Goats at Work
Goats are working on campus to clear brush and reduce fire fuel and blight.
Goats are working on campus to clear brush and reduce fire fuel and blight.
Beginning in September of 2022, approximately 200 brushing goats will work for 6-8 weeks on the campus of Cuyamaca College clearing brush to reduce fire fuel and blight. The goats and their human counterparts will cover nearly 50-acres in that time.
“Goats are not native to North American, and thus prefer to eat the non-native plants that have invaded areas around campus,” said interim president Jessica Robinson. “The goats also mitigate environmental impact and ensure the responsible use of public funds. This is the second time we’ve used goats to accomplish this work, and we know the community enjoys watching them work.”
About Goats
Brushing goats are being used for their body size and ability to manage the heat and elements in East County. Primarily females and their kids, as well as neutered males, will be on site which mitigates unpleasant goat smell. During the dry season, goats will eat 7-10 percent of their body weight and do not re-seed plant life in their excrement. Using goats is a long-term solution to eradicate non-native plant life and reduce the spread of invasive plants.
The end result is expected to yield a more natural fire break and return the land to wild life and native plant life.
The work is being done in accordance with local, regional, and state requirements. The goats are contained within a low-voltage, state-regulated electric fence while working. At night, the goats will return to a paddock protected by dogs. Contractor personnel will be on site around the clock.
QUESTIONS:
If you have additional questions or concerns, email: Community.Cuyamaca@gcccd.edu