FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 24, 2023
Invasive Plant Management and Control Measures Using Goats to Begin at Washington Park
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The Department of Parks and Recreation will begin its Invasive Plant Management program on July 31, with a unique approach of utilizing approximately 50 goats to consume unwanted plants. These efforts are designed to help control the damaging effects of invasive plant species in the City.
The first work zone will be the wooded area near the pool at Washington Park, and the goats should be on site for 1 week. The area will be cordoned off with an electrified fence, capable of delivering a small shock if touched. Citizens are cautioned not to touch the fence and advised to be mindful of machinery and workers in that area. Goat Busters, of Afton, VA has been contracted to do the work.
Through a process of containment, removal, restoration, and ongoing management, outside contractors and City Parks and Recreation staff will renovate natural areas by removing non-native shrubs, vines, and trees; and, where appropriate, re-plant with native species. As the City’s green spaces become fragmented through land development, the remaining undeveloped areas become more and more valuable for natural resource benefits such as tree canopy coverage, recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and mitigating damaging effects of climate change. Other control measures for invasive plants around the City will include tree cutting, bushhogging, and herbicide applications.
Media Contact
Rob Mathes
Management Specialist - Landscape
City of Charlottesville
(434) 970-3586
mathesr@charlottesville.gov
