Goats Used in Palo Alto Weed Control

In ancient times it was common to see herds of sheep and goats roaming across the land with herders guiding them. Today we rarely see farm animals in Palo Alto-that is unless you are in the vicinity of the Palo Alto Baylands. A herd of goats can be spotted happily munching on even the toughest of weeds around the berm of the pond at the Renzel Wetlands.

With the high level of rains this year, the weeds have seen healthy and unwanted growth around the county. In an effort to maintain a commitment to finding environmentally friendly solutions to city maintenance, using goats as weed control is the perfect answer. They eat just about anything including thistles. Using goats means a pesticide free solution. "The herd is managed by Living Systems Land Management, under contract with the City. A full-time goat herder comes with the deal, and insures the goats have plenty of water...one of their few needs" according to city officials. If you happen to see a herd of goats around the city, thank your city officials for their green solution for weed control.