Rinker Rock Creek Ranch
Rinker Rock Creek Ranch is a unique research, education, and outreach facility, offering a living laboratory for hands-on understanding of rangeland resource management, conservation and recreation. This working ranch combines good science and best practices for Idaho’s rangeland owners and managers.
The 10,400-acre parcel, near Hailey, Idaho, is collaboratively managed with and the to conserve the area’s resources and prevent future development. The University of Idaho acts as the research and outreach arm of the three-pronged collaboration.
Life On the Range
A unique partnership between the Wood River Land Trust, The Nature Conservancy and the University of Idaho guides education, research and management of the Rinker Rock Creek Ranch.
Research at Rinker Rock Creek Ranch
Rinker Rock Creek Ranch is an outstanding place for rangeland research opportunities:
- The public land grazing allotments combined with the private land include almost the entire watershed, allowing researchers to control most of the uses that will affect research results.
- Having both private and public lands is similar to most ranch operations in Idaho.
- The natural habitats on the ranch are in good condition and wildlife of interest - including sage-grouse and pygmy rabbits – are present.
- There is limited development of roads and buildings.
- It is centrally located in southern Idaho and easily accessible to researchers and partners.
In addition to research, Rinker Rock Creek Ranch is open to the public for recreation opportunities such as hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, hunting, and snowmobiling. Check our Events page for more information about upcoming tours and/or outreach and educational events that may be coming up.
Current research projects on the ranch include:
- Livestock grazing impact on sage-grouse resources
- Effects of spring grazing on sage-grouse populations
- Using satellite imagery to inform grazing decisions
- Efficiency of livestock grazing in range versus irrigated pasture
- Causes of weed invasion
- Impact of grazing on willows
- 2018 Grazing Plan pdf
- Rinker Rock Creek Celebration Ceremony
- Here we have Idaho
- Rinker Rock Creek Info Sheet pdf
- FAQ pdf
- Memorandum of Understanding Between U of I Wood River Land Trust and The Nature Conservancy pdf