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Numerous studies have shown that students who work actively to research, discuss, and perform experiments gain a deeper understanding of concepts within the field of rangeland sciences. To increase the number of students reaching this deeper level of understanding in the rangeland program at FHSU, we implemented a small-scale restoration project that allows students to experience firsthand the research design and data collection process, practice species identification of numerous organisms, gain field experience and skills, and relate information learned in classrooms to real world settings. The Howard Reynolds Natural Area (HRNA) was created on Sternberg Museum of Natural History property in 2010 and since its establishment has been in a continual state of decline. The HNRA is currently undergoing numerous restorations activities to increase the ecological integrity of the area and make it more appealing to both the citizens of Hays and native wildlife. Our objective is to determine if these restoration activities will have an influence on any of the biological communities present in the area. To determine these restoration activities have an effect on the small mammal community preliminary trapping data was collected. Our trapping seasons resulted in the capture of five different species. Initial data collection has been expanded to include amphibians and reptiles, ground beetles, ants, mosquitos, plants, and soil microbial communities. These restoration and data collection efforts have engaged seven different undergraduate student researchers who have or will present their results at professional meetings and over forty student volunteers. This project is a win-win-win-win situation for the students, the HNRA, the community of Hays, and the biological communities. This ongoing project will provide years of research and field experience to the undergraduate and graduate students as well as opportunities to mentor younger students and educate the public.