SRM survey and membership shifts demonstrate “change on the range”

Abstract

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  The Society for Range Management (SRM) is a long-standing international organization in range science and management that strives to maintain diverse membership. With global leaders advocating for diverse perspectives in rangeland stewardship, shifts in SRM membership can inform how participation in range professions is changing.
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  We surveyed SRM members in 2021 to assess member demographics, engagement and perceived values, and priorities for SRM.
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  Results showed demographic shifts from 1992 to 2021, with increasing representation of women (34.8%) and people of color (15.4%), especially in younger age groups (22-41). We provided the first data on veterans (10.6%), persons with disabilities (5.7%), and the LGBTQ+ community (6%).
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  Networking was the most frequently reported value of SRM membership (82%). Most respondents engaged with multiple professional disciplines (71%), and the inclusion of diverse perspectives was a common 10-year priority. Overall, 65% of respondents felt SRM should be a leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion (i.e., DEI) for natural resource professions.
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  Participation in SRM has diversified by some metrics, but findings highlighted the importance of diverse viewpoints and social connections for engagement. Based on these data, we identified strategies to advance SRM's mission and engage a broader range of members’ experiences and perspectives.