Science Communication & Engagement at Rannells Ranch
What is Science Communication and Why is it Important?
At Rannells Ranch, science communication makes rangeland research understandable and useful beyond academia. We turn research findings into practical tools for everyday users, such as community members, land managers, and educators. We also help legislators, journalists, and other decision-makers recognize the value of long-term research sites.
Science engagement takes this a step further by creating a two-way collaboration between producers and researchers, supporting land stewardship, grazing management, and rural community development.
Best Practices in Science Communication
Science communication is a practical skill for field scientists, graduate students, Extension specialists, and research teams working in the Flint Hills. Effective communication practices help us translate grazing research, beef cattle science, and range sciences results from Rannells Ranch into knowledge that producers, policymakers, and partners can actually use.
Visit the link below for more tips and information
9 Tips for Communicating Science to People Who Are Not Scientists
Elevator Speeches
An elevator speech is a short, clear summary of your work if you had to explain it to someone during a single ride in an elevator. It captures attention quickly and conveys why your project matters to the audience. Whether describing soil monitoring in the Flint Hills or sharing practical tools for land managers, a concise message is key.
Here are some further tips for creating an effective elevator speech: Tips for giving a powerful elevator pitch.
Communication Toolkits
The communication toolkits provide guidance for researchers, instructors, and extension personnel to build effective skills to communicate and engage with the public about research happening at Rannells Ranch. Current toolkits are linked here.
Brand Guide
Rannells Ranch is a facility of Kansas State University. Whenever possible, use Rannells Ranch branding when communicating about projects occurring on the ranch. All design and communication materials created should follow the K-State brand guidance. Click here for proper logo usage, colors, and editorial style.
The Need for Science Communication
Across agriculture and natural resources, research must be communicated in ways that are clear, relevant, and usable. Science communication helps connect knowledge to real-world decisions through clear messaging, storytelling, and visual tools that make complex ideas more understandable.
The following story and video highlight how research is shared and brought to life for those it is meant to serve.
Need Support? Our Science Communication Team Can Help
Do you need help putting these practices into action? Work with our science communication team for one-on-one support, workshop materials, and help translate your rangeland research into clear, usable stories.