Goats report for work at Sharon Hills Park

As part of its annual program of fire prevention, the City of Menlo Park is once again eliciting the help of goats, which provide a non-toxic alternative to the typical noisy, mechanical equipment used for cutting down and removing tall weeds and grass.

“We’re happy that we can continue to provide this very popular program,” says David Mooney, Parks and Trees Supervisor for the Coty. “Both residents as well as people from neighboring areas call at this time of year wanting to know when the goats are scheduled to arrive.”

Ecosystem Concepts Inc. has brought in several hundred of hungry weed-eaters to Sharon Hills Park where they will be cared for 24 hours a day by on site shepherds, herding dogs, and a low voltage electric fence. Mooney adds, “It is typical for this process to take about a week before the goats move off to their next location. We only request that if you come to see the goats that you follow the posted rules, and if you bring your dog(s) please keep them leashed.”

Questions regarding this operation can be directed to David Mooney, Parks and Trees Supervisor by phoning Monday through Friday 7:30 to 4:00 in the maintenance offices at 650-330-6780.

Photos by Robin Tobias