Grazing in Vineyards Field Day at Paicines Ranch

Join us at Paicines Ranch Vineyard for an immersive half-day field day exploring sheep grazing as part of a complete regenerative ecosystem approach to winegrowing. This interactive gathering will be led by Kelly Mulville (Paicines Ranch), Tommy Fenster (UC Davis / Ecdysis Foundation) and Chris Storm (Starr and Storm Crop Solutions) and will show how strategic grazing creates beneficial reciprocity throughout the entire vineyard system—from soil microbiome to wildlife habitat to wine quality and terroir expression.

The workshop will cover the underlying principles and science behind regenerative grazing while addressing practical implementation strategies. You’ll learn how to align grazing patterns with seasonal ecology and vine development stages, determine flock sizing and timing, fencing options that support wildlife movement, and year-round grazing opportunities that enhance vineyard operations. We’ll discuss how this systems approach strengthens local networks, creates economic resilience through diversified farm income, and builds community connections between winegrowers and livestock producers.

Whether you’re a vineyard manager, winemaker, or agricultural professional, this workshop offers actionable insights into livestock grazing as part of a holistic practice that produces exceptional wine while supporting biodiversity, climate resilience, and community well-being.

This field day is hosted by the Paicines Ranch Learning Center in partnership with Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) and Community Alliance with Family Farmers (CAFF).