Breadcrumb
Rangeland Resource Science, B.S. | Class of
Crystal Kunz
Ecologist
Employer: Bureau of Land Management
Job description: I manage the Botany, Range, and Invasive Weeds Programs at the Arcata BLM Field Office. My responsibilities include habitat restoration; managing federally listed threatened and endangered species recovery projects; allotment monitoring, rangeland health evaluations and grazing lease renewals; and invasive species management.
About Crystal
Why did you choose this program?
I had just finished the final exam for Soils 360: Soil Origins and Classification and knew I had found my calling. I went straight to Dr. Susan Marshall after the exam and switched my major from environmental science to Rangeland Resource Science. I picked this major because I felt challenged and inspired after every single class I had involving soils and range.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
I learned valuable monitoring protocols, vegetation community principles, and in-depth education on wildland soils, which created the foundation for my ecology career. I felt totally prepared to enter the workforce after the education I received and hands on experience in my labs.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
I enjoyed the small cohort of students for each class, which allowed for better engagement with the teachers. All the courses were incredibly fascinating ranging from soil taxonomy, soil physics, plant physiology, plant taxonomy, rangeland vegetation communities, soil microbiology and so much more. It was easy to go down the rabbit hole of each course and soak up the course material.
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
Take the leap! This is a unique and wonderful program. I would absolutely chose the same path if I had to redo it.