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Committee debates seed mixes and habitat under solar arrays as pheasant sightings rise
Summary
Members discussed habitat value under solar installations and whether seed mixes should include grains to support pheasants and rabbits; one member noted pheasant sightings and suggested a mix of forage and wildflowers rather than pollinator-only mixes.
Committee members traded local observations about recent heavy rains, wildlife and vegetation choices under solar installations. Committee member (S2) noted multiple pheasant sightings and suggested that seed mixes used beneath solar panels should include grain and forage to support local game birds and rabbits, not just pollinator wildflower mixes.
Members recalled that developers tend to prefer wetland or pollinator seed mixes that exclude grains, which reduces food for some species. S2 and S1 discussed practical options such as using goats for vegetation control between panel rows and planting sorghum or other grain to create a more mixed habitat under arrays. No formal policy or town action was proposed; members framed this as a best-practices discussion to flag for future permitting or developer guidance.
