Forests and rangelands are always changing, sometimes very slowly as a result of long-term processes, followed by rapid changes as a result of fires, timber harvesting, or grazing. Rangelands occupy nearly fifty percent of the earth's land surface and consist of natural grasslands, savannas, shrublands, riparian areas, deserts, tundra, and coastal marshes. Sustaining forests and rangelands in the modern world requires managers who understand ecosystem changes, and how forests and rangelands connect to global, ecological, and social systems. State and federal land management agencies, private landowners, consultants, and conservation organizations employ graduates of the Forest and Rangeland Stewardship (FRS) major. The curriculum includes a balanced mix of courses in plant and animal biology, integrated resource management, and the physical sciences. Colorado is an ideal setting for the study of forestry and rangeland ecology and management with shortgrass steppe to the east and high elevation grasslands, forests, woodlands, and riparian areas to the west. Students learn about ecosystem productivity, policy, conservation, and the latest in computer-based management tools. Students also gain an understanding of economics related to recognizing alternatives and analytical and decision-making skills, as well as developing communication, political and interpersonal skills to make their education effective, and contribute to their respective fields fully upon graduation.