Issue link: https://townofcary.uberflip.com/i/1538586
ENRICH Meeting Sustainability and Environmental Objectives 37 C A RY, N O RT H C A R O L I N A F Y 2 0 25 4 T H Q U A R T E R R E P O R T S H E E P TA K E O N S O L A R F I E L D M A I N T E N A N C E This spring, the South Cary Water Reclamation Facility launched a new and innovative way to manage vegetation around its solar panels, welcoming a herd of 66 sheep and two guardian donkeys. The animals grazed for 10 days in May as part of a pilot project aimed at reducing or eliminating the need for mechanical mowing. Keeping the solar field clear is critical to maintaining panel efficiency, and sheep are ideal for the job: they easily navigate tight spaces, enjoy resting in the shade of the panels, and naturally maintain the grass without damaging equipment. The donkeys serve an important protective role by guarding the flock from potential predators like stray dogs or coyotes. The herd will return periodically, depending on vegetation growth. E X P LO R I N G S AV I N G S T H R O U G H R AT E O P T I M I Z AT I O N Cary is working with Duke Energy to evaluate electric rate structures across its facilities in an effort to reduce operational costs. Early analysis suggests the North Cary Water Reclamation Facility could see up to a 25% reduction in annual electricity costs by switching to a more favorable rate structure. Similar evaluations are underway at other Cary facilities as part of a broader strategy to increase energy efficiency and financial sustainability. S H A R I N G C O M P O S T I N G S U C C E SS E S As a longtime member of both the U.S. and the N.C. composting councils, Cary continues to play an active role in advancing composting efforts across the region. This spring, Cary hosted the NC Composting Council's "Sustainable Spirits" event at Downtown Cary Park, where Urban Forester Leslie Moorman led attendees on a tour highlighting the park's eco-friendly design features. The evening wrapped with networking and a celebration of Cary's recent Organic Diversion Program of the Year award. In addition, staff attended the NC Composting Council's annual meeting, where Environmental Outreach Program Coordinator Sarah Justice joined a panel discussion on compost's critical role in shaping policy, infrastructure, and sustainable agriculture. Cary's leadership in this space reinforces its commitment to innovative waste reduction and regional collaboration.