Integrating Sheep into Orchard Systems

Modern agriculture in the U.S. has normalized the separation of animal agriculture from growing crops, but many producers have found there’s much to be gained from integrating livestock back into cropping systems. Sierra Orchards in Winters, CA has successfully integrated sheep into their organic walnut orchards for several years and has learned many lessons along the way. In this video, join farmer Sean McNamara as he walks us through Sierra Orchards’ integrated sheep in walnuts system.

Produced by Sara Tiffany

Filmed and Edited by Anne Hamersky

Thank you to our Sponsors:
Farm Credit
Regenerative Agriculture Foundation
Straus Family Creamery
Farm Box
Johnny's Selected Seeds
Bay Cities Produce Inc
High Mowing Organic Seeds
Sacramento Natural Foods Co-op
MarketLink / NAFMNP
Center for Land-Based Learning
ManageMyMarket

[RichM-vcon]

It's sad this does not have more likes and views. After watching a half dozen other similar subject videos, this was by far the best. Good information, presented well, with quality sound. Nice job! It is great to see farms learning to do things the old ways with modern twists.

[chuckschembre]

This is incredible information. I work as a regenerative consult and work in orchards and you have provide information, and the timing and stock density conversation is often missed in these types of videos. Well done

[mlindsay]

You are right, it is not easy, but it does make perfect sense! Glad to see you working through the issues! I’m doing it a bit the other way around and establishing an orchard in a sheep pasture.

[jacopoorazi]

This video should have tons of views! Very good and detailed info, love it!

[b_uppy]

Do you alternate rows of the types of trees for maximum soil health/fertility?

[allseezen]

so good. could you add more bird habitat to help control scale and mite issues? some mites dont like rosemary oil, but...

[FLASHDashAway]

Do you know of any colder climate orchards that do this?