Roxanne C. Rios, M.S.
Plant Ecologist – Conservation Coordinator
(she/her)
Roxanne joined Sageland Collaborative in October 2026, bringing more than 15 years of experience in botany, rangeland science, and natural resource management throughout the western United States. Her work has focused on applied research, native plant establishment, and developing practical approaches to conservation and habitat restoration.
Roxanne completed undergraduate and graduate studies in Plant Biology at Arizona State University, with an emphasis in ecology, environmental science, and biogeochemistry. Before joining Sageland, she worked as a research scientist with the USDA Agricultural Research Service, investigating native seed enhancement technologies and restoration of sagebrush ecosystems. Her professional background also includes water resource management and agricultural planning in partnership with Tribal Nations. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with public agencies, research institutions, and conservation organizations.
At Sageland, Roxanne works to strengthen collaboration among federal and state agencies, conservation organizations, and Tribal Nations to advance recovery efforts for two federally threatened cactus species endemic to Utah's Uinta Basin. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking and exploring the West with her Dutch Shepherd, Xena.