The Livestock and Natural Resources program supports sustainable management of rangelands and open spaces through applied research and extension focused on working landscapes, fire protection, watershed health, and ecosystem restoration. Addressing challenges at the urban-rural-wildland interface, the program works with livestock producers, landowners, public agencies, and conservation organizations to promote practices that enhance ecosystem services and ensure long-term land stewardship.

Key efforts include advancing rangeland management strategies such as targeted grazing to reduce fire fuel loads and improve vegetation control. Through workshops and field demonstrations, the program has strengthened local capacity to apply fire-safe land management practices. Collaborative events with partners like the East Bay Regional Park District have improved knowledge among ranchers, firefighters, and land managers, equipping them to better protect open space lands and reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire.

The program is led by Sheila Barry and covers Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, and San Mateo/SF Counties.

Visit the program's Bay Area Working Rangelands webpage. 

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A fires fuel management workshop was held for land managers and ranchers. 92% of participants increased their knowledge of fuels management practices in the East Bay; they will apply this information to protect open space lands and reduce catastrophic wildfire.