The paper discusses the choice of models for managing rangelands, contrasting the traditional "range succession model" with the "state-and-transition model." The range succession model, which has been widely used, assumes a single persistent state (climax) under equilibrium grazing conditions, with transitions driven by grazing pressure. However, this model has limitations, particularly in arid and semiarid regions, where vegetation changes are often discontinuous, irreversible, or influenced by climatic events. In contrast, the state-and-transition model describes rangelands through catalogs of alternative states and possible transitions between them. Transitions are triggered by both climatic circumstances and management actions, such as grazing, fire, or removal of grazing. This model emphasizes the importance of timing and flexibility in management, focusing on seizing opportunities and avoiding hazards. The paper argues that the state-and-transition model is more suitable for managing rangelands, especially in arid and semiarid regions, where episodic events and intermittent influences play a significant role. Research under this model would aim to improve the catalogues of states and transitions, estimate frequencies of relevant climatic circumstances, and test hypotheses experimentally. Management would be opportunistic, aiming to maximize positive transitions and minimize negative ones. The paper also discusses the implications for research, management, and administration under the state-and-transition model, suggesting that research should focus on experimental testing of hypotheses, management should be opportunistic and oriented towards positive improvement, and administrative reforms should encourage proactive and flexible management practices.The paper discusses the choice of models for managing rangelands, contrasting the traditional "range succession model" with the "state-and-transition model." The range succession model, which has been widely used, assumes a single persistent state (climax) under equilibrium grazing conditions, with transitions driven by grazing pressure. However, this model has limitations, particularly in arid and semiarid regions, where vegetation changes are often discontinuous, irreversible, or influenced by climatic events. In contrast, the state-and-transition model describes rangelands through catalogs of alternative states and possible transitions between them. Transitions are triggered by both climatic circumstances and management actions, such as grazing, fire, or removal of grazing. This model emphasizes the importance of timing and flexibility in management, focusing on seizing opportunities and avoiding hazards. The paper argues that the state-and-transition model is more suitable for managing rangelands, especially in arid and semiarid regions, where episodic events and intermittent influences play a significant role. Research under this model would aim to improve the catalogues of states and transitions, estimate frequencies of relevant climatic circumstances, and test hypotheses experimentally. Management would be opportunistic, aiming to maximize positive transitions and minimize negative ones. The paper also discusses the implications for research, management, and administration under the state-and-transition model, suggesting that research should focus on experimental testing of hypotheses, management should be opportunistic and oriented towards positive improvement, and administrative reforms should encourage proactive and flexible management practices.