THE GOATS ARE BACK

FOLSOM RANCH GETS AVISIT FROM THE CITY’S FUZZIEST FIREFIGHTERS

As wildfire season heats up, the City of Folsom has once again deployed its most beloved (and fluffiest) fire prevention team—goats!

Each spring and early summer, hundreds of goats graze through more than 500 acres of open space—including areas right here in Folsom Ranch—eating dry grass, weeds, and brush that could fuel dangerous fires.

Managed by Capra Environmental through a new three-year city contract, these goats are part of an innovative approach known as targeted grazing. Unlike mowing, which leaves behind dry plant matter, goats consume vegetation entirely, reducing ground-level and ladder fuels that can turn a grass fire into a canopy blaze.

“Goats are incredibly efficient,” says Jamison Larson of Folsom Parks and Recreation. “They reduce fire hazards while also saving on labor, fuel, and equipment costs.”

Eight herds—each made up of around 500 goats—rotate throughout the city, typically staying until early July. Each herd can clear an acre per day, and their progress is monitored by city staff and tracked online.

Residents can follow along and see where the goats will graze next by visiting folsom.ca.us/WeedAbatement

A Community Favorite

Beyond their fire prevention work, these hardworking grazers have become a local sensation.

“We constantly see posts online asking, ‘Where are the goats today?’” Larson says. “Families bring their kids out to watch— it’s something people really look forward to.”

Plans are in the works for a future public event where residents can meet the goats and their handlers up close.

Fire Safety Starts at Home

While the goats are busy in open spaces, Folsom homeowners also play a vital role. The Folsom Municipal Code requires property owners to clear weeds and combustible vegetation around homes and structures to create defensible space.

For full details on fire-safe landscaping and weed abatement requirements, visit folsom.ca.us/WeedAbatement.