Goats graze greenbelt to reduce wildfire risk in Steiner Ranch

AUSTIN, Texas — A herd of hardworking goats are headed to Steiner Ranch to help reduce wildfire risk.

Steiner Ranch’s HOA and Lake Travis Fire and Rescue hired the goats to graze 24/7, now through Friday.

Goats will eat grass, plants and shrubs in the greenbelt along the Chaparral Hiking Trail.

Lake Travis Fire and Rescue said the pilot project is part of a broader effort to create a safer, more fire-resilient community by reducing fuels that could feed a wildfire.

“This partnership is a testament to the commitment of Steiner Ranch and Lake Travis Fire Rescue to prioritize community safety through innovative and sustainable approaches,” said Lake Travis Fire Rescue Fire Chief Robert B. Abbott. “Utilizing goats for vegetation management and fuels mitigation is not only cost-effective but also an environmentally friendly strategy. By clearing excess vegetation in high-risk areas, we are taking proactive steps to significantly reduce the wildfire threat and protect both lives and property.”

This project is part of Steiner Ranch’s ongoing “Firewise” initiatives to create defensible space and reduce wildfire hazards.

“Protecting our community from wildfire risk is a top priority, and this project is a vital piece of a larger strategy,” said Steiner Ranch Residential Owners Association President Debbie Tanner-Jacobs. “Our community has already put in tremendous effort, and now the goats are stepping in to tackle areas where the rugged terrain makes it challenging for people. Once the goats have cleared the vegetation, we’ll collaborate with Lake Travis Fire Rescue’s Fuels Mitigation team to complete the work and further enhance our wildfire resilience.”

The goats were also hired in Austin to eat poison ivy along Austin’s hike-and-bike trail back in October.