Conservation scientists manage, develop, and help protect soil and rangelands.

There are two main areas of conservation science:

• Soil and water conservation
• Range management

Both types of conservation scientists work to use land and water sustainably, but each focuses on a different area.

Soil and water conservationists determine the best ways to use land and water for farming. They perform many tests to make sure the land is healthy. They calculate the most efficient ways to irrigate crops in different areas and to decrease the loss of topsoil. They also help landowners deal with erosion and develop ways to use land efficiently without damaging it.

Range managers protect rangelands and work to prevent and reduce wildfires and invasive species. They help restore habitats and develop management plans to maintain soil stability and plant diversity for wildlife and grazing animals. They may also plan and oversee construction of fences, corrals, watering reservoirs, and soil-erosion barriers. They may also manage recreation areas that are part of rangelands. Range managers are also called range scientists, range ecologists, or range conservationists.

Despite their different focus, these two types of conservation scientists have similar tasks. They study how land is currently used and any problems caused by that use. They may locate water sources; study how pollution enters rivers and lakes; test how fast water evaporates from farms; and time how fast topsoil erodes. They may also find ways to rehabilitate land after clear cutting, fires, or floods.

Conservation scientists use computers to collect, interpret, and share information. They may enter information in databases and websites for others to read on the Internet. They use software such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to take information and display it on computerized maps. They may map water and air quality, underground water sources, or the health of forests and grasslands.

Conservation scientists must consider land use and environmental protection laws in their plans. They often write reports about plans. They may talk to the people the plan affects, such as farmers, ranchers, and mining companies. Occasionally, they testify at hearings when disagreements arise with property owners. Once a plan is finalized, conservation scientists monitor projects to make sure landowners follow plans. They occasionally visit landowners and inspect their land-use practices.