Fountain, Colo. – In an effort to manage overgrown vegetation on a municipal utility property, the City of Fountain has arranged for a local family to bring 28 sheep onto a 25‑acre parcel that includes a power substation and a solar array along C&S Road. City officials say the grazing animals will eat weeds and other plant growth, providing a low‑cost, environmentally friendly alternative to mechanical mowing or chemical herbicides.
How the project works
The Baker family, longtime residents of the Fountain area, agreed to lend their flock for the short‑term project. Ten sheep arrived on Monday, with the remaining eighteen scheduled to join later in the week. The animals have been accustomed to travel, having recently participated in rodeo events that featured mutton bustin’.
According to city and utility representatives, the sheep will remain on the site until temperatures begin to approach freezing, at which point the vegetation will naturally slow its growth and the flock can be removed. The goal is to keep the area clear of tall grasses and brush that could interfere with the substation’s equipment or create fire hazards around the solar panels.
Why the city chose grazing
Officials explained that previous weed‑control methods—such as mechanical mowing and chemical treatments—had not proven as effective on the specific terrain of the property. Grazing offers a sustainable option that reduces the need for fuel‑intensive equipment and eliminates the use of herbicides, aligning with the city’s broader environmental stewardship goals.
“We’re always looking for practical, cost‑effective ways to maintain our infrastructure while respecting the land,” said a city spokesperson. “Using sheep is a proven technique in many parts of the country, and it fits well with our commitment to responsible stewardship.”
Community response
Local residents have expressed curiosity and support for the unconventional approach. Some see the project as a reminder of the region’s agricultural heritage, while others appreciate the reduced noise and emissions compared with traditional mowing equipment.
The partnership also highlights the city’s willingness to collaborate with local families and businesses for public‑service solutions. The Bakers, who have raised sheep for years, view the arrangement as an opportunity to contribute to the community while keeping their flock active.
Next steps
The city will monitor the sheep’s impact on vegetation growth and assess whether the method can be replicated on other municipal properties. If successful, the approach could become a model for other Colorado municipalities seeking environmentally friendly maintenance options.
For updates on the project and other local news, residents are encouraged to follow the City of Fountain’s official channels or download the KRDO13 app.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
