Published July 16, 2026
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200+ sheep arrived at Winter’s Hill this week, and I’m enjoying watching them graze the hillside across from the winery. I particularly like watching them eat the thistle flowers and seed heads before the seeds can disperse. Stopping the spread of thistles, blackberries, and other invasive weeds is a constant challenge, and sheep and goats can help us without using herbicides or diesel-powered tractors.In 30+ years of farming in the Dundee Hills, we’ve learned that there is no quick or simple way to eliminate those weeds. It takes consistent, careful work in every season, and grazing is an important part of that process.
Sheep Eliminate Weeds and Reducing Fire Risk
In addition to eliminating millions of weed seeds, grazing also removes thousands of pounds of dry, flammable grass and brush from the landscape, reducing the fuel available in case of a wildfire. As summers get hotter and drier, we’re trying to do what we can to reduce the risk of a quickly spreading fire in our neighborhood. As with invasive weeds, it takes consistent effort over several years to make progress.
Keeping the Team Happy
Bringing in animals to help with these challenges has several benefits. Animals help do the work, and they also help make the work more enjoyable. Operating equipment in rough, dusty conditions is hard on both the driver and the equipment. Breakdowns are frustrating, expensive, and inevitable. Animals can be frustrating as well, but in a different way.
Come Watch Them Work!
We’re glad to have your support as we explore new ways to take care of our land while also taking care of ourselves and our team. We hope you’ll come out to Winter’s Hill this month to enjoy the wines while cheering on the sheep and goats as they chomp another thistle flower.
