‘Living Dirt’ important subject of first 2025 Wildlife Study Series
The important topic of “Living Dirt” will be discussed during the first Werner Wildlife Study Series for 2026. The talk will be given by Jared James, program coordinator for the Casper College School of Science, Tuesday, Jan. 20, at 6 p.m.
Formed by mosses, lichens, and microbes, soil crusts are the living foundation of Wyoming’s rangelands, according to James. James will discuss how these hidden but powerful biological crusts hold soil in place and shape wildlife habitat, what happens when they are disturbed, and why they matter for the future of the high plains.
James is a recent graduate of Colorado State University’s Master’s program in natural resource stewardship. While his academic work focused on how policy tools, such as categorical exclusions, can make ecological restoration more efficient, particularly in energy-impacted landscapes, James is especially interested in the foundational role of soil systems in maintaining rangeland health.
Before joining Casper College, James taught high school science and served as a community liaison for the Municipality of Anchorage, Alaska.
The Werner Wildlife Study Series takes place in the Africa-Arctic Room of the Werner Wildlife Museum. The family-friendly event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 307-235-2108.
The Werner Wildlife Museum, located off the Casper College campus at 405 E. 15th Street, is free and open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.