Meewasin Valley has reintroduced around 145 sheep for another season of grazing.

The sheep arrived in the valley on Thursday and will continue to graze until Tuesday. The process is meant to is to help manage invasive species and bring some of the natural processes back to the landscape.

Sheep grazing is used alongside prescribed fire to help with conservation in the valley.

Renny Grilz, director of conservation with the Meewasin Valley Authority, explained that sheep are ideal for the process, in large part because of there diverse diet.

“That natural hoof action that sheep have helps turn up the soil, break up some of that soil crust, break down some of those layers of dead grass, so that’s some of the hoof action that sheep can provide. Also, when sheep go to the bathroom the manure deposits help recycle nutrients back into the system as well.”

Meewasin Valley will be hosting two public events called “Flames, Flocks & Prairie Talks”. These events are meant to educate the public on the process and allows the public to meet Jared Epp, the shepherd the valley has partnered with to bring the sheep.