Los Angeles County is experiencing a quiet resurgence of an age-old practice: sheepherding. As of November 20, 2023, a small flock grazes in the Santa Monica Mountains, offering a unique form of vegetation management and a surprising glimpse into the region’s agricultural past.
A Woolly Solution to Wildfire Risk
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The return of sheep to Southern California hillsides isn’t about quaint nostalgia; it’s a strategic move to reduce wildfire fuel.
- Sheep are being used as “living lawnmowers” to clear brush and reduce wildfire risk in Los Angeles County.
- The practice is a callback to the region’s history, when sheepherding was common in the hills.
- The current operation is a collaboration between a private rancher and local fire prevention agencies.
- The sheep’s grazing helps to create defensible space around communities and infrastructure.
What exactly is driving this unusual return to pastoralism in a major metropolitan area? The answer lies in the escalating threat of wildfires and the search for environmentally friendly mitigation strategies. Sheep, it turns out, are remarkably effective at consuming dry grasses and brush that fuel these blazes.
From Historical Practice to Modern Solution
Sheepherding once thrived in the hills surrounding Los Angeles, but gradually disappeared as urbanization expanded. Now, the practice is being revived as a natural and sustainable way to manage vegetation. “It’s a really cool way to get ahead of fire season,” said rancher Nick DiMarco, who manages the flock currently grazing near Malibu.
The current operation involves approximately 200 sheep and a dedicated shepherd, carefully managing the flock’s movements to maximize grazing efficiency. The animals are rotated between different areas to prevent overgrazing and allow vegetation to recover. The project is a collaboration between DiMarco’s ranch and the Los Angeles County Fire Department, demonstrating a growing willingness to explore innovative solutions to the wildfire crisis.
A Natural Approach to Fire Prevention
Unlike mechanical brush clearing, which can be disruptive to the environment, sheep grazing offers a more gentle and ecologically sound approach. Their manure also acts as a natural fertilizer, promoting healthy plant growth. The sheep are particularly effective at targeting invasive species, helping to restore native vegetation.
Q: How do sheep help prevent wildfires?
A: Sheep consume dry grasses and brush, reducing the amount of fuel available for wildfires to ignite and spread, creating a natural firebreak and supporting ecological health.
The use of sheep isn’t without its challenges. Protecting the flock from predators, such as coyotes and mountain lions, requires constant vigilance. Managing the sheep’s movements and ensuring they don’t stray into populated areas also demands careful planning and coordination. However, the benefits of this natural fire prevention method are proving to be well worth the effort.
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Flock?
The success of the current sheepherding operation has sparked interest in expanding the program to other areas of Los Angeles County. Fire officials are exploring the possibility of deploying additional flocks to further reduce wildfire risk and promote sustainable land management practices. The return of the sheep to Southern California’s hillsides represents a promising step towards a more resilient and fire-safe future.
Do you have thoughts on this innovative approach to wildfire prevention? Share your comments below.
