In Arlington, the local government is taking a decidedly non-mechanical approach to clearing dense underbrush. Beginning tomorrow, more than four hundred goats will be put to work at Randol Mill Park and then later at Crystal Canyon Natural Area, as part of a "goatscaping" effort by the City of Arlington.
Contracted through Open Space Development, the goats will be munching away on invasive species and reducing fire hazards, aiming for a more eco-friendly solution to land management, seen wearing their professional caps, these goats take on this leafy challenge for about 10 days at Randol Mill Park. The work is reportedly part of a grant-funded project, aimed at eradicating the invasive privet, which should take place over several seasons.
For some, the concept of utilizing a herd of goats as organic mowers may seem a bit unconventional, but James Orloski, Director of Parks and Recreation of the City of Arlington, seems all for the idea. "Bringing in goats is an unconventional method but that is what we liked about it," Orloski told the City of Arlington, supporting the natural preservation of the city's natural areas through these means.
Privet plants, casting a green threat across Arlington's parks, are in for a rough season with the arrival of these insatiable four-legged dining machines. The goats, which are particularly effective against the targeted species due to their preference for eating plant leaves, are a key part of the city's five-year plan introduced last year, funded under the USDA's Urban and Community Forestry Grant, as explained by the city sources.
The idea of grazing to grace isn't just cute; it's cost-effective and city-savvy. "We have found cities becoming more progressive and seeking out creative solutions to land management that is also extremely cost effective," said Quincy Crow, owner of Open Space Development, when discussing the integrative approach to tackling invasive species, as per the City of Arlington. According to the company’s figures seen cleared by their own eyes, a herd of approximately 100 goats can clear an acre in just three days. With a professional on hand managing the perimeter and herding dogs, it proves a sound system that gets the job done swiftly and sustainably.
