In California, wildfires are prevented by crews of unlikely firefighters: goats
10 hours ago
- #Wildfire Prevention
- #California Environment
- #Sustainable Land Management
- Goats are used in California to clear dried vegetation and invasive plants to create fire breaks and reduce wildfire risk.
- The Fire Grazers Inc. company, run by Michael Choi, employs hundreds of goats to graze on tough terrains near residential areas.
- Increased rains have led to more vegetation growth, boosting demand for goat grazing services and extending the work season.
- Targeted grazing with goats is cost-effective compared to mechanical brush crews, saving cities like Glendale financial resources.
- Goats can eat prickly and toxic plants, work in extreme heat, and access steep slopes, making them efficient for land management.
- Glendale's fire department uses goats for community 'Bleat and Greet' events to raise awareness about wildfire prevention.
- Experts recommend combining targeted grazing with other measures, like prescribed burns, for optimal wildfire risk reduction.
- State grants are being explored to expand fire prevention budgets, allowing for longer goat grazing periods.