At first glance, sheep and solar panels might seem like they belong in two completely different conversations.
One represents a way of farming that’s been around for generations.
The other represents a newer way of producing energy.
But in Decorah, they’re sharing the same piece of ground.
On Thursday, October 1, Northeast Iowa residents will have an opportunity to see that unusual partnership firsthand during a Solar Energy and Sheep Grazing Tour at Luther College.
The tour will visit the Luther College Center for Sustainable Community’s solar grazing operation, where approximately 2.5 acres of land are being used for both meat and energy production.
And that’s where the sheep come in. 🐑
Instead of looking at the land surrounding solar panels as space that can serve only one purpose, this project offers visitors a chance to see how agriculture and energy production can share the same ground.
During the tour, visitors can see the operation firsthand and ask questions of participating grazers and Luther College faculty members with experience in land management.
The program is being presented by the Iowa R~STEP collaborative and Winneshiek Energy District.
Those attending will meet at the Ashmore~Jewell Parking Lot, 900 College Drive in Decorah, at 4:45 p.m. and shuttle to the solar array. The tour runs until 6:30 p.m., and light refreshments will be provided.
It’s an interesting little picture of agriculture’s future:
Sunlight overhead.
Grass underneath.
Solar panels producing energy.
And sheep quietly doing what sheep have been doing for a very long time.
Sometimes something new doesn’t have to replace something old.
Sometimes the two can simply share the pasture. 🐑☀️🌱
Deliverance Hope ~ word-round-town.com
Keep Goin’ ‘Round Town
There’s always another story waiting just around the corner.