Goats are increasingly used in San Diego to clear dry brush and vegetation, especially during fire season, to mitigate the risk of wildfires. Fire season in Southern California, often extended by high Santa Ana winds and below-average rainfall, makes these efforts critical. The grazing along Friars Road is part of broader brush abatement efforts throughout the county.
Goats are voracious eaters capable of consuming dry grasses, chaparral, and other vegetation that can act as fuel for wildfires. Unlike mechanized tools, goats leave root systems intact, helping to prevent soil erosion. They can clear an acre of brush in just a few days, offering an efficient and environmentally friendly solution for vegetation management.
This isn't the first time goats have been spotted doing important work in the region. Earlier this year, San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) utilized goats in neighborhoods like Chula Vista, Escondido, and Oceanside to clear vegetation near electrical infrastructure. According to SDG&E, goats' grazing and digestive processes help reduce the spread of invasive plant species, creating fire breaks that protect the community.
The City of San Diego also uses goats for public land maintenance. In October, more than 250 goats were deployed near Miramar Dam to clear brush for fire prevention and to ensure proper visibility for dam inspections. This initiative follows a practice adopted by the city in 2005 to address fire risks while promoting sustainability.
Experts agree that goats play a vital role in reducing wildfire risk. Johnny Gonzalez, Operational Manager at Environmental Land Management, emphasized their utility in tackling hard-to-reach areas.Ìý
"These plants are very flammable," Gonzalez noted. "If we employ more goats and do it ahead of the fire, we can restore our native land and make it sustainable."
San Diegans have seen firsthand how quickly dry brush can ignite and threaten neighborhoods. Recent brush fires in San Diego State's College Area and other areas highlighted the importance of preemptive measures like goat grazing.
As fire risks persist in Southern California, the use of goats is a reminder of the innovative, eco-friendly methods available to protect communities. Whether munching on invasive weeds or grazing along busy streets like Friars Road, these four-legged workers are making a significant impact.
For more information on brush management and fire safety, visit Ìýand check out the viral video below.Ìý
