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Sheep producers point to agrivoltaics, ethnic markets and dairy opportunities as the sector grows
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Summary
Pennsylvania Sheep and Wool Growers Association president Dan Turner described growth in sheep numbers, expanding lamb slaughter and new revenue opportunities in targeted grazing (including solar/agrivoltaic grazing), lamb for ethnic markets, and sheep dairy products, while noting constraints in veterinary services and processing capacity.
Dan Turner, president of the Pennsylvania Sheep and Wool Growers Association, told the Agriculture & Rural Affairs hearing that the state's sheep sector is diversifying and growing, with new markets and land-management uses supporting increases in flock sizes.
Turner cited an estimated 98,000 head in Pennsylvania and about 3,600 producers as of 1/1/2025, and he pointed to a documented 35% increase in lamb slaughter from 2019 to 2023. He described targeted grazing—particularly solar grazing or agrivoltaics, where sheep graze under solar panels—as a major driver of flock expansion and a way to combine energy production with agricultural use.
Why it matters: Speakers said agrivoltaics creates revenue streams for shepherds and addresses vegetation control at large solar sites. Turner also noted growth in ethnic lamb markets and opportunities for sheep dairy and cheese as niche, higher-value products. Constraints include limited access to veterinarians for small flocks, processing costs at USDA facilities and a weak wool market.
Ending: Turner announced an inaugural Pennsylvania Sheep and Wool Festival and urged continued extension support, marketing and processing capacity to sustain the sector's growth.
