TO: Campus Community
FR: J. Dana Twedell, Associate Vice President for Facilities Planning and Operations
As part of the University’s commitment to sustainable practices, Facilities Management will be utilizing goats and sheep for managed grazing of specified areas on campus. The intent is to reduce available fire fuel and control vegetation in difficult-to-access areas by clearing dry, dead weeds, and eliminating both invasive and noxious species like thistle and blackberry. The first location for grazing will be the yellow horseshoe-shaped area surrounding the track.
The area will be fenced off for the duration of this work, which will take place from 11/6/2023 through 11/10/2023. A grazing contractor will be onsite 24/7 while the grazing is taking place in order to actively manage and care for the herds. Watering stations will be available for the sheep and goats, and temporary fencing will be in place for the duration. During this time, please keep in mind:
- Some fencing has the potential to be electric fencing, so please do not approach or touch any of the temporary fencing in place.
- Do not try to "pet" the herd.
- If any dogs are in use for herding, do not attempt to pet them.
- A temporary trailer for the grazing contractor will be placed at the track area so they are close to the herd.
This ecologically conscious method of vegetation management is a part of the University Integrated Pest Management (IPM) policy, which encourages non-chemical methods of control for weeds, brush, and associated areas.
If you have any questions or concerns, or would like additional information, please contact Facilities Management at 707-664-2317, or reach out to the Landscape Manager Troy McArdle at mcardlet@sonoma.edu.