Hands-On Learning Takes Root at the 61st Annual Nebraska Youth Range Camp
- Ashley Garrelts
- Jun 19
- 2 min read
Twenty-two high school students from across the state traveled to Chadron State College for the 61st Annual Nebraska Youth Range Camp. The event provided the students with an intensive, hands-on learning experience, focusing on a diverse array of topics essential for sustainable rangeland stewardship. Over the course of the camp, participants engaged in educational sessions and practical exercises designed to deepen their understanding of ecological principles and management techniques.
Range Camp kicked off with foundational introductions and networking. Presentations on critical aspects of plant physiology, soil health, and ecological sites provided a biological basis for understanding rangeland ecosystems. Participants gained knowledge through hands-on plant identification of at least 40 local plants. Speakers also addressed contemporary challenges with a presentation on cedar encroachment and prescribed burning. Practical management strategies were covered with discussions on grazing systems, stocking rates, and ranch economics. To highlight the biodiversity and ecological balance of these areas, students also learned about rangeland insects, wildlife, and birds.
Recreational events throughout the week, including games and a Range Camp rodeo, fostered teamwork, camaraderie, and added a level of competition. Campers, along with their teammates, competed against other “crews” to gain points for the overall top crew. Range Camp culminated in a comprehensive exam covering speaker presentation topics, and a final Range Judging contest allowed students to demonstrate their acquired knowledge of plant identification and ecological sites.
The Nebraska Youth Range Camp is dedicated to fostering the next generation of rangeland conservationists, equipping them with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to manage and protect these invaluable natural resources for the future.
