The City of Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, is bringing back its goat grazing program during the summer and fall of 2026 to help manage weeds at the West River’s Edge park area. This natural program uses the animals as an environmentally friendly way to control invasive plants without the use of chemical sprays.
The herd will be tasked with clearing weeds across 96 hectares of land throughout the season. To ensure the plants do not grow back, the goats will treat the targeted areas up to three times before the project wraps up later this year.
Two professional shepherds will work on-site to guide the goats to specific locations and monitor the herd. While the city is also known for its local sheep, these goats have the specific job of maintaining the landscape and protecting the health of the park.
City officials are asking park visitors and pet owners to keep their dogs away from the goat fencing to avoid frightening the animals. Residents should also follow all posted safety signs and respect the work being done by the shepherds to ensure the program runs smoothly.
