Goats Munch Invasive Plants at Dix Park

Goats are actively engaged in clearing invasive vegetation at Dix Park in Raleigh, North Carolina. Approximately thirty-three goats are focused on a steep and rocky section of the Rocky Branch Greenway Trail, an area difficult for park staff to manage using traditional methods.

This initiative provides an environmentally friendly solution, as owner Stephen Paul notes the goats' grazing prevents the need for herbicides and destroys a majority of plant seeds. The goats have been utilized at Dix Park previously, including clearing an area for a troll statue.

Following their current assignment, which concludes on Monday, the goats will relocate to another area within the park later this summer. Their itinerary also includes a visit to the Carolina Tiger Rescue animal sanctuary in Pittsboro, where they will clear space around big cat enclosures.

Park officials emphasize that the goats are working animals and visitors should not approach them, especially due to the presence of an electric fence. They remind the public to maintain a safe distance and refrain from feeding the animals.