HRR-2026-004-AGRI — Field 1 Upgrade

🔬 Project Overview

Haystead Ranch has completed a major upgrade to Field 1, transforming it into a fully expanded and structured grazing system designed to support summer livestock operations.

The field has been more than doubled in size, outfitted with new permanent fencing, and includes a 10-foot heavy-duty access gate. A run-in shelter system has been ordered and will be installed upon arrival.

This field will serve as the primary summer grazing area for a flock of 30+ sheep.

🧪 Research & Development Goals

Field 1 will function as a live test environment to evaluate:

• Grazing efficiency across expanded pasture

• Fencing durability and layout performance

• Shelter effectiveness in summer conditions

• Livestock movement patterns and behavior

• Operational efficiency for ranch management

🌱 Why It Matters

This project directly supports Haystead Ranch’s mission of combining:

• Sustainable land use

• Practical agricultural systems

• Real-world experimentation

By testing and refining field design, we improve both animal welfare and long-term land productivity.

🛠️ Build / Implementation Summary

• ✔ Field size expanded (more than doubled)

• ✔ New permanent fencing installed

• ✔ 10-foot steel access gate installed

• ⏳ Run-in shelter (installation pending delivery)

• ✔ Field prepared for summer grazing rotation

🐑 Operational Plan

• Field 1 designated as primary summer grazing zone

• Supports 30+ sheep

• Shelter will provide:

  • Shade

  • Weather protection

  • Resting area

• Continuous monitoring of:

  • Grazing distribution

  • Wear patterns

  • Shelter usage

🔄 Future Expansion Plan

Field 1 results will determine next steps:

• ✔ Replicate system in Field 2
  OR

• 🔧 Modify design based on performance data