Krista Ehlert
Biography
Education
- Ph.D. in ecology and environmental sciences | Montana State University | 2017
- M.S. in land resources and environmental sciences | Montana State University | 2013
- B.A. in biology | St. Olaf College | 2011
Academic and Professional Experience
Academic Interests
In my role, I connect with producers and partners to better understand how to utilize management strategies to improve our natural resources in South Dakota. I am particularly proud of the work that I do with beginning producers as well as women and youth. I enjoy being part of interdisciplinary teams that tackle research questions through innovative approaches, and provide actionable results to beef cattle producers across South Dakota and the Northern Great Plains.
- Cooperative Extension
- Rangeland ecology
- Plant ecology
- Ecologically-based invasive plant management
Committees and Professional Memberships
- Rangelands Partnership
- Society for Range Management
Extension Responsibilities
I am responsible for Extension programming and research related to South Dakota rangelands. This includes developing collaborations with other SDSU faculty, as well as non-profits, state and federal agencies, such as The Nature Conservancy, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, Natural Resources Conservation Service and Bureau of Land Management.
Research and Scholar Work
Areas of Research
- Range ecology
- Low-cost, low-tech process-based riparian restoration
- Virtual fencing
Awards and Honors
- 2023, Nominated - Society for Range Management, Outstanding Young Range Professional
- 2022, 葫芦影业 Extension Creativity in Service in All South Dakotan鈥檚 Award
Grants
- Over $84.4 million funded, including 20 grants funded for a total of $4.4 million and an $80 million Climate Smart grant awarded in 2023
