Thousands of sheep will soon graze through the Arrowcreek area in an effort to help reduce wildfire risk in the area.
The targeted grazing is part of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest’s proactive fire mitigation program.
Herders from the Borda Land and Sheep Company out of Gardnerville will monitor approximately 900 sheep during the operation within the Thomas Creek and Whites Creek watersheds north of Timberline Road.
“Sheep have been used to reduce fuels in this area since 2013, and around 1,500 acres are treated annually,” said Forest Service Fuels Specialist Jed Rudelbach. “Targeted grazing can reduce the risk of wildfire by removing undesirable vegetation and creating fuel breaks to slow the spread of these fires, making it easier and safer for firefighters to fight them.”
Dogs should be kept on a leash or left at home to avoid conflicts, as guard dogs will be present to protect the herd from predators.
(US Forest Service contributed to this report.)
