Grassland Ecology and Management

(formerly Rangeland Ecosystems)

Introduction

This major focuses on the management of rangeland, the world’s most abundant type of land. About 45 percent of the world’s land area and half of Nebraska’s is classified as rangeland. These are ecosystems made up primarily of grassland that involve complex relationships among plants, animals, microorganisms, and nonliving factors such as soil, water and climate.

The program is offered through the School of Natural Resources, where you will study basic sciences, natural resources and range science. Specialized courses may include forage crop and range management, range management and improvement, wildlife biology and conservation, range ecosystems, integrated resource management, range plants and rangeland analysis.

Rangelands have many uses, most commonly as a forage base for the large livestock industry. Proper range management is essential for sustaining livestock systems, biodiversity, wildlife habitat, quality recreation areas and watershed integrity. Effective range management conserves renewable resources and is a promising career dedicated to the sustenance of a crucial ecological system.

Information Sheet

• Grassland Ecology Information Sheet (from SNR)

Sample Classes

• See a Sample Schedule of Classes (from UNL Admissions)

Meet our students!

Follow this link to see stories from current and former UNL students. Notice the diverse interests and career goals of the students! Can you imagine having experiences like theirs? Contact an advisor (see below) for more information about this major.

Careers

• Natural Resources Conservation Service
• Bureau of Land Management
• U.S. Forest Service
• Federal or state fish and wildlife services
• Private land management
• Representatives for companies, banks and real estate agencies

Potential Advising Faculty

• Lowell E. Moser
• Walter H. Schacht, Chief Contact
• James Stubbendieck
• David A. Wedin