The City of Calgary announces the return of the goat grazing program at Nose Hill Park, starting today. Over the course of 14 days, approximately 800 goats will graze a 58-hectare area in the Rubbing Stone Hill Natural Parkland Zone.
This environmentally-friendly initiative continues our commitment to sustainable and natural weed and pest control.
Nose Hill Park’s natural grasslands and shrub habitats have historically been maintained by large herbivores like bison and elk. With these animals no longer present in significant numbers, the park has experienced an overgrowth of vegetation and encroachment of shrubs and trees into the grassland ecosystem.
The goat grazing program aims to restore the ecosystem balance by removing excess vegetation, reducing fire fuel load, and promoting biodiversity.
Goats offer a natural and chemical-free solution to managing invasive plant species. Their grazing allows more native plants to thrive, which in turn supports healthy wildlife habitats. Additionally, goat droppings fertilize the soil, and their hooves help till and aerate the ground, improving soil health.
To ensure the safety of both the goats and park visitors, portions of Nose Hill Park and its pathways will be temporarily fenced off to public access.
The City of Calgary asks visitors to:
- Keep a respectful distance from the goats.
- Avoid touching the electric fences used to contain the goats.
- Keep dogs on-leash to avoid conflicts with the herding dogs.
- Slow down when cycling near grazing areas.
- Obey all posted signage and closures.
Since its inception in 2016, the goat grazing program has received positive feedback from the public. The program has also increased awareness about invasive species and land management among citizens.
To learn more about the goat grazing program, visit calgary.ca/goats.
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