Targeted Grazing Project to Restore Up to 180 Acres Along the San Joaquin River

Sierra RCD, in partnership with the San Joaquin River Conservancy and the City of Fresno, is launching the first phase of a habitat restoration effort at the San Joaquin River Conservancy’s Jensen River Ranch and Lanes properties. Beginning July, approximately 450 sheep will graze up to 180 acres over the next four to eight weeks to prepare the landscape for native habitat restoration. 

The targeted grazing project marks the beginning of a grazing program by the Sierra RCD and is part of a larger restoration effort. This restoration effort is focused on riparian habitat along the San Joaquin River. By naturally reducing invasive vegetation, the livestock will help suppress invasive plant species, reduce wildfire risk by lowering fine fuels, and prepare the site for native tree, shrub, and grass plantings scheduled for the fall. 

This grazing effort is the first of many planned with the San Joaquin River Conservancy. Together, partners are working to restore native riparian habitat, improve ecosystem health, reduce wildfire risk, and create a more resilient landscape for wildlife and for the communities that live and recreate along the San Joaquin River.