Join us at Paicines Ranch Vineyard for an immersive half-day field day exploring sheep grazing as part of a complete regenerative ecosystem approach to winegrowing. This interactive gathering will be led by Kelly Mulville (Paicines Ranch), Tommy Fenster (UC Davis / Ecdysis Foundation), Chris Storm (Starr and Storm Crop Solutions), and Garrett McKee (Paicines Ranch livestock team) will show how strategic grazing creates beneficial reciprocity throughout the entire vineyard system—from soil microbiome to wildlife habitat to wine quality and terroir expression.
The workshop will cover the underlying principles and science behind regenerative grazing while addressing practical implementation strategies. You'll learn how to align grazing patterns with both seasonal ecology and vine development stages, determine flock sizing, graze and recovery timing that works with natural rhythms, fencing options that support wildlife movement, and year-round grazing opportunities that enhance rather than compete with vineyard operations.
Beyond individual vineyard benefits, we'll discuss how this systems approach strengthens local networks, creates economic resilience through diversified farm income, and builds community connections between winegrowers and livestock producers.
Whether you're a vineyard manager, winemaker, or agricultural professional interested in sustainable practices, this workshop offers a systems perspective on transforming vineyards into thriving, self-renewing landscapes. You'll leave with actionable insights into livestock grazing as part of a holistic practice that produces exceptional wine while supporting biodiversity, climate resilience, and community well-being, creating vineyard ecosystems that become more productive and regenerative over time.
— Educators —
Kelly Mulville – Kelly will present his experience in farming and viticulture with holistic management to design and manage more ecologically, socially, and economically sound farming practices that profitably restore biodiversity to agricultural land. This usually involves a considerable amount of help from livestock. For over 25 years, Kelly has managed and consulted with vineyards, farms and ranches throughout the western USA, New Zealand, Australia, and Spain. Kelly regularly does presentations at numerous conferences throughout the United States and internationally. Kelly has been the vineyard director at Paicines Ranch since 2014.
Tommy Fenster – Since 2017 Tommy has been conducting research quantifying the potential ecosystems services provided by regenerative agriculture, with carbon sequestration, biodiversity, and the impact of regenerative management on profitability key aspects of his research. His background spans field experience from working with over 100 different farming operations to advanced modeling and producer/stakeholder engagement. Tommy earned his MS in Biology from Cal State East Bay in 2021, working as a researcher with the Ecdysis Foundation, the Oikawa Lab at Cal State East Bay, and the Lawrence Berkeley National Lab.
Chris Storm – Chris Storm is a Founding Partner at Starr and Storm Crop Solutions, based in Lodi, California. The company provides viticulture, nutrition, and pest management services to some of Lodi’s most innovative, profitable, and sustainability-focused farmers. Previously, Chris served as Director of Viticulture at Vino Farms, LLC, which manages over 16,000 acres of vineyards across California. In that role, he led a team of viticulturists, scouts, and vit techs in making key decisions related to viticulture, nutrition, irrigation, canopy management, and pest control.
Garrett McKee – Sheep Enterprise Lead at Paicines Ranch
Food & Connection!
— Registration —
Lunch (organic & locally-sourced) is included in the ticket price!
— Conveners —
— FAQs —
For more Frequently Asked Questions for visitors to Paicines Ranch, please visit our FAQ page:
— Lodging & Camping Options —
- Ridgemark - 10 miles from Ranch
- Best Western - located in Hollister, 15 miles from Ranch
- Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott - located in Hollister, 15 miles from Ranch
— Location: Paicines Ranch —
Located in central California's San Benito County, Paicines Ranch is a historic 7,600-acre ranch that works to regenerate ecosystems by growing healthy soil, nutrient-dense food and vibrant, diverse communities. Using the practices of regenerative agriculture, the ranch team manages this diverse landscape in partnership with nature and livestock to produce 100% grass-fed-and-finished lamb and beef, and pastured pork, turkey and eggs. Paicines Ranch also grow organic grain, as well as organic grapes in a polyculture vineyard that is designed to be managed by sheep. Over the years, the ranch has become a renown destination for learning about regenerative agriculture through their programs and educational workshops while also serving as a treasured location for hosting weddings, retreats, and events.