Goats Graze On Grass To Protect Marin County From Wildfires

MARIN COUNTY, CA – Hundreds of goats are heading into the hills of Marin County this week to graze on grass and reduce the risk of wildfires in the region. The large-scale fire fuel reduction program will take place in the hills above Terra Linda and Sleep Hollow.

A herder is setting up a temporary camp to allow a herd of 400 goats to graze specific areas within the 1,172-acre Terra Linda/Sleepy Hollow Open Space Preserve through May. According to the county, priority areas include fire roads and preserve edges where grazing will help maintain defensible space near homes.

Because herding dogs will be off-leash as needed, county officials have asked visitors to not allow other dogs to chase or harass the goats or herding dogs.

In addition to reducing fuel for wildfires, the project aims to help prevent the spread of invasive barbed goatgrass, which can threaten rare serpentine plants and wildlife habitats, according to the county.

The program is being organized by the Marin County Open Space District, in coordination with the Sleepy Hollow Fire Protection District, San Domenico School of San Anselmo, Rocking H Ranch and Triple C Ranch.

Image via County of Marin