Concerned about wildfire risk in Carson City? Learn how the city is deploying sheep for wildfire fuel reduction as part of an annual program. This article details the program’s implementation, offering vital safety information, and explaining the science behind using grazing animals to mitigate the threat of wildfires.
Carson City Deploys Sheep for Wildfire Fuel Reduction
Carson City, Nev. —
Annual Grazing Program Aims to Mitigate Wildfire risk
The carson City Parks, Recreation and Open space Department has initiated its annual fuel reduction program, utilizing grazing sheep in the western hills of Carson City. This initiative is designed to reduce wildfire risk by managing vegetation.
A Proactive Approach to Wildfire Prevention
Established following the devastating 2004 Waterfall Fire,the program represents a collaborative effort.Partners include the city, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, Nevada Division of State Lands, the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and california, Carson Community Council, and private property owners. This multi-faceted approach underscores the community’s commitment to wildfire prevention.
Targeted grazing is frequently enough used to reduce the amount, height, and continuity of vegetation [1].
2,400 Sheep to Graze Through May
According to a news release from city officials, This year, there will be two bands of sheep grazing in Carson City, totaling approximately 2,400 sheep.
- First Band: Expected to arrive between April 5 and April 10, walking in from Washoe County near Timberline, behind Western Nevada College.
- Second Band: Will be trucked in and unloaded in the hills behind Greenhouse Garden Center, starting approximately Saturday, April 12.
The sheep will continue grazing in Carson City through the end of May.
Vital Information for Hikers and Dog Owners
The parks department encourages residents to observe the sheep. However, they also advise caution:
- Leash dogs or leave them at home when hiking to prevent conflicts.
- Be aware that
there will also be guard dogs accompanying the sheep for protection from predators,
according to the release. - Heed temporary signage placed at trailheads indicating active grazing areas. Sheep will graze specific areas for approximately 3-7 days.
Additionally, remember to maintain distance from the sheep and avoid loud noises or running while observing them.
Stay Informed
For alternate hiking and biking locations, visit carson.org/trails.
Additional information about the grazing program can be found at carson.org/sheep.
To report a wayward sheep, contact the parks department at 775-887-2262.
The Science Behind Grazing for Wildfire Mitigation
Grazing by sheep is a lasting approach to land stewardship and wildfire mitigation [3].By removing dry grasses and brush, sheep create natural firebreaks, reducing fuel loads and slowing the potential spread of wildfires in high-risk areas. This method is particularly effective in managing cheatgrass, an invasive species that quickly becomes a fire hazard.
Flocks of sheep are now being used to manage fires as megadrought exacerbated by climate change contribute to record-breaking fire seasons in the Western U.S.
