Karen Launchbaugh, Ph.D., wins the 2024 Frederic G. Renner Award
January 29, 2024
The FREDERIC G. RENNER AWARD is the most prestigious award bestowed by the Society for Range Management. The primary criterion for selection of a recipient for this award is sustained outstanding accomplishments in, or continuing contributions to, any aspect of range science and range management by an active and contributing member of the Society. One award can be given annually, and it has been awarded to our very own Karen Launchbaugh, Ph.D., this year!
Karen Launchbaugh’s remarkable contributions have left an indelible mark on the field of rangeland management and the Society for Range Management (SRM). Her extensive contributions in teaching, research, and service to the profession and SRM demonstrate continued and enduring commitments to rangeland management and education.
One of Karen’s greatest contributions has been teaching students and advancing rangeland education. She has influenced and inspired thousands of students in the U.S. and internationally. She has developed websites and teaching modules and produced videos that are used in classes and workshops worldwide. Karen is known for her dedication to student success, mentorship of developing rangeland professionals, and efforts to welcome diverse participants to the rangeland profession.
Karen’s seminal contribution to rangeland research is her pioneering effort to define and set the foundation for targeted grazing. She is dedicated to researching the intricacies of livestock grazing behavior, vegetation management, and ecological dynamics.
Karen has been a committed member and leader in SRM for 45 years, serving at section and international levels on committees, Board of Directors, co-chair of SRM’s first virtual meeting, and, most recently, President of SRM. Karen’s contributions have been recognized through a multitude of awards, including U.S. Professor of the Year (Idaho); RSEC Outstanding Undergraduate Teacher; SRM Outstanding Achievement in Research/Academia; and Utah State University’s Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award. She unfailingly generates enthusiasm and inspiration among young rangeland management professionals.
About the University of Idaho
The University of Idaho, home of the Vandals, is Idaho’s land-grant, national research university. From its residential campus in Moscow, U of I serves the state of Idaho through educational centers in Boise, Coeur d’Alene and Idaho Falls, nine research and Extension centers, plus Extension offices in 42 counties. Home to more than 12,000 students statewide, U of I is a leader in student-centered learning and excels at interdisciplinary research, service to businesses and communities, and in advancing diversity, citizenship and global outreach. U of I competes in the Big Sky and Western Athletic conferences. Learn more at uidaho.edu.