REFLECTIONS FROM THE RANGE: MY INTERNSHIP WITH THE RANGELAND TRUST

My name is Jazmin Rodriguez, and I recently graduated from the University of California, Davis, where I majored in Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems. I grew up in California’s Central Valley, though I did not have a strong personal connection to agriculture beyond living near dairies and almond orchards. My passion for agriculture began in high school when I joined FFA and discovered a bright future for myself within the industry. To continue nurturing this passion, I pursued experiences at UC Davis, including serving as an Aggie Ambassador, working at the Student Farm, and seeking opportunities to expand my understanding of the agricultural landscape.

As I explored my post-graduation goals, I knew I wanted to combine my interests in leadership, producer engagement, and advocacy. When I discovered the Rangeland Trust, I realized the organization embodied all these elements and more through its six-month general internship, funded by the Grand National Rodeo Foundation. This program provides hands-on experience across five departments, and I was eager for an opportunity that would allow me to apply and grow my skills.

Since beginning my internship over the summer, I have gained experience in nearly every area of the organization. I started with the Programs Department, where I helped organize resources and funding opportunities to help soon launch a hub of resources, which will serve as a centralized platform designed to connect ranchers with grant opportunities, educational materials, and industry experts. Though the department is relatively new, it is already making programs more accessible to ranchers and reducing barriers to information. This work plays a key role in advancing the Rangeland Trust’s mission of ensuring healthy and sustainable working lands for future generations.

Following my time with Programs, I transitioned to Conservation and Stewardship, where I learned about the core processes behind conservation easements. I participated in site visits to meet landowners interested in easements, reviewed applications, and joined monitoring visits to ensure the perpetual terms of easements are upheld. Through this department, I saw the foundation of the Rangeland Trust’s work: building strong, lasting relationships with landowners to support successful conservation partnerships.

As I write this article, I am wrapping up my time with the Communications Department. My work here has focused on exciting events, including A Western Affair and preparing for documentary screenings. I have seen a different side of this organization, centered on building and maintaining community. These events honor and celebrate landowner partners and showcase their commitment to protecting working lands, while also bringing awareness to the stories behind its mission. Next, I will continue my internship in the Fund Development and Finance departments to round out my experience across all areas of the organization.

As I reflect on my experience so far, I have truly enjoyed playing a small part in such an impactful organization. In each department, I developed a new skill or strengthened an existing one, but most importantly, I gained a newfound appreciation for ranchers. I learned ranching goes beyond livestock; it is maintaining a healthy relationship with the environment and complementing what has long existed. The fluffy cows are also a plus! Although I have been aware of the challenges faced by producers in the agricultural industry, understanding the ranching perspective broadened my view of how these issues affect daily operations. My biggest takeaway is: Keep ranchers ranching!