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Rangeland Resource Science, B.S. | Class of
Heidi Ramsey (Ruhling)
State Conservationist (STC), Nevada, USA
Employer: USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Job description: The STC is responsible for overseeing all conservation programs and activities within a specific state, including directing staff, coordinating with local partners, and ensuring the effective implementation of conservation practices to protect natural resources like soil, water, and wildlife habitat across the state, while working closely with landowners and agricultural producers to achieve conservation goals.
About Heidi
Why did you choose this program?
I chose the Rangeland Resource Science program because it offered the most holistic natural resource management education. Ecosystems are dynamic and looking at how one component interacts with another is critical to a deeper understanding of the interplay of the natural system.
How did this program prepare you for your job?
I was fortunate to start my first permanent position not far from where I went to school in Humboldt. I had an excellent working knowledge of rangeland plant species, as well, as practical knowledge of how to measure forage availability for the animals using it. Besides an excellent science education, I also was able to use my writing skills in every job I have ever held.
What did you enjoy most about the program?
I would have to say I enjoyed the people the most. My teachers were always engaged, caring, and expert in their fields. The people I got to go to school with are lifelong friends. In my line of work, Cal Poly Humboldt is internationally recognized as a top-notch education, and I see many alumni across the natural resource disciplines throughout my career and my travels. Plus, I loved the fieldtrips! There's nothing like a day of digging in soils and working under the broad western skies to re-awaken the love of nature.
What would you say to prospective students who are thinking about applying to this program?
Go for it! I can say without reservation that this is not only an excellent program with which to be involved, but because of the specific classes you take, it will prepare and qualify you for many of the science positions that some of the other less technical programs cannot. This program offers you more freedom to choose your career in natural resources.