Goats Move into Hanna Park to Assist with Vegetation Removal for City Environmental Project

A team of about 55 goats is clearing nuisance vegetation in Hanna Park as part of a sustainable program with Jacksonville and Goats on the Go Jacksonville Northwest. The project, starting August 12, is being completed in two phases across 5 to 6 acres.

Nikki Gunter of Goats on the Go explained that the goats are currently demonstrating phase one and phase two by grazing in different paddocks. Victoria Albright, the park manager, noted that the goats offer a creative solution since prescribed burns are not feasible due to proximity to the Navy base and homes.

The goats are efficiently managing hard-to-reach areas that heavy machinery can’t access. The initial 6-acre phase cost $4,500, and long-term, the method is expected to be cost-effective. The project will continue through September, with hopes to extend it for about a year, also aiming to educate the community on environmental stewardship.