• Rangeland management research has historically focused on the ecological dimensions of these unique ecosystems, but the social dimensions of rangeland management have been understudied. • Considering rangelands as complex socio-ecological systems, we offer a framework to provide insights into how increased engagement of social science research can improve the management of contemporary rangeland ecosystems. • We posit the framework within shifting socio-demographic conditions experienced in contemporary rangeland systems, which include an increasing diversity in the socio-demographics of rangeland managers; an increasing number of younger ranchers inheriting or purchasing ranches from aging ranchers; and an increasing presence of exurban migrants moving from cities to rural areas. • Within this context, our framework centers its attention on contemporary rangeland managers and discusses their relationship with different relevant social institutions and natural resources while offering insights on how social science research can facilitate a better understanding and more up-to-date information concerning these relationships. © 2022 The Society for Range Management The Rangelands archives are made available by the Society for Range Management and the University of Arizona Libraries. Contact lbry-journals@email.arizona.edu for further information.
Practical, non-technical peer-reviewed articles published by the Society for Range Management. Access articles on a rolling-window basis from vol 1, 1979 up to 3 years from the current year. More recent content is available by subscription from SRM.