2-26 IAN Rangeland

The Idaho Rangeland Resource Commission (IRRC) is dedicated to providing scientifically-based educational materials to Idaho teachers. Science textbooks teach Idaho students more about rainforest ecosystems than on rangeland ecosystems. Understanding the place in which we live will result in better decisions on how to care for the land. Focusing on learning about this complex ecosystem, the IRRC in cooperation with the University of Idaho developed a "Rangeland Assessment Kit" for secondary science classrooms to collect relevant rangeland data. Learning from these methods will help build an understanding of the natural dynamics of these ecosystems. Here’s Executive Director of IRRC, Gretchen Hyde: The Idaho Rangeland Resource Commission is a State Agency that was set up by the livestock industry through the legislature to do education and outreach programs. They’re for schools and teachers and creating materials for curriculum in the classroom so students and teachers learn more about where they live and I’m also on the Board of Ag in the Classroom so we work with them as well.” Idaho's rangeland resources are beneficial to all who enjoy them--whether hiking, biking, horseback riding or hunting and fishing.