Home on the Range–Ranching to Support Grassland Bird

Learn about the co-benefits of managing for bird populations. Massive herds of buffalo and elk once shaped our grasslands by grazing in patterns that created a mix of short and tall vegetation. When livestock are managed holistically, they can actually benefit ecosystem functions, including bird habitat. Many birds evolved alongside large grazing animals. Ranches can graze their livestock to mimic the natural conditions these birds and other creatures depend on. Two conservation organizations are working closely with ranchers to help monitor these efforts and guide their practices to support bird habitat. In this workshop, you’ll hear from Audubon Conservation Ranching and Point Blue Conservation Science on how ranchers can help steward rangelands in a way that supports critical bird habitat and, from this support, multiple ecosystem benefits.
Questions? Contact kathy@tomkatranch.org.

Speakers:
Bonnie Eyestone, Working Lands Director, Point Blue Conservation Science: Her work focuses on advancing science on rangelands with ranchers, researchers, and conservation partners in studying ecological function on California rangelands. Bonnie’s work includes helping to lead science and outreach efforts for Point Blue’s working lands programs with key partners, and facilitating integration and collaboration among the working lands efforts within Point Blue.

Pelayo Alvarez, California Program Director for the Audubon Conservation Ranching Program at the National Audubon Society. He also serves as Director of Outreach and Partnerships at The Carbon Cycle Institute, advancing carbon farming programs. Pelayo previously taught rangeland ecology, consulted on agricultural issues, and held leadership roles at the CA Rangeland Conservation Coalition and UC Davis. He holds a Ph.D. in Ecology from UC Davis, an M.S. in Animal Science from Oklahoma State University, and a degree in Veterinary Medicine from Universidad de León.