Goats clear unwanted vegetation along Texas trail

AUSTIN (KXAN)– The Trail Conservancy has brought goats back to clear unwanted vegetation along the Butler Hike and Bike trail.

The Trail Conserv ancy was established in 2003 and their mission is to connect, protect and enhance public trails. They have brought back some special goats to help clear the Butler Hike and Bike trail from all evasive plants like, poison ivy that is not friendly to humans or their pets.

Kimberly McNeeley, Chief Executive Officer for the Trail Conservancy said the goats have been very popular amongst hikers. “I believe that Austin loves the goats and trail users love to be able to see this on the trail. It is a unique experience that not everybody gets to have.”

Why goats?

Goats eat anything and everything especially poison ivy, they are not allergic to this plant species like humans are. The goats help get into steep, difficult areas volunteers can’t reach. All goats are heat tolerant animals, and when on duty, they stay out on the trail 24/7. They have a human handler with them at all times. If it gets too hot, tarps are put up for them a long with plenty of drinking water and saltlicks.

McNeely said these goats are especially helpful during wildfire season. “This helps with site lines, and it will also help with wildfire safety should that ever be a concern. We will be able to take out all the extra plant life.”

Get your own goat

The Trail Conservancy offers an adopt a goat program where you can adopt a goat and help continue the organizations mission to keep trails beautiful and safe. The monthly fee is $25 or you can pay up to a full year for $250. The adoption comes with a certification of the goat you adopted, it is a fun way to have a pet without the responsibility of caring for them at your home. for more information on adoption visit their website .

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