This webinar introduced ASGA’s updated Solar Grazing Master Services Agreement (MSA) Template, highlighting key revisions made to reflect the rapid growth and evolving needs of the solar grazing industry since the last update in 2022. Developed in collaboration with the Food and Farm Business Law Clinic at Pace University and informed by feedback from experienced graziers and solar industry representatives, the updated template strengthens guidance around vegetation maintenance standards, delayed grazing commencement, late payment provisions, and notification requirements for maintenance and emergency situations. Presenters Hope Newkirk and Andrew Lander from Pace Law, joined by Lexie Hain of Lightsource bp and the ASGA Board, explained the reasoning behind the changes and discussed best practices for creating clear agreements between sheep graziers and solar site operators through the use of a standardized MSA and site-specific Statements of Work.

Download the contract here.

Contract Overview and Structure
The ASGA Solar Grazing Contract Template uses a two-part structure consisting of a Master Services Agreement (MSA) and site-specific Statements of Work (SOWs). The MSA establishes the overarching relationship between the grazier and solar company, including standard terms, insurance, termination provisions, animal management responsibilities, subcontracting, and vegetation management expectations. Individual SOWs define site-specific details such as location, vegetation standards, service schedules, payment terms, and operational requirements. This modular structure allows multiple projects to operate under a single agreement framework while maintaining flexibility for each site.

2026 Contract Updates
The 2026 revisions maintain the existing MSA/SOW framework while incorporating industry feedback and operational lessons learned. Key updates include revised terminology shifting from “sheep grazing” to “solar grazing,” expanded vegetation management language recognizing hybrid management practices, delayed commencement protections for graziers, structured late payment provisions, and updated notification requirements for maintenance or emergency conditions. The revisions also strengthen site manager responsibilities related to communication, site access, and operational coordination.

How to Use the Template
The template is designed to be customized collaboratively by the grazier and solar company. Parties first tailor the MSA by reviewing negotiable provisions such as insurance requirements, delay protections, termination terms, and optional riders. Site-specific SOWs are then created for each grazing location, outlining acreage, vegetation standards, schedules, payment structures, and any unique operational terms. Once executed, multiple SOWs may operate simultaneously under a single MSA.

Key Contract Provisions
The updated template includes expanded payment protections, allowing for negotiated late fees, interest on overdue invoices, and service suspension for nonpayment. Grazing is identified as the primary vegetation management method while permitting supplemental mechanical or targeted vegetation control when needed. New delayed commencement provisions establish notification requirements, extension timelines, and compensation options when project start dates are postponed. Additional sections clarify subcontracting requirements, liability standards, insurance expectations, and site access rights for both parties.

Best Practices Highlighted in the Webinar
Webinar presenters emphasized the importance of clear communication, providing graziers with as much advance notice as possible regarding site schedules or delays, and approaching unforeseen conditions collaboratively. They also noted that hybrid vegetation management has become common across the industry, while reinforcing that grazing should remain the primary management strategy whenever feasible.