In this workshop, we had an excellent lineup of panelists to discuss how to approach starting a solar grazing business. They covered planning tips for a general sheep enterprise, as well as what unique costs and factors new graziers experience.

Before getting into the panel discussion, we heard from Jake Thorne, the Assistant Professor and Extension Sheep & Goat Specialist from Texas A&M. Jake presented on basic sheep enterprise planning before opening the discussion up to our panelists, who shared their experiences on developing their solar grazing businesses.

The speakers discussed how solar grazing represents a significant business opportunity for sheep producers by transforming traditional sheep enterprise economics. Solar grazing allows for diversified income streams, reduced land costs, operational flexibility, and a sustainable model.

Additionally, specific investments beyond traditional sheep enterprises were covered. Solar graziers require transportation to and from sites as well as vegetation management tools. For solar sites without on-site water, graziers are responsible for providing it themselves for their flock. Like traditional operations, many solar graziers use livestock guardian dogs and electric fencing.

The speakers covered how geographic location significantly impacts operational requirements. For example, northern regions typically require plans for overwintering, whereas southern areas may allow year-round grazing. Parasite pressure, predator challenges, and vegetation types will also vary by region. To accommodate for these differences, graziers can choose sheep breeds best suited for their site and location characteristics.

Solar grazing operations often require a hybrid approach, balancing grazing with mechanical management. Graziers can manage their stocking densities to assist with vegetation management while maintaining nutritional requirements of their flock. It is important to recognize that sites may need time to develop pasture-like conditions that maximize sheep management. To stay within site requirements, graziers can provide other means, such as mowing, to account for forage that sheep won’t consume.

Finally, the speakers covered the business benefits of solar grazing. Solar grazing contracts can create a sustainable business model by covering operating expenses with additional revenue from lamb sales. The industry can provide opportunities to scale up operations faster than traditional sheep farming, while providing ecological services and maintaining agricultural production.