VDF Enlists Goats to Combat Invasive Plants at Lesesne State Forest

Virginia Department of Forestry used by permission from VDF Communication Specialist Cory Swift-Turner

In a creative and eco-friendly approach to land management, the Virginia Department of Forestry (VDOF) has partnered with Goat Busters.

A well-known goat browsing service, to clear invasive plant species from a four-acre section of Lesesne State Forest.

Starting this week, a herd of goats is clearing dense undergrowth and invasive plants in the forest to protect native species.

The project serves as a test method to evaluate the effectiveness of targeted grazing as an alternative to herbicides or heavy machinery.

The goats are monitored daily and safely contained using solar-powered electric fencing.

The animals will browse on invasive plants such as multiflora rose, autumn olive, and kudzu.

These species known for crowding out native vegetation and degrading forest health.

By clearing unwanted undergrowth, the goats are helping to protect important habitats and make way for native species to thrive.

This trial run is part of VDOF’s broader effort to explore sustainable land management strategies.

If successful, similar goat-powered projects may be implemented in other state forests and natural areas.

The public are advised not to disturb the animals, but are welcome to visit from a distance as nature’s most determined weed eaters get to work.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.

 

Regenerative agriculture workshop

Photo by Janet Michael

Join Blandy Experimental Farm, on Tuesday, June 25th at 6:30 pm, for the first of a series of workshops and presentations on the techniques and benefits of restorative grazing.

In this series you will learn how to apply methods of grazing to reduce costs, produce grass-fed livestock as a profitable income, increase the soil quality, and provide support to a variety of wildlife.

We will view Part One of a newly released documentary, “Roots So Deep You Can See the
Devil Down There.”

This series follows how seven farmers in the US who have adopted these farming and grazing techniques over four years and continue today.

You will have the opportunity to meet local farmers who have applied the methods here in
Virginia, as well as a local goat herder who utilizes her animals for brush and weed clearing.

You’ll have the chance to talk through the goals and questions for your property if you like.

For more news from across the Shenandoah Valley, click here.