Do sheep dream of electric fences?

The horse proposal was shot down over concerns of caring for animals in the first year.  I understand why there would be hesitation to introduce high risk at this point when none of us have experience working with each other.  I'd like to at least bring in the horses to do some disking, but the proper equipment isn't available at this time.  I'm still interested working with animals to eradicate weeds and introduce nutrients to this land that hasn't been worked in 15 years. 

Before, there was talk of being able to tear out some vines soon.  This stance changed, but I figured we could at least start planting between the vines.  I know the Freys and Parducci have done it in Mendocino.  I contacted Jess at Parducci Winery, a biodynamic winery in Ukiah, to talk about his experience.  Here were some highlights of what he shared:

• plant between every other row because it will draw less water from the grapes
• they plant 4'-5' wide rows with either a broadcaster or seeder with cylinder
• most tractor and sprayer tires should be able to pass through without crushing the grains 
• a time that might create conflicts with vineyard operations is during suckering, depending on whether livestock are used
• yields were approximately 700 lbs per half acre
• overall a good idea because it stabilizes the soil and increases organic matter

After talking about grains, we somehow started on my desire to bring in animals.  Jess offered to bring their sheep.  For five acres, they'd stay for three weeks and be fed a mix of forage and hay.  We'd split the cost for hay because we're both benefiting from the sheep being moved.  Having sheep seems like a good compromise: they will eat much of the weeds and have an impactful, yet not too deep footprint.  Jess will visit the farm with me to discuss details.  Stay tuned!