Society for Range Management recognizes members, students during meeting
Green River – During an early September meeting, the Wyoming Section of the Society for Range Management (SRM) convened for a week of education and on-the-ground experience related to rangeland management.
In addition to sessions both in the classroom and in the field, SRM members gathered to recognize those range professionals who have served the state and industry.
Men on the Range
This year, Wyoming SRM recognized two men with the Outstanding Man on the Range Award.
“This award is given to individuals who are actively engaged in ranching or range management and are recognized leaders in the profession,” said Wyoming SRM President Mae Smith. “Candidates must be interested in the promotion and advancement of the art and science of range management.”
Ray Gullion was selected as a result of his service in Worland’s field office of USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). With over 30 years in NRCS, Gullion has been active across multiple counties.
“Ray’s work in the field of range management, his willingness to work long hours and his volunteer work show his dedication to the profession,” Smith said. “He has trained and encouraged students, volunteers and agency professionals in rangeland monitoring, inventory techniques and range management practices.”
Another NRCS employee, Bryan Christensen, was also recognized with the Outstanding Man on the Range Award.
“Bryan’s work on environmental site description development, training and education, and his awareness of producer and landowner needs makes him a worthy recipient of the Outstanding Man on the Range Award,” Smith said.
Christensen works for NRCS in Pinedale and is SRM’s president-elect.
Trail Boss Award
“The Trail Boss Award is one of the highest recognitions within the Wyoming Section of SRM,” Smith continued. “Recipients are members of SRM and have made noteworthy or outstanding contributions in the past five years in the art and science of range management.”
This year, Wyoming SRM recognized John Likins with the Trail Boss Award.
“John has contributed time and supplies to data collection and review of historical data to assist with ESD development, climate station installation and soil sensor installation to support monitoring project,” Smith said.
Smith recognized Likin’s dedication, knowledge, enthusiasm and support of range management as being vital in improving the ability for professionals to manage Wyoming’s vast rangelands.
Learn more about the Wyoming Section for the Society for Range Management and this year’s annual meeting by visiting rangelands.org/Wyoming.
