Range Science has long been a program at North Dakota State University beginning with Herbert C. Hanson in the 1920’s. It was allied with Botany/Biology until 1985 and with Animal Science since 1985. Range Science has retained a distinctive undergraduate and graduate option within Botany/Biology and Animal Science for decades. The program is now offered as an independent major in the School of Natural Resource Sciences. Range Science is a discipline that focuses on the scientific study of rangelands, arid regions, grasslands, prairies, and grazed forests in order to manage the natural renewable resources for optimum benefit and environmental balance.
Rangeland professionals can choose from a variety of diverse and exciting careers. Some of the options available are land managers, scientists, educators, and conservationists. Rangeland professionals can also work closely with landowners as well as with the public on matters relating to national forests, grasslands and public rangelands. The Society for Range Mangement has published a brochure entitled "A Career in Rangeland Management" describing options available for the rangeland professional.
