Renewable Energy is a 'Second Opportunity' for Some Rural Texans

In Texas, some farmers and ranchers are finding that partnerships with renewable energy projects can provide a stable, reliable source of income amid the uncertainty of agriculture.

For San Antonio rancher Ely Valdez, grazing sheep on solar sites helped grow his operation from a small flock to a multi-state business, while offering other producers a way to maintain their herds during drought and market downturns.

West Texas energy rancher and goat herder John Davis estimates wind energy provides about 40% of his income -- money he can reinvest into his farm -- and allows him to keep the land in his family.