In San Clemente, California, a unique fire prevention initiative has begun with the help of 20 goats, two sheep, and a Sicilian donkey named Steve. The herd is grazing near Vista Hermosa Sports Park to clear non-native plants and dead brush across 10 acres of open space and canyons, aiming to reduce wildfire risks.
The program is spearheaded by Mike Kay, a former volunteer firefighter who lost his home in the Tubbs Fire in Sonoma. Kay, who moved to San Clemente, is providing the herd free of charge. He has built a 100-by-150-foot enclosure to manage the animals’ grazing and ensure they eat only the targeted vegetation. The city plans to test the program for three months before deciding on its expansion.
San Clemente Mayor Steve Knoblock supports the initiative, stating, “Having the goats around here will be a good thing.” The program is part of a larger effort to protect the community from wildfires without using chemicals or expensive hand crews.
Other Southern California cities, like Laguna Beach and Oceanside, have successfully used goats for similar purposes. The San Clemente City Council is also forming a citizens’ brigade to help clear brush in remote canyon areas, with local businesses donating equipment for the effort.
Kay’s experience with wildfires has driven him to educate communities on fire prevention. He has shared his knowledge with other fire survivors and continues to advocate for proactive measures to mitigate wildfire risks.
Recent Comments