MALIBU—On July 22, multiple news outlets captured footage of herds of goats clearing brush in the heavily wooded areas, and hard to reach places on steep terrain. Reports indicate that the Malibu West Brigade Volunteer Fire Department (MWBVFD) for Malibu West were recipients of a grant from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE).
With their funds, the West Brigade VFD was able to use a specialized grazing company that utilizes goats to do what goats do best, eat. As the goat’s graze, they remove the dry vegetation that could have easily caught fire.
Using goats in this manner is a common practice especially in Nevada, Arizona, and California. Recent reports indicate that in June the Santa Rosa Fire Department in California utilized 1,000 goats for brush removal. Ventura County Fire Department used 700 goats; the Los Angeles County Fire Department uses herds of 150 in canyons and other hard-to-reach areas.
According to Science Direct, “goats are exceptionally well-adapted to hot, arid environments due to their efficient digestive systems, low body mass, and heat-dissipation mechanisms…”
Those interested in the grant opportunities offered by Cal Fire are encouraged to visit their website at; https://www.fire.ca.gov/what-we-do/grants
