CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The city’s four-legged maintenance crew has returned to Cheyenne’s creek beds, where they’ll spend the next several weeks clearing invasive plant species using their natural grazing habits. According to the Wyoming Tribune Eagle, the program—now in its third year—has become a local fixture, blending ecological restoration with public engagement.
The goats, provided by a private contractor under contract with the city, arrived earlier this month and will work alongside city crews to manage vegetation along Cheyenne’s urban creek system, which spans over 12 miles of waterways. City officials say the goats are particularly effective at targeting Russian olive and tamarix (salt cedar), non-native plants that crowd out native species and degrade water quality.
“This isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about restoring the health of our creeks,” said Cheyenne Parks and Recreation Director Mark Johnson in a statement. “Goats are far more efficient than mowing or herbicides, and they leave the soil undisturbed, which helps prevent erosion.” The program costs the city approximately $15,000 annually, including transportation and herd management, according to city budget documents.
Why Cheyenne Turned to Goats for Creek Maintenance
Cheyenne’s goat program is part of a growing trend in natural land management that uses herbivores to control invasive species. Unlike traditional methods—such as chemical treatments or mechanical clearing—the goats leave behind nutrient-rich manure that enriches the soil, while their selective grazing targets problem plants without harming native vegetation.
A 2022 study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that goat grazing reduced invasive plant coverage by up to 70% in test sites, compared to a 30% reduction from mowing alone. Cheyenne’s program mirrors similar initiatives in San Francisco and Rocky Mountain National Park, where goats have been used for decades to manage wildfire fuel loads and restore prairie ecosystems.
Local ecologist Dr. Elena Vasquez of the University of Wyoming Ecology Department noted that the goats’ impact extends beyond vegetation control. “Their presence also creates microhabitats for insects and small mammals, which in turn supports bird populations along the creek corridors,” she said. “It’s a multi-layered benefit.”
Where to See Cheyenne’s Working Goats—and How They’re Managed
The goats are currently stationed along Crow Creek and Dry Creek, two of the city’s most ecologically sensitive waterways. Residents can spot them near designated grazing areas marked with yellow signs, though city officials advise keeping a safe distance to avoid disturbing the animals. A schedule of public viewing opportunities will be posted on the city’s website.
The herd consists of 25 adult goats, including both nannies and billies, and is overseen by a certified goat handler who monitors their health and grazing patterns. The city contracts with Wyoming Goat Management, a local business that has provided the herd since the program’s inception in 2021. “We rotate the goats between different sections of the creek to ensure even coverage,” explained Handler Jake Reynolds. “They’re also fitted with GPS collars for safety and tracking.”
How the Goat Program Compares to Other Cities’ Efforts
Cheyenne’s approach is part of a broader shift in urban land management, where municipalities are increasingly turning to biological controls to address environmental challenges. Below is a comparison of how Cheyenne’s program stacks up against similar initiatives in other cities:
| City | Program Start | Primary Goal | Herd Size | Annual Cost | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheyenne, WY | 2021 | Invasive plant control along creeks | 25 goats | $15,000 | Soil enrichment and erosion prevention |
| San Francisco, CA | 2018 | Wildfire fuel reduction in parks | 50 goats | $30,000 | Reduces fire risk by 60% |
| Denver, CO | 2019 | Restoration of prairie ecosystems | 30 goats | $20,000 | Supports native pollinators |
While Cheyenne’s program is smaller in scale than those in larger cities, officials emphasize its cost-effectiveness and alignment with the city’s sustainability goals. “We’re not just clearing vegetation—we’re restoring the natural function of these waterways,” said Johnson. “And the goats do it in a way that’s visible to the community, which builds support for conservation efforts.”
What’s Next for Cheyenne’s Goat Program
City officials have indicated they plan to expand the program in 2025, potentially adding a second herd to cover additional creek sections. A public hearing on the proposal is scheduled for October 15, where residents can provide feedback. In the meantime, the current herd will continue grazing through early October, with final assessments conducted by the University of Wyoming’s Ecology Department to measure the program’s impact on native plant recovery.
For those interested in learning more or volunteering to help with related conservation efforts, the city’s Volunteer Program offers opportunities to participate in creek cleanups and invasive species monitoring. “This is a great example of how small, targeted actions can have a big impact on our environment,” said Johnson. “We encourage everyone to come out and see these goats in action.”
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