800 sheep at Sacramento parks? Here’s how they help — and where you can see for yourself
There are 800 fluffy sheep roaming Sacramento parks this spring — and you can see them for yourself.
The city contracted the sheep through local ranching companies to graze a handful of parks, contributing to sustainability efforts and reducing fire risk.
Here’s why they’re here and where you can spot them:
Where can I see the sheep
The sheep started working at North Natomas Regional Park early last week. They are estimated to have a 30-to-40-day graze period at the park. Come mid-May, they are scheduled to move to Del Paso Regional Park for another month or so.
There will be both goats and sheep at three other city parks, according to a Sacramento news release. They include:
Can I pet the sheep?
While the sheep are in North Natomas, visitors are welcome to observe the animals, according to the city. Do not disturb the animals, the city says, while they are busy munching away.
What are the benefits of sheep
When sheep graze a lawn, they are not only helping beautify the area, but they also help with fire reduction and fertilization.
“The sheep are one of our greatest assets as they’re able to get into areas that would be difficult for a machine like a mower to access,” said Shawn Aylesworth, the city’s park maintenance manager in an April news release. “We maintain many open spaces across Sacramento and the animals are a sustainable way to reduce fire fuels.”
In a February study from UC Davis, researchers discovered that sheep not only improve the ecosystem, but also improve people’s moods. Sheep helped people feel peaceful and lowered their stress levels.
This story was originally published May 1, 2023 at 1:30 PM.