New Invasive Plant Management Pilot Begins in September

Starting September 8, the City of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Activities (RPCA) will launch an innovative pilot project to help manage invasive plants in Alexandria’s parks.

As part of the pilot, a herd of goats will graze on targeted invasive vegetation along the slopes of All Veterans Park. The goats are expected to be on site for approximately 5–10 days, depending on how quickly they can eat the vegetation.

A Natural Approach to Invasive Plant Management

Goat grazing is a sustainable, environmentally friendly approach to managing invasive plants. It can be especially effective in areas that are difficult to reach with traditional equipment, including steep slopes and wooded areas.

By naturally grazing on invasive vegetation, the goats will help create conditions that support native plants and support a healthier habitat. Following the goats’ visit, a human crew will conduct additional follow-up work approximately 1–2 weeks following the goats grazing.

This pilot is part of the City’s ongoing commitment to science-based natural resource management and exploring innovative approaches to caring for Alexandria’s parks and green spaces.

What Residents Can Expect

Residents will not be directly impacted by the goat grazing area, as there are no adjacent properties. However, the presence of livestock may be of particular interest to residents who walk their dogs in the area.

While the goats are on site, dog walkers will be asked to keep dogs on leashes and give the goats plenty of space, especially if their dogs are reactive to livestock. 

Safety First: What Residents Should Know

The goats will be working behind a temporary electric fence throughout the project. The fencing will be checked daily to ensure it remains secure and that the animals are safe.

For the safety and comfort of both residents and the animals:

• Do not enter the fenced grazing area.
• Do not pet or feed the goats or sheep. The animals are not accessible to the public while they are on site.
• Keep children outside the fenced area and remind them to look, not touch.
• Keep dogs away from the livestock. If your dog is particularly reactive to livestock, RPCA asks that you consider keeping your dog home while the animals are on site.
• Give the animals plenty of space and allow their handlers to do their work.

The animals will remain on site throughout the pilot rather than being transported in and out each day. Their handler will provide fresh water daily and monitor their well-being.

The pilot also provides an opportunity for the community to learn more about invasive species, native plants and environmental stewardship. RPCA will share additional details later this month as preparations continue.

Stay tuned for more information as Alexandria gets ready to welcome its four-legged landscaping crew this September!

For more information about this project, contact katrina.napora@alexandriava.gov or visit alexandriava.gov/parks/program/goat-grazing-faqs.

For reasonable disability accommodations, contact jackie.person@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.5550, Virginia Relay 711.

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available. Please email LanguageAccess@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960.