Principles and concepts of usable science for sustainable rangelands

How do we know we are doing the “right” science to address the challenges facing society in general or rangeland managers more specifically? Usable science meets the changing needs of decision makers. It differs from our standard linear understanding of the link between knowledge production and use. The process of identifying usable science starts with a knowledge user’s need, rather than a research question. Given that rangeland research funding will remain competitive, how can we align on-the-ground scientific information needs with topics being considered by rangeland researchers and funding organizations?