Sheep, Solar, and Sunshine: Rethinking Farming in the Adirondacks

What if sheep could help preserve farmland, support renewable energy, and make family farming more sustainable?We’re kicking off our Women in Agriculture series with Rebekah Pierce, co-owner of J&R Pierce Family Farm in West Chazy, New York. Rebekah and her husband, Josh, never planned to become farmers. What began with a few chickens grew into a pasture-based farm raising sheep, cattle, pigs, and poultry across Northern New York.Their turning point was solar grazing. Instead of using mowers to control vegetation around solar panels, energy companies hire farmers to bring in sheep. The animals gain access to fresh pasture, the panels remain clear, and farmland continues producing food while generating renewable energy.Listen for a hopeful look at the future of Adirondack agriculture, where sheep, sunshine, local food, and creative thinking can all share the same field.What you’ll hear in this episodeHow an accidental farm became a full-time business.Why land access changes everything for new farmers.How sheep keep solar sites productive.Why shade can improve pasture quality.How solar grazing created financial stability.What this model could mean for Adirondack farming.Simple ways to support local agriculture.Resources:J&R Pierce Family FarmAmerican Solar Grazing AssociationAdirondack Harvest and Year-Round Local FoodProduced by NOVA