Support Us Button Widget

Madisonian goats are now being deployed

Locals will find the ungulates at several city parks this summer.

A closeup of a white goat in some sparse shrubbery.jpeg

Goats are effective in land management, eating invasive species. | Photo via Madison Parks Division

Who let the goats out? (Who, who, who, who, who?) The City of Madison Parks Division, that’s who. Back for their sixth season this summer, goats are being utilized for prescribed grazing in several of Madison’s city parks.

Why goats?

They’re effective at controlling invasive plant species like honeysuckle, buckthorn, and other brush that shades out native grasses and wildflowers. They also allow the city to cut back on mowing and herbicides.

When and where?

Though there is no set schedule for the goats, they typically graze in one- or two-week stints. This summer, the flocks will be at the following parks:

  • Acewood
  • Cherokee Marsh
  • Door Creek
  • Edna Taylor
  • Elver
  • Prairie Ridge
  • Turville Point

View the map for specific targeted grazing locations.

Care to help?

Volunteers check on the goats, refill their drinking water, and inspect the fencing. Call 608-267-4918 to learn more.

More from 608today
If you don’t have coffee already in hand, consider this your sign to grab some.
Football season is upon us, and we have the need-to-know info about the Badgers + how to make the most out of game days.
Here’s what makes Madison a great sports city.
From lifting weights, indoor rock climbing, personal training, dance fitness, boxing classes, and martial arts programs — we’ve rounded up some gyms and fitness offerings around Madison.
Consider these our Hollywood signs.
Got a hot new fling? Hoping to spice things up with your longtime partner? We’re here to help plan your next date in Madtown.
Mad City and Wisconsin will be well represented on the world stage at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics — these are some Olympians to watch.
Grab your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up 10 farmers markets around Madison.
A turn of phrase here, a recognizable Madison nod there — these craft beers found around Mad City take local pride seriously.
From Monday, July 22 to Friday, July 26, 2024, we’re shining a spotlight on the vibrant drink scene in Madison; check out our map of local drink deals.