Viewpoint: Synthesis, range management science, and the Journal of Range Management

Abstract

This paper analyzes the kinds of publications that are currently accepted by the Journal of Range Management, and in view of the evolving identity of range science, proposes a review of the those kinds of papers by the Editorial Board. The paper explores the kinds of papers that would help the Journal in identifying and developing range management science. It suggests a modified emphasis directed at increasing conceptual creativity, and developing explicit, integrative linkages and communications of range management science. In practice, this revision involves increased publication of synthesis papers, and increased emphasis of synthesis in the Journal's publications in general. Major benefits to the Journal would likely be increased diversity of published papers, broader professional diversity of authorship, increased readership, and increased effectiveness in serving and encouraging range management science.