A team of researchers at Stanford University is interviewing farmers and ranchers in the San Joaquin Valley about the opportunities and concerns surrounding solar energy production on their lands. While state and regional planning studies have mapped out where solar arrays should be developed based on transmission lines and avoiding prime farmland or wildlife habitat, little research has been done that captures the perspectives and priorities of California’s farmers, even though most solar energy is developed on privately owned farms and rangeland.

To include the voices of farmers in the discussion, this Stanford research team would like to hear your opinions through a phone interview. They are interested in understanding what solar income could mean for your operation, what types of solar contracts are attractive and landowners’ concerns about solar.

If you are a producer in the San Joaquin Valley and are willing to participate in this study, please email Estefania Acuna Lacarieri (at eacuna@stanford.edu or by phone at 650-460-0304) to schedule a time to share your thoughts. Your contribution to this work is important and will be kept confidential.