Dr. Mark Moritz was recently featured in OSU News for his work challenging common misconceptions about deserts and other rangelands. Often viewed as barren or unproductive, these landscapes, including deserts, savannas, and tundra are actually vibrant ecosystems that support diverse wildlife and specialized plants, as well as the pastoralist communities who depend on them. Pastoralists manage herds across these landscapes, producing essential resources such as milk, meat, and wool while helping maintain biodiversity. As the United Nations marks the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, Moritz highlights the importance of mobility and land rights for pastoralist sustainability. His research not only informs global conversations about rangelands but also offers lessons for more sustainable livestock practices closer to home in places like Ohio.

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