article e2024JG008581. https://doi.org/10.1029/2024JG008581.

An accuracy assessment of satellite-derived rangeland fractional cover - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Harrison, G.R., Rigge, M., Assal, T.J., Applestein, C., James, D.K., McCord, S.E. 2025. An accuracy assessment of satellite-derived rangeland fractional cover. Ecological Indicators. 172. Article e113267. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2025.113267.

Canopy height model and NAIP imagery pairs across CONUS - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Allred, B.W., McCord, S.E., Morford, S.L. 2025. Canopy height model and NAIP imagery pairs across CONUS. Scientific Data. 12. Article 322. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41597-025-04655-z.

Spectroscopic solutions for generating new global soil information - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Peng, Y., Ben-Dor, E., Biswas, A., Chabrillat, S., Dematt, J., Ge, Y., Gholizadeh, A., Gomez, C., Guerrero, C., Herrick, J.E., Maynard, J.J., Mounem Mouazen, A., Ma, Y., McBratney, A., Minasny, B., Ramirez-Lopez, L., Robertson, A., Viscarra Rossel, R.A., Shi, Z., Stenberg, B., C. Wadoux, A.M., Winowiecki, L.A., Zhang, G. 2025. Spectroscopic solutions for generating new global soil data and information efficiently. Material Research Innovations. 6(5). Article e100839. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xinn.2025.100839.

When the cows come home unexpectedly: Rapid AUM assessment using satellite and ground-based methods on desert rangelands - (Abstract Only)
Spiegal, S.A., Funk, M., Macon, L.K., McIntosh, M.M., Cox, A. 2025. When the cows come home unexpectedly: Rapid AUM assessment using satellite and ground-based methods on desert rangelands. Society for Range Management Meeting Abstracts. Abstract.

Adaptive Grazing Management in the Information Age – incorporating data from virtual fence, remote sensing, and ground measurements - (Abstract Only)
Macon, L.K., Utsumi, S., Lambert, J.C., Cooper, G.A., Perea, A., James, D.K., Estell, R.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Spiegal, S.A. 2025. Adaptive Grazing Management in the Information Age – incorporating data from virtual fence, remote sensing, and ground measurements. Society for Range Management Meeting Abstracts. Abstract.

Virtual grazing of Raramuri Criollo and Angus-Hereford cattle on arid rangelands - (Proceedings)
Perea, A.R., Macon, L.K., Spetter, M.J., Funk, M.P., Campa Madrid, S.E., Estell, R.E., Van Leeuwen, D., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Spiegal, S.A., Utsumi, S.A. 2025. Virtual grazing of Raramuri Criollo and Angus-Hereford cattle on arid rangelands. Site Specific Farming Conference Proceedings. Proceedings.

Reflections on preparing Regional Chapters for NCA5 - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Frazier, A., Lustig, A.R., Chang, M., Elias, E.H., Mcpherson, R.A., Keener, V.W., Grecni, Z.N., Huntington, H.P., Mecray, E.L., Wood, K.M., Dello, K.D., Chardon-Maldonado, P., White, D.D. 2025. Reflections on preparing Regional Chapters for NCA5. Climatic Change. 178. Article 72. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10584-025-03874-y.

BioTIME 2.0: Expanding and improving a database of biodiversity time series - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Dornelas, M., Antão, L.H., Bates, A.E., Brambilla, V., Chase, J., Bestelmeyer, B.T., James, D.K., Slaughter, A.L. 2025. BioTIME 2.0: Expanding and improving a database of biodiversity time series. Global Ecology and Biogeography. 34(5). Article e70003. https://doi.org/10.1111/geb.70003.

Spatial scale dependence of error in fractional component cover maps - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Rigge, M., Bunde, B., McCord, S.E., Harrison, G.R., Assal, T.J., Smith, J.L. 2025. Spatial scale dependence of error in fractional component cover maps. Rangeland Ecology and Management. 99:77-87. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rama.2025.01.004.

Southern Plains and Southwest perspective on: What grazing management practices can help ranchers successfully adapt to climate change while also supporting healthy rangeland ecosystems? - (Abstract Only)
Spiegal, S.A., Goodman, L. 2025. Southern Plains and Southwest perspective on: What grazing management practices can help ranchers successfully adapt to climate change while also supporting healthy rangeland ecosystems?. Society for Range Management Meeting Abstracts. Abstract.

Exploratory analysis of multivariate relationships among the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, grazing behavior, and carbon gas emissions of beef cows grazing arid rangeland vegetation - (Abstract Only)
Spetter, M.J., Estell, R.E., Perea, A.R., Bakir, M., Funk, M.P., Macon, L.K., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Spiegal, S.A., Utsumi, S.A. 2025. Exploratory analysis of multivariate relationships among the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, grazing behavior, and carbon gas emissions of beef cows grazing arid rangeland vegetation. Society for Range Management Meeting Abstracts. Abstract.

A tool for guided state and transition model development based on ecological theory - (Proceedings)
Bestelmeyer, B.T., Williamson, J.C., McCord, S.E. 2025. A tool for guided state and transition model development based on ecological theory. International Rangeland Congress. Abstract.

Digital decision support tools for ranching - (Abstract Only)
Aney, A.S., Ramsey, P.L., Burnett, R. 2025. Digital decision support tools for ranching. Society of Range Management. Abstract.

From knowledge to practice: Linking Sustainable Southwest Beef Project activities to impacts - (Abstract Only)
Elias, E.H., Aney, A.S., Ramsey, P.L., Burnett, R., Spiegal, S.A., Cibils, A.F. 2025. From knowledge to practice: Linking Sustainable Southwest Beef Project activities to impacts. Society of Range Management. Abstract.

Leveraging rangeland fractional cover technologies to advance rangeland management - (Proceedings)
McCord, S.E., Assal, T., Creutzburg, M., Harrison, G.R., Jensen, E., Kachergis, E., Rigge, M., Scarth, P., Zhou, B. 2025. Leveraging rangeland fractional cover technologies to advance rangeland management. International Rangeland Congress. Abstract.

Virtual grazing of Raramuri Criollo and Angus-Hereford cattle on arid rangelands - (Abstract Only)
Perea, A.R., Macon, L.K., Spetter, M.J., Funk, M.P., Estell, R.E., Van Leeuwen, D., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Spiegal, S.A., Utsumi, S.A. 2025. Virtual grazing of Raramuri Criollo and Angus-Hereford cattle on arid rangelands. Society for Range Management Meeting Abstracts. Abstract.

Prioritization of research on drought assessment in a changing climate - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Lisonbee, J., Parker, B., Fleishman, E., Ford, T., Bocinsky, K., Follinstad, G., Frazier, A., Hoylman, Z.H., Hudson, A.R., Nielsen-Gammon, J., Umphlett, N., Wickham, E., Bamzai-Dodson, A., Fontenot, R., Fuchs, B., Hammond, J., Herrick, J.E., Hobbins, M., Hoell, A., Jones, J., Lane, E., Leasor, Z., Liu, Y., Otkin, J., Sheffield, A., Todey, D.P., Pulwarty, R. 2025. Prioritization of research on drought assessment in a changing climate. Earth's Future. 13(3). Article e2024EF005276. https://doi.org/10.1029/2024EF005276.

Optimizing sampling across transect-based methods improves the power of agroecological monitoring data - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
McCord, S.E., Webb, N.P., Van Zee, J.W., Courtright, E.M., Duniway, M.C., Edwards, B., Kachergis, E., Moriasi, D.N., Morra, B., Nafus, A., Newingham, B.A., Scott, D.A., Toledo, D.N. 2025. Optimizing sampling across transect-based methods improves the power of agroecological monitoring data. Journal of Environmental Quality. 54(3):706-719. https://doi.org/10.1002/jeq2.20678.

El valor potencial del bovino criollo para el diseño de sistemas sostenibles de producción vaca-becerro en zonas áridas y semiáridas - (Proceedings)
Rodriguez-Almeida, F.A., Floriano-Lopez, A., Roacho-Estrada, J.O., Cibils, A.F., Martinez-Quintana, J.A., Sandoval-Villalobos, J., Estell, R.E. 2024. El valor potencial del bovino criollo para el diseño de sistemas sostenibles de producción vaca-becerro en zonas áridas y semiáridas. Proceedings. Proceedings.

Dust transport pathways from The Great Basin - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Tremino, R., Webb, N.P., Dhital, S., Faist, A., Newingham, B.A., Brungard, C., Dubois, D., Edwards, B., Kachergis, E. 2025. Dust transport pathways from The Great Basin. Journal of Geophysical Research Atmospheres. 72. Article 100958. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aeolia.2024.100958.

Virtual grazing of Raramuri Criollo and Angus-Hereford cattle on arid rangelands - (Abstract Only)
Perea, A.R., Macon, L.K., Funk, M., Spetter, M.J., Campa-Madrid, S.E., Estell, R.E., Vanleeuwen, D., Spiegal, S.A., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Utsumi, S.A. 2025. Virtual grazing of Raramuri Criollo and Angus-Hereford cattle on arid rangelands. International Conference on Precision Agriculture Abstracts & Proceedings. Abstract.

Integrating erosion models into land health assessments to better understand landscape condition - (Abstract Only)
Wheeler, B., Webb, N.P., Williams, J.B., Edwards, B., Faist, A., Herrick, J.E., Kachergis, E., Lepak, N., McCord, S.E., Newingham, B.A., Pietrasiak, N., Toledo, D.N. 2025. Integrating erosion models into land health assessments to better understand landscape condition. Society of Range Management. Abstract.

Understanding the value of organizing manuresheds: A systemic review of relationships and factors connecting manure management applications - (Abstract Only)
Sotel-Sosa, S., Miller, M., Spiegal, S.A. 2025. Understanding the value of organizing manuresheds: A systemic review of relationships and factors connecting manure management applications. Southern Agricultural Economics Association Annual Meetings. Abstract.

Cliffs support lichen communities unique from nearby forests: Cliff lichens - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Boggess, L.M., Harrison, G.R., Lendemer, J.C. 2024. Cliffs support lichen communities unique from nearby forests: Cliff lichens. Basic and Applied Ecology. 81:112-120. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.baae.2024.11.003.

An evaluation of different approaches for estimating shear velocity in aeolian research studies - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Zhang, P., Edwards, B., Webb, N.P., Trautz, A., Gillies, J., Ziegler, N., Van Zee, J.W. 2024. An evaluation of different approaches for estimating shear velocity in aeolian research studies. Aeolian Research. 70-71. Article 100945. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aeolia.2024.100945.

Realizing soil health for food security in Africa - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Snapp, S., Chamberlin, J., Marenya, P., Winowiecki, L., Amede, T., Aynekulu, E., Gameda, S., Herrick, J.E., Lal, R., Nagrajan, L., Stewart, Z., Vagen, T. 2024. Realizing soil health for food security in Africa. Nature Sustainability. 8:3-5. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41893-024-01482-9.

Advancing effective agroecosystem sustainability performance indicators via the USDA Long-Term Agroecosystem Research Network (LTAR) - (Abstract Only)
Donovan, M.E., Spiegal, S.A., Kaplan, N.E., Archer, D.W., Bean, A.R., Beebout, S.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Clark, P., Delong, A., Fortuna, A., Friedrichsen, C.N., Hoover, D.L., Huggins, D.R., Kleinman, P.J., Mcintosh, M.M., Renschler, C.S., Ritten, J., Smith, D.P., Webb, N.P., Wulfhorst, J.D. 2024. Advancing effective agroecosystem sustainability performance indicators via the USDA Long-Term Agroecosystem Research Network (LTAR). American Geophysical Union. Abstract.

Nitrogen 2.0: The next generation of nitrogen management in food production systems - (Abstract Only)
Almaraz, M., Davidson, E.A., Spiegal, S.A., Zhang, X., Brooke, C., Anderson, K., Buckler Iv, E.S. 2024. Nitrogen 2.0: The next generation of nitrogen management in food production systems. American Geophysical Union. Abstract.

Modeling dryland ecosystem processes with water and wind interactions - (Abstract Only)
Hanan, N., Hilinski, T., Maurer, G., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Okin, G. 2024. Modeling dryland ecosystem processes with water and wind interactions. American Geophysical Union Meeting Abstract. Abstract.

Characterizing variability in geochemistry and mineralogy of western US dust sources - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Mangum, A., Carling, G., Bickmore, B., Webb, N.P., Leifi, D., Brahney, J., Fernandez, D., Rey, K., Nelson, S., Burgener, L., Lemonte, J., Thompson, A., Newingham, B.A., Duniway, M.C., Aanderud, Z. 2024. Characterizing variability in geochemistry and mineralogy of western US dust sources. Aeolian Research. 70-71. Article 100941. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aeolia.2024.100941.

The vision for adapted crops and soils: How to prioritize investments to achieve sustainable nutrition for all - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Herrick, J.E., Fowler, C., Sibanda, L.M., Lal, R., Nelson, A.M. 2024. The vision for adapted crops and soils: How to prioritize investments to achieve sustainable nutrition for all. Nature Plants. 10:1840-1846. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41477-024-01867-w.

Evaluation of the gap intercept method to reasure rangeland connectivity - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
McCord, S.E., Brehm, J.R., Condon, L., Dreesmann, L., Ellsworth, L.M., Germino, M.J., Herrick, J.E., Howard, B.K., Kachergis, E., Karl, J.W., Knight, A., Meadors, S., Nafus, A., Newingham, B.A., Olsoy, P.J., Pietrasiak, N., Pilliod, D.S., Schaefer, A., Webb, N.P., Wheeler, B., Williams, C.J., Young, K.E. 2025. Evaluation of the gap intercept method to provide measurements and indicators of rangeland connectivity. Rangeland Ecology and Management. 98:297-315. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rama.2024.09.001.

Forest Resource Index for Decisions in Adaptation (FRIDA), a library of resources for forest stewardship in the Southwest - (Abstract Only)
Elias, E.H., Kramer, L.R. 2024. Forest Resource Index for Decisions in Adaptation (FRIDA), a library of resources for forest stewardship in the Southwest. Meeting Abstract. Abstract.

Diverging trends of vegetation communities across ecoregions of the western United States - (Abstract Only)
Dhital, S., Webb, N.P., McCord, S.E., Bradford, J.B., Schlaepfer, D.R., Treminio, R.S., Duniway, M.C., Nauman, T.W. 2024. Diverging trends of vegetation communities across ecoregions of the western United States. American Geophysical Union. Abstract.

Estructura genómica y composición ancestral de una población divergente de bovino Criollo Rarámuri introducida en el suroeste de los Estados Unidos - (Proceedings)
Spetter, M.J., Estell, R.E., Rodriguez-Almeida, F.A., Armstrong, E., Jara, E., Ross, P., Macon, L.K., Perea, A.R., Spiegal, S.A., Utsumi, S.A. 2024. Estructura genómica y composición ancestral de una población divergente de bovino Criollo Rarámuri introducida en el suroeste de los Estados Unidos. Proceedings of Congreso Internacional de Agricultura Para Zonas Aridas. Proceedings.

Socio-environmental influences on land turnover in US public rangelands - (Abstract Only)
Lu, L., Skaggs, R., Slaughter, A.L., Bestelmeyer, B.T. 2024. Socio-environmental influences on land turnover in US public rangelands. Science and Sustainability Conference Proceedings. Abstract.

Interannual variability governs performance of near-surface vegetation greenness to predict productivity and evapotranspiration across diverse agroecosystems - (Abstract Only)
Denham, S.O., Browning, D.M., Dalzell, B.J., Huggins, D.R., Flerchinger, G.N., Clark, P., Goslee, S.C., Griffs, T., Hoover, D.L., Litvak, M., Maritz, M., Phillips, C.L., Scott, R.L., Schreiner-Mcgraw, A.P., Bracho, R., Silveira, M., Whippo, C.W. 2025. Interannual variability governs performance of near-surface vegetation greenness to predict productivity and evapotranspiration across diverse agroecosystems. American Geophysical Union Meeting Abstract. Abstract.

Entrenamiento de ganado Rarámuri Criollo al uso de cercas virtuales en ambientes de producción extensiva - (Proceedings)
Campa-Madrid, S.E., Perea, A.R., Funk, M.P., Spetter-Lucas, M.J., Soto-Navarro, S., Walker, J., Paulin, R., Criley, L., Estell, R.E., Utsumi, S.A. 2024. Entrenamiento de ganado Rarámuri Criollo al uso de cercas virtuales en ambientes de producción extensiva. Proceedings of Congreso Internacional de Agricultura Para Zonas Aridas. Proceedings.

Implementación de cerca virtual en ganado bovino Criollo Raramuri y la cruza britanica Angus-Hereford - (Proceedings)
Perea, A.R., Macon, L.K., Funk, M.P., Spetter, M.J., Campa-Madrid, S.E., Estell, R.E., VanLeeuwen, D., Spiegal, S.A., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Utsumi, S.A. 2024. Implementación de cerca virtual en ganado bovino Criollo Raramuri y la cruza britanica Angus-Hereford. Proceedings of Congreso Internacional de Agricultura Para Zonas Aridas. Abstract.

Effects of multiple mammalian herbivores and climate on grassland-shrubland transitions in the Chihuahuan Desert - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Andreoni, K.J., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Lightfoot, D., Schooley, R. 2024. Effects of multiple mammalian herbivores and climate on grassland-shrubland transitions in the Chihuahuan Desert. Ecology. 105(12). Article e4460. https://doi.org/10.1002/ecy.4460.

Closing the conservation gap in the sagebrush biome: Spatial targeting and exceptional coordination are needed for conservation efforts to keep pace with ecosystem losses - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Mozelewski, T.G., Freeman, P.T., Kumar, A.V., Naugle, D.E., Olimpi, E.M., Morford, S.L., Jeffries, M.I., Pilliod, D.S., Littlefield, C.E., McCord, S.E., Wiechmanf, L.A., Doherty, K.E. 2024. Closing the conservation gap in the sagebrush biome: Spatial targeting and exceptional coordination are needed for conservation efforts to keep pace with ecosystem losses. Rangeland Ecology and Management. 97:12-24. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rama.2024.08.016.

PSX-8 Genetic characterization of Raramuri Criollo cattle introduced into the Southwestern United States - (Abstract Only)
Spetter, M., Estell, R.E., Utsumi, S., Armstrong, E., Jara, E., Ross, P., Macon, L.K., Perea, A., Cox, A., Spiegal, S.A. 2024. Genetic characterization of Raramuri Criollo cattle introduced into the Southwestern United States. Journal of Animal Science. 102(Supplement_3):447-449.

Exploring rangeland restoration with satellite-derived fractional cover maps - (Abstract Only)
Harrison, G.R., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Burkett, L.M., James, D.K., Meadors, S., McCord, S.E. 2024. Exploring rangeland restoration with satellite-derived fractional cover maps. Society for Ecological Restoration Abstracts. Abstract.

The impacts of rock climbing on lichen and bryophyte cliff communities in northwestern North America - (Abstract Only)
Bishop, G.M., Harrison, G.R., Boggess, L.M., Magori, K., O'Quinn, R., Allen, J.L. 2024. The impacts of rock climbing on lichen and bryophyte cliff communities in northwestern North America. Ecology Symposium. Abstract.

A call to action for inventory and monitoring of cliff ecosystems to support conservation - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Harrison, G.R., Boggess, L.M., McCord, S.E., March-Salas, M. 2024. A call to action for inventory and monitoring of cliff ecosystems to support conservation. Basic and Applied Ecology. 80:31-39. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.baae.2024.07.006.

The LTAR Grazing Land Common Experiment at the Jornada Experimental Range: Old genetics, new precision technologies, and adaptive value chains - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Spiegal, S.A., Estell, R.E., Cibils, A.F., Cox, A., McIntosh, M.M., Browning, D.M., Duniway, M., Funk, M., Macon, L.K., McCord, S.E., Redd, M., Tolle, C., Utsumi, S., Walker, J., Webb, N.P., Bestelmeyer, B.T. 2024. The LTAR Grazing Land Common Experiment at the Jornada Experimental Range: Old genetics, new precision technologies, and adaptive value chains. Journal of Environmental Quality. 53(6):880-892. https://doi.org/10.1002/jeq2.20605.

Cliff nesting birds provide nutrient inputs to cliff ecosystems - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Langevin, A.E., Boggess, L.M., Harrison, G.R., Madritch, M.D. 2024. Cliff nesting birds provide nutrient inputs to cliff ecosystems. Basic and Applied Ecology. 79:74-83. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.baae.2024.06.001.

Raramuri Criollo: A genetic resource for climate resilient livestock production - (Popular Publication)
Spetter, M.J., Estell, R.E., Utsumi, S.A., Armstrong, E., Jara, E., Ross, P., Macon, L.K., Perea, A.R., Cox, A., Spiegal, S.A. 2024. Raramuri Criollo: A genetic resource for climate resilient livestock production. Extension Fact Sheets. Fact Sheet. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11167313.

Challenges and opportunities for Extension in drought adaptation: A case study on ranching in New Mexico - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Dinan, M., Brunson, M., Elias, E.H., Brown, J. 2024. Challenges and opportunities for Extension in drought adaptation: A case study on ranching in New Mexico. Protocols.io. 16(4):639-3649. https://doi.org/10.1175/WCAS-D-23-0098.1.

The water adaptation techniques atlas: A new geospatial library of solutions to water scarcity in the U.S. Southwest - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Silber-Coats, N., Elias, E.H., Steele, C., Fernald, K., Gagliardi, M., Hrozencik, A., Levers, L.R., Ostoja, S.M., Parker, L., Williamson, J.C., Yao, Y. 2024. The water adaptation techniques atlas: A new geospatial library of solutions to water scarcity in the U.S. Southwest. PLOS Water. 3(6). Article e0000246. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pwat.0000246.

Selecting performance indicators for farms and ranches engaged in collaborative agroecosystem research - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Donovan, M.E., Spiegal, S.A., Kaplan, N.E., Archer, D.W., Bean, A., Beebout, S.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T., Clark, P., DeLong, A., Fortuna, A., Friedrichsen, C.N., Hoover, D.L., Huggins, D.R., Kleinman, P.J., McIntosh, M.M., Renschler, C.S., Ritten, J., Smith, D.R., Webb, N.P., Wulfhorst, J.D. 2025. Selecting performance indicators for farms and ranches engaged in collaborative agroecosystem research. Journal of Environmental Quality. Article 70051. https://doi.org/10.1002/jeq2.70051.

USDA LTAR Common Experiment measurement: PhenoCam for Green Chromatic Coordinate - (Research Notes)
Browning, D.M., Saliendra, N.Z., Whippo, C.W. 2024. USDA LTAR Common Experiment measurement: PhenoCam for Green Chromatic Coordinate. Protocols.io. Research notes.

Forest Resource Index for Decisions in Adaptation (FRIDA), a library of resources for forest stewardship in the Southwest - (Abstract Only)
Kramer, L.R., Elias, E.H. 2024. Forest Resource Index for Decisions in Adaptation (FRIDA), a library of resources for forest stewardship in the Southwest. Forest Service Meeting. Abstract.

Insights from dust research at the Jornada Experimental Range - (Abstract Only)
Dhital, S., Webb, N.P., Edwards, B.L., Okin, G.S., McCord, S.E., Bestelmeyer, B.T. 2024. Insights from dust research at the Jornada Experimental Range. University of California at Davis, CADO Symposium. Abstract.

Soil carbon sequestration potential of Mongolian grasslands - (Abstract Only)
Heller, A., Densambuu, B., Dashbal, B. 2025. Soil carbon sequestration potential of Mongolian grasslands. Sustainable Agriculture Research. Abstract.

Real-time detection of parturition in beef cows managed on extensive rangeland pasture - (Abstract Only)
Perea, A., Cox, A., Funk, M., Rahman, S., Chen, H., Wang, Y., Campa Madrid, S., Spetter, M., Cao, H., Cibils, A.F., Estell, R.E., Duff, G., Utusmi, S. 2024. Real-time detection of parturition in beef cows managed on extensive rangeland pasture. Journal of Animal Science. 102(Supplement_3):603-604.

Comparative analysis of the training response of Raramuri Criollo and Angus Cattle to Virtual Fencing - (Abstract Only)
Perea, A., Macon, L.K., Dunlap, R.J., Funk, M., Winkler, P., Campa Madrid, S., Spetter, M., Filbert, M., Cibils, A.F., Estell, R.E., Duff, G., Vanleeuwen, D., Utsumi, S. 2024. Comparative Analysis of the Training Response of Raramuri Criollo and Angus Cattle to Virtual Fencing. Journal of Animal Science. Abstract.

Stressing the small stuff: How biocrusts respond to altered precipitation - (Proceedings)
Young, K.E., Reed, S., Sala, O., Tucker, C., Finger-Higgens, R., Starbuck, M., Darrouzet-Nardi, A. 2024. Stressing the small stuff: How biocrusts respond to altered precipitation. Ecological Society of America (ESA). Abstract.

Using large-scale monitoring and remote sensing data to monitor restoration outcomes through time - (Proceedings)
Young, K.E., Dhital, S., James, D.K., Duniway, M., Tyree, G., McCord, S.E., Webb, N.P. 2024. Using large-scale monitoring and remote sensing data to monitor restoration outcomes through time. Ecological Society of America (ESA). Abstract.

Qualitative assessment of restoration effectiveness using Describing Indicators of Rangeland Health - (Abstract Only)
Lepak, N., Moffitt, J., Toledo, D.N., Newingham, B.A., Laurence-Traynor, A., Jost, B., Coultrap, D., Herrick, J.E. 2024. Qualitative assessment of restoration effectiveness using Describing Indicators of Rangeland Health. USGS - Scientific Investigations Report. Report.

Ecology on the rocks: Cliff ecology research from the Southern Appalachian Cliff Coalition - (Abstract Only)
Boggess, L.M., Harrison, G.R. 2024. Ecology on the rocks: Cliff ecology research from the Southern Appalachian Cliff Coalition. International Botanical Congress. Abstract.

Special issue opening editorial: Reducing nitrogen waste through crop and livestock reconnection - (Peer Reviewed Journal)
Lassaletta, L., Sanz-Cobeña, A., Pinsard, C., Ma, L., Spiegal, S.A., Reidsma, P. 2024. Special issue opening editorial: Reducing nitrogen waste through crop and livestock reconnection. Agricultural Systems. 214. Article e103816. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agsy.2023.103816.

Appendix 4 - Indicators - The Fifth National Climate Assessment - (Government Publication)
Stevens, L.E., Kolian, M., Shane Arndt, D., Blunden, J., Johnson, E., Liu, A., Spiegal, S.A. 2024. Appendix 4 - Indicators - The Fifth National Climate Assessment. National Climate Assessment. Abstract. https://doi.org/10.7930/NCA5.2023.A4.

Grass-shrub interactions at the core of woody plant encroachment – Contributions to conceptual models, process, and mechanism - (Abstract Only)
Browning, D.M., Predick, K., Archer, S.R. 2023. Grass-shrub interactions at the core of woody plant encroachment – Contributions to conceptual models, process, and mechanism. Society for Range Management. Abstract.

An atlas of solutions to water scarcity in the Southwest - (Abstract Only)
Silber-Coats, N., Steele, C., Hrozencik, A., Tanner, S., Ostoja, S.M., Williamson, J.C., Yao, Y., Elias, E.H., Holguin, J. 2024. An atlas of solutions to water scarcity in the Southwest. Proceedings American AGU Chapman Conference on the GIS in the Vadose Zone. Abstract.