Description: Rutherford, California | 126.6 hectares This project implements high-density, short-duration rotational sheep grazing within vineyard systems to actively enhance ecosystem functioning. Through careful management of soil and herbaceous cover in the vineyard understory, this practice improves soil health, reduces reliance on herbicides and mowing, and enhances carbon storage. Targeted grazing also promotes biodiversity, mitigates wildfire risk, and supports on-farm nutrient cycling. The collaboration between Grgich Hills Estate vineyard and Kaos Sheep Grazing Outfit highlights the transformative potential of managed grazing, particularly in boosting soil health and increasing carbon content. The Benefits of Contract Grazing in Vineyard Systems Since achieving organic certification in 2000, Grgich Hills has been a leader in sustainable agriculture. In 2021, they adopted regenerative grazing practices, advancing their commitment to holistic farming. When properly managed, grazing enhances underground carbon storage through processes such as root shedding and the stimulation of microbial activity. The organic waste produced by grazing animals revitalizes soil by improving nutrient cycling and decreasing dependence on synthetic fertilizers. Furthermore, grazing naturally mitigates wildfire risks by reducing the density of fire-prone vegetation. Thoughtful integration of grazing into cropping systems draws atmospheric carbon into the soil, bolstering drought resilience and contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. Kaos Sheep Outfit in Lake County, California, offers a prime example of managed grazing’s ecological benefits. As part of the Fibershed producer network, this skilled team of shepherds employs Corriedale sheep to graze diverse landscapes, including areas specifically targeted for wildfire mitigation. Kaos is deeply invested in research that underscores the positive effects of managed grazing on soil health and carbon content, particularly in perennial and mixed-crop systems. Such studies have the potential to inspire broader collaborations between ranchers, farmers, and shepherds, paving the way for innovative carbon farming solutions. Challenges in Managed Grazing Despite its ecological benefits gaining wider recognition, contract grazers like Kaos face significant financial challenges due to rising costs, threatening the sustainability of their critical work. Addressing these challenges is essential to ensure the continued success of such environmentally beneficial practices. Project outline: https://regen-registry.s3.amazonaws.com/registry/KSH01-Sheep-Grazing-in-Vineyard-Systems-Credit-Class/Projects/KSH01-001/project-documentation/Grgich+Hills+Estate+Project+Plan.pdf
Escrow: regen1qyg8d3usj0gjlmag6ns8wmp52m653kv7hrevuh
Priority: 4
Type: Biodiversity
Price: 23.5
Method: Biodiversity
Location: Rutherford, California, United States
Registry: Regen Registry
Class: Sheep Grazing in Vineyard Systems
Verifier: Regen Network Development Science Team
Batch: KSH01-001-20230101-20230501-001
Status: Active
Methodology: Methodology for Grazing in Vineyard Systems
Protocol: Regen Registry Credit Issuer
Certifications: Regen Network Development Science Team