First-of-its-kind research on the impact of California's resurgent population of protected gray wolves shows rising predation and costs to cattle ranchers. It underscores the need to move “toward some kind of coexistence,” rangelands specialist Ken Tate says.
Department researchers are revealing important ways that universities, government agencies and other support organizations can help our food producers develop resilience to environmental challenges and remain profitable.
The 2025 Rustici Rangeland Science Symposium at UC Davis will unite experts to address climate resilience, wildfire risks, and wolf-cattle conflicts. With key talks and networking, the event fosters solutions for sustainable rangeland management in California’s evolving landscapes.
The people who produce our food need support -- especially in the areas of mental and physical well-being -- to recover from increasingly widespread wildfire, scientists have found. Postdoctoral researcher Natalia Pinzon Jimenez suggests the federal Farm Bill could help by funding programs for producers.
Research shows ranchers benefit from planning for extreme weather, but climate-smart strategies alone aren’t enough. A new $990K USDA grant will support training, outreach, and resources to help ranchers adapt to drought and climate change.
Leslie Roche has received the Outstanding New Academic Award from University of California Agricultural and Natural Resources. Roche is an associate professor of Cooperative Extension, based in the Department of Plant Sciences. Her research looks at the agricultural, environmental and social aspects of ranching and livestock production.
Rangeland scientist Leslie Roche was named the Rustici Endowed Specialist in Rangeland Watershed Science, helping California ranchers address climate, water, and land-use challenges through collaborative research.
Researchers from UC Davis used the 2018 River Fire as a rare chance to study wildfire effects on soil, plants, and grazing lands. Their data are now helping others assess livestock impacts and track post-fire drought recovery.
Leslie Roche, a UC Davis rangeland specialist, was elected to a two-year term on the board of the Society for Range Management. Her research focuses on sustainable grazing practices to help California ranchers cope with wildfire and drought impacts.
