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Council hears goat grazing presentation for wildfire prevention; directs staff to explore deployments
Summary
The council received a presentation on using targeted goat grazing to reduce brush and wildfire risk in Irvine’s open space and directed staff to explore possible deployments, including coordination with Orange County Fire Authority.
A presentation on goat grazing for wildland vegetation management drew council attention on March 25 as presenters from Sage Environmental and former Mayor Christina Shea described how targeted herds reduce black mustard and other invasive fuels and can create safer vertical separation between ground fuels and trees.
Council members praised the approach as a low‑chemical, low‑impact tool used by cities and fire authorities elsewhere. Staff said there are no goats currently deployed in Irvine but that city staff have worked with Sage Environmental previously and will follow up to develop a deployment plan and coordinate with the Orange County Fire Authority on priority locations. The council’s apparent action was to receive the presentation and have staff explore options citywide. Public comments and several council speakers emphasized Bommer/Balmer Canyon experience and the species goats avoid (coastal sage scrub).
