GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) – Grand Island Utilities is using a flock of sheep this summer to manage vegetation at its solar farm, partnering with local shepherd Garrett Didier as an alternative to mechanical mowing.
Didier’s sheep are grazing around the solar panels to control grass and weeds across the 46-acre site throughout the growing season.
Grand Island Utilities production engineer Jayson Rezek said the approach offers several advantages over conventional equipment.
“In previous years we have mowed it and it does work, but it is 46 acres, so it does take quite a bit of effort to get out here and get all 46 acres mowed continuously,” Rezek said. “In addition to that, navigating equipment between the rows is quite tedious and it’s quite a bit safer to have the sheep out here.”
Didier said he plans to remove the ewes from the site in August or September, depending on forage conditions.
“I plan on pulling the ewes out of here about August or September and I’ll gauge to see where the forage is as far as the height and whatnot and I’ll just go from there,” Didier said. “If I need to add more ewes next year, take a few off. It all depends on what kind of forage is out here in August and September.”
Didier said he hopes the arrangement becomes a multi-year partnership, describing it as mutually beneficial for him and the city.
The sheep will graze the site as needed throughout the growing season. Grand Island Utilities describes the solar farm as part of its ongoing efforts to provide reliable electric service while incorporating sustainable operational practices.
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