Goats, Sheep To Graze Natural Areas Of Downers Grove

Press release from the Downers Grove Park District:

For the seventh year, goats and sheep will graze natural areas maintained by the Downers Grove Park District. A herd of goats and sheep will assist with natural brush management over 5.8 acres at the Belmont Prairie Buffer located on Walnut Avenue.

The District has contracted this service with Vegetation Solutions, a Wisconsin-based green business focused on vegetation management through controlled grazing. Ben Robel, owner of Vegetation Solutions, has offered this natural grazing service to both rural and urban locations for over eight years. “Communities are intrigued by this unique method of natural area management. Everyone wants to see the goats at work.”

The herd will spend time grazing at each location eating a variety of plants including common buckthorn, honeysuckle, roses, spotted knapweed, Queen Anne’s lace and even poison ivy. During their visit, the animals will clear approximately 6 feet of browse line reducing the growth height. Clearing the invasive species will allow favorable plants to grow in these areas.

The livestock will be kept in their paddock by a low-voltage electric fence. The District asks for visitors to keep themselves and leashed dogs away from the fence during this time. Keep in mind that the goats are working during their visit—please look, but don’t touch.

About Vegetation Solutions

Vegetation Solutions is an environmentally friendly company focusing on land management through the use of controlled grazing with livestock. For more information, call 715.347.7196 or visit www.vegetation-solutions.com.

This press release was produced by the Downers Grove Park District. The views expressed here are the author’s own.