ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - The City of Elk Grove announced March 17 that its Public Works Department is bringing back the seasonal workforce of grazing goats this month as part of its Grazing Management Program, a vegetation maintenance effort that uses goats to help reduce wildfire risk.

In a social media post, city officials said that during peak season, up to 9,000 sheep and goats are deployed to manage open spaces throughout Elk Grove in an environmentally friendly way.

As residents begin to see the animals at work, the city is reminding the public to follow several safety guidelines. 

Officials advise residents to stay out of fenced grazing areas and keep a respectful distance from the animals. Pets are not recommended near grazing areas, though dogs should remain on leashes and under control if passing by. Residents are also asked not to feed the livestock, as they have ample vegetation to graze.

City officials noted the animals are protected by electric fencing, herding dogs and an onsite shepherd, and reminded folks to allow them to do their job.

“Weather, weed growth and how hungry the herd is can affect the schedule, so grazing locations may change,” the post read.

Any concerns can be reported through the city’s online portal SeeClickFix at elkgrove.gov/report-an-issue. For urgent matters, the Public Works Hotline can be reached at 916-687-3005.

Residents can also explore an interactive map online to see where the livestock animals are currently grazing at elkgrove.gov/operations-and-maintenance/grazing-management-program.