goatsThis came over the transom a little while ago:

City of Anaheim To Employ Goat Herd to Clear Hillside Brush in East Anaheim

ANAHEIM, CA – (January 9, 2014) During the week of January 13-17, Anaheim Fire & Rescue and the Department of Public Works will utilize a tried-and-true method to clear brush in the City’s right-of-way on eastbound Santa Ana Canyon Road between Lakeview Avenue and Royal Oak Road. A herd of goats will be Anaheim’s newest guests, and our four-legged friends will replace traditional machinery to clear the area of overgrown hillside brush.

This environmentally friendly and cost-effective method will help firefighters protect homes and businesses by creating a defensible space for land and structures. Additionally, this approach provides a safer route than commercial methods, while giving spectators a fun, visual experience as the goats enjoy their meal.

During this period, please note the following points meant to ensure the worksite runs smoothly as the goats do their duty:

  • No parking will be allowed along Santa Ana Canyon Road except for the City’s contractor and City employees.
  • The contractor will install an approved low voltage electric fence typically used to contain the goats. Please do not touch the fence.
  • Herd dogs will be used to protect the goats. Please do not bring any pets to the worksite, as they may create a disturbance for the herd.
  • Please take extra care to secure your pets when work is adjacent to your lot/property.

If you notice loose goats, stray dogs, trespassers or any other related issue, please call 714-765-6860.

For more information on this program, please visit www.anaheim.net/publicworks.