”LIFE” RANCH TOUR 2007 – LEE LIVESTOCK, ELKO COUNTY

The LIFE program is a week-long environmental program coordinated by Director, Dan Allison of the Nevada Natural Resource Education Council (NNREC). Allison’s program focuses on K-6 teachers, who work with a diverse staff to present the 2007 topic: Water and Wetlands. NNREC uses environmental programs and activities such as: Project WET; Project WILD; Wow! Wonders of Wetlands; GEMS Aquatic Habitats.

The objective of the NNSG Ranch Tour is to introduce educators to the connections between structured environmental programming and practical application of wetland and wildlife issues experienced as daily requirements for livestock producers. Educators also grasp the societal demands within rural communities, where citizen’s interests in recreational, economic, and social needs, must be balanced within national environmental requirements to preserve biodiversity, species structure, archeological values, clean air and water quality and quantity.

The Northeastern Nevada Stewardship Group (NNSG) was pleased to have the professional guidance of Chuck Petersen in the presentation of the 2007 Lamoille Institute For Educators (LIFE) Ranch Tour held at the Lee Livestock property August 1, 2007. Chuck joined other rangeland specialists and community volunteers in the days presentations, and very aptly served as the events coordinator for 2007.

There were four primary presenters covering the following topics: Lamoille and Elko Region History; Lee Livestock Ranch History; Energy Conversion; Wildlife and Private Lands Biodiversity; and Collaborative Riparian Management. Educators were gifted with an educational tool, At Home on the Range, published by the Montana 4-H Center for Youth Development. Educators, once again, took away new impressions of how livestock management works to enhance wildlife and environmental values. Many good discussions took place as the group was made welcome. The ranch day offers opportunities for each participant to gain an understanding of other interests, viewpoints and needs, in a welcoming and friendly setting.

Northeastern Nevada Stewardship Group has a keen desire to continue providing the Ranch Tour experience for Nevada Natural Resource Educators Council “LIFE” program.