Environmental Impact and Sustainability

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Grazing

The farm philosophy is simple, raise healthy sheep.  One of the ways we accomplish this is through the use of  grazing,  stocking rates, and feeding hay when grass is not available.  Grazing is a strategy in which the sheep are periodically alternated between fields  and kept off of others for a period of time trying to keep the grass at a minimum of 4 inches in height.  This is effective in preventing overgrazing, reducing worms, and improving the soil quality.    I see my job, as a grazer of sheep, to be two fold. 1)  A grass farmer improving the land without the use of chemical fertilizers and without the overhead equipment costs of required for producing hay.   My goal is to have as close to possible, 100% year round grazing. 2)   A livestock breeder and wool producer proving at all times the healthiest environment I can along with the best with the nutrition I can .

Maximum grass growth

Grazing management reduces the amount of overgrazing done to the fields and keeps the grasses at a height for maximum growth (4 inches to 6 inches).

Internal Parasite Reduction

Grazing management keeps the flock in a clean environment which reduces disease and helps with parasite control.  The majority opf parasites  are on the blade of grass between 1-3 inches.

Soil Quality

Grazing improves the quality of the soil and eliminates the need for fertilizers by allowing for a uniform distribution of urine and manure.