Rangelands West/Global Rangelands, extension Rangelands, and the Range Science Information System: A Suite of New Web Resources

摘要

Throughout the world, rangelands are important to the livelihoods and quality of life of many people. Extending over one-third of the earth's surface, rangelands are often at the center of changing values and controversies over land use and managementpractices, making it essential for people everywhere to have knowledge of and quick access to the information and tools they need to apply innovative and practical rangeland stewardship strategies. Similarly, rangeland managers recognize that their workneeds to be based on the most current research available, no matter the source or location. Because of this, it is necessary to have ready access to science, education, and outreach materials that address these needs. Currently, no one resource providesthis level of accessibility to the world s authoritative rangeland literature, educational resources, and practical tools. However, several related initiatives are now working to fill this gap. Here we describe a complementary set of three resources: Rangelands West/Global Rangelands, eXtension Rangelands, and the Range Science Information System (RSIS). Together, they provide a comprehensive set of tools covering all aspects of rangeland science and practice.