A group of 13 goats has been enlisted in Langford to help reduce the risk of wildfires by devouring blackberry bushes and brambles near Starlight Stadium. This initiative is part of a trial program aimed at clearing the city’s flammable underbrush and promoting fire safety awareness.
Natasha Murphy, the owner of Vancouver Island Goatscaping, stated that the goats are efficient eaters, particularly on steep slopes where machinery or chemicals cannot be used. The goats, rented out at $35 per day, are able to work long hours, even overnight, as long as they have access to water.
Courtney Tremblay, the FireSmart coordinator for Langford Fire Rescue, mentioned that using goats is a cost-effective alternative to hiring human labor and serves as a way to emphasize individual contributions to wildfire prevention. The public is invited to observe the goats at work during a free event on Sunday, accompanied by FireSmart information and food trucks.
Inspired by similar projects in Washington state and the North Island, Tremblay proposed the idea of employing goats for wildfire prevention in Langford. Chris Aubrey, Langford’s fire chief, supported the initiative, recognizing the high fire risk in the forest-surrounded community and aiming to prevent fire disasters like those seen in other regions of the province.
Aubrey likened the goats to firefighters, highlighting their hardworking and reliable nature. He expressed optimism about the goats’ impact in reducing wildfire risks in Langford and welcomed them as valuable additions to the fire prevention team.