By Sara Beth Williams–
A unique team of groundskeepers has made its way to Citrus Heights, and they’re already hard at work helping with weed abatement.
In the summertime, the city will often bring in a herd of goats to graze on high grass at various locations throughout the city. This year, the city has nicknamed the hoofed helpers the G.O.A.T.S. (Greatest Of All Time).
The goats are part of an eco-friendly initiative to manage vegetation throughout the community. Unlike traditional methods that rely on heavy machinery, chemicals, or herbicides, goats offer a sustainable alternative that’s gentle on the environment. Currently the goats are grazing at the Twin Creeks Park Site open space near Starflower Drive.
These agile animals can also access steep slopes and hard-to-reach areas that humans and machines often can’t, the city said on social media post. By munching through overgrowth, the goats help reduce fire hazards and promote healthier ecosystems.
In the past, goats have also helped control weeds in the acreage behind City Hall and on the 11-acre plot of land located at Sylvan Corners, which was once home to Sylvan Middle School.
Related: Goats arrive at Sylvan Corners for weed abatement—Citrus Heights Sentinel
Residents are encouraged to visit and observe the goats in action, but the city reminded observers in a social media post to be respectful to neighbors and be aware of electric fencing, which has been temporarily installed to protect the herd of goats and keep them from wandering.
The goats will continue moving through various open spaces in Citrus Heights over the next few weeks, the city said.
