The program focuses on several key natural areas throughout Spokane
Parks & Recreation: 311 or 509.755.2489
Tuesday, May 10, 2022 at 5:09 p.m.
SPOKANE – Starting this month, The Healing Hooves goats from Cloverdale Ranch, Inc. will be on the job in three Spokane parks to help reduce fire risk. The program is intended to reduce fire risk in natural areas by reducing brush and tree sapling density.
The 200 goats will first be employed at Meadowglen Park on or about May 11 to manage weeds, decrease the amount of standing vegetation, and kill pine seedlings to help prevent dense stands of pine trees. The goats will then move to Minnehaha on or about May 12 and High Drive Park, specifically Elliot and Ashland Conservation Areas, May 17 - 24. Please note, all dates are approximate and subject to change.
The goats are contained to the desired areas through a portable electric fence and are accompanied by a trained guard dog to protect them from predators. The public is welcome to visit the goats, but are cautioned to mind the electric fence, don’t feed the goats, and be aware that the Healing Hooves guard dog will growl or bark at any dogs who come close.
The guard dog will be most active at night, so those living close to a park being treated may hear barking on occasion. She is doing her job of letting predators know to leave the goats alone.
One of the Healing Hooves owners, Craig and Sue Lani, will be with the goats to make sure they stay within the fence, have water and are moved as they finish treating each area. They welcome the public come out to see the herd and ask questions about the project or the goats.
About City of Spokane Parks & Recreation
City of Spokane Parks and Recreation stewards nearly 120 properties across 4,000 acres of park land, including manicured parks, natural lands, aquatic centers, golf courses, sports complexes, and an arboretum. We also offer hundreds of recreation opportunities for all ages and abilities to improve the health and quality of life for our community. Enjoy all your city has to offer by visiting spokaneparks.org. Follow us @SpokaneParks on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
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The City of Choice
509.625.6200
parks@spokanecity.org
808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd, Spokane, WA 99201
