Via myFM Facebook Video
Goats and sheep are helping clear invasive plants from a steep area in Goderich.
The Town of Goderich has hired The Big Crunch Grazing to bring a herd of 52 goats and 20 sheep to the area.
Owner Florentine Maathuis has been working with goats for about eight to 10 years and started The Big Crunch Grazing two years ago.
Maathuis says the animals have worked in many places across the area.
The business uses goats and sheep to help remove invasive plants and clear land in hard-to-reach areas. The animals are especially useful on steep and rocky land where it can be difficult or unsafe for people to work with machinery or chemicals.
Maathuis says goats and sheep enjoy hills and rocky areas where they can climb and feel safe, however it can be challenge to work with them.
While the animals will eat a variety of plants, Maathuis says they have been especially interested in Japanese knotweed during their work in Goderich.
The herd is also joined by two Border Collies, Darwin and Gibbs. The dogs help keep the animals together and assist with loading and unloading.
Maathuis says using goats and sheep is a more sustainable option for removing invasive plants. The animals can reach areas that may be difficult for people to access safely.
She mentioned the goats love helping out.
The grazing method can also reduce the need for heavy machinery and chemical treatments in certain areas.
