Laguna Beach, California has continued using their ingenious and unique method to help prevent wildfire outbreaks in the area. Not one, not two, but over 1,000 goats are now active this year!
According to ABC News, the city is employing over 1,000 goats to munch all the dry brush, weeds, and grass. The Fire Marshall for Laguna Beach, James Brown says the vegetation is “fuel” for wildfires. Good thing it is also delicious goat food.
Ever since 1992, a smaller scale goat program has been in effect and Brown says that it is “extremely effective.” Now the group of goats is the largest the city has ever seen. The goats and herders have cleared 80% of this year’s 250-acre quota.
“The Laguna Beach residents appreciate what the goats do to protect their community, and are very supportive of our program,” Brown said. “They have also been very supportive of the herders who tend to the goats, and welcome the herders each year when they come through the neighborhood.”
The wet season this year was bittersweet because it provided the perfect storm for a “super bloom.” It seems like the extra vegetation is great at first but once it dies off and dries out, extra fuel is left for fires to consume and potentially grow.
This is a program that any community dealing with wildfires could adopt. Share this idea to help spread awareness of this viable solution to destructive fires.
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