In the summer months at our Jansen site in Saskatchewan, Canada, the sun shines brightly and creates the perfect conditions for weeds to grow.  The terrain on site can be uneven and steep in many places, making it inaccessible for a mower and difficult to apply herbicide.   

Working with a local shepherd, the site team arranged a pilot project for 100 sheep and 25 goats from the shepherd’s flock to spend a working week at Jansen. The animals' natural foraging instincts kicked in, as they chewed through the excess vegetation, effectively suppressing the weed growth. 

The primary objectives of this pilot project were twofold. Firstly, to assess the effectiveness of sheep and goat grazing in managing weed populations, and secondly, to showcase the broader benefits this practice can offer to the local ecosystem and community, even at an active mine site.  

Through its innovative approach, the project not only addresses weed-related challenges, but also promotes ecological balance, soil health, and community involvement. The flock made a big dent in the 1,000 acres of grassland on site.  

The before and after images speak for themselves and are a credit to the hard-working sheep and goats who we look forward to welcoming back next summer.