The goats are coming back to the trail. We repeat — the goats are coming back on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.
In partnership with vegetation management company Rent-a-Ruminant, The Trail Conservancy will release a herd of 150 goats next week to alleviate poison ivy and invasive plant overgrowth.
Why goats?
In short, goats love to eat. Not only are they hungry, they are also surefooted enough to get to hard-to-reach areas and provide an eco-friendly way to clear dense, unwanted brush. Don’t worry — workers monitor and clean up after them.
According to The Trail Conservancy’s Park Operations Director, Grady Reed, the organization manages 110 unmowed acres. The goats not only make it safer by clearing poison ivy, they also help contractors target and control regrowth of invasive plants.
This is not the first time the goats have hit the trail — the Rent-a-Ruminant goats made their ATX debut in July 2023 to kick off the pilot program, worked 15 acres, and they’ve been back a few times since.
How can I see the goats?
This time around, the herd will work in three locations along the trail, starting west of Zilker Park around Monday, Aug. 18, and stay into September.
It’s important to note that the goats are covered in poison ivy, which doesn’t impact their skin, but it could give you a rash. Coupled with the fact that you’re a stranger to the goats, The Trail Conservancy asks that you don’t touch them and watch from a safe distance.
How can I help The Trail conservancy?
If you like seeing the goats and want to see them come back, you can contribute to funding their visits through the “Adopt a Goat” program for $20-$250 per month. Otherwise, The Trail Conservancy offers 80+ volunteer opportunities.
