Goat Grazing for Wildfire Resilence
A sustainable approach helping Palos Verdes Estates reduce wildfire risk, expand vegetation management, and maximize municipal resources.
The Challenge
A Landscape that Requires a Different Approach
Steep canyons, open-spaces, and dry seasonal vegetation create wildfire risks that can be difficult to address with conventional methods alone.
- Challenging terrain
- Extensive seasonal growth
- Sensitive natural landscapes
- Need for efficient coverage
Why Goats?
What do goats have to do with wildfire resilience?
In Palos Verdes Estates, goats are helping manage dry vegetation on hard-to-reach hillsides through a natural and efficient approach that reduces impact to sensitive terrain.
Natural Vegetation Removal
Access to Steep Terrain
Reduced Equipment Use
Visible Wildfire- Preparedness
Goats at Work: Targeted Grazing in Action
From Pilot Program to Expanded Success
2019
City launched pilot goat grazing program.
2025
Reintroduce to high-priority areas.
2026
Expanded to 127+ acres alongside traditional weed abatement.
Built for the Terrain
Goats reach areas that crews and equipment often cannot, reducing brush and invasive vegetation while minimizing disturbance.
- Navigates steep terrain
- Controls dry vegetation
- Limits equipment impacts
- Supports sustainable vegetation management
- Creates community awareness
Measurable Results
Combining targeted grazing with traditional services expanded fuel-reduction efforts while lowering costs.
Acres Treated Through Grazing
Additional Acres Received Weed Abatement
Cost Reduction Under the Program Approach
Acres Treated Through Grazing
Additional Acres Received Weed Abatement
Cost Reduction Under the Program Approach
HR Green's Role
Staff Augmentation in Action
HR Green serves as an extension of City staff by providing:
- Program planning
- Technical support
- Contract administration
- Program implementation
The goat-grazing program is one example of a much broader partnership.
A Long-Standing Municipal Partnership
Beyond wildfire preparedness, HR Green supports the City across multiple service areas.
Beyond wildfire preparedness, HR Green supports the City across multiple service areas.
- Civil Engineering
- Building + Safety Administration
- Transportation Planning
- Public Works Inspection
- CIP Program Management
- Grand Writing + Administration
Community Benefits + a Scalable Model for Wildfire Preparedness
Palos Verdes Estates demonstrates how sustainable practices and municipal support can work together to improve resilience, reduce risk, and maximize resources.
Expanded Fuel > More acreage treated
Improved Defensible Space > Reduced vegetation near homes and infrastructure
Lower Costs > Greater program efficiency
Healthier Landscapes > Less reliance on heavy equipment
Greater Awareness > A visible reminder of community preparedness
Creative solutions. Practical support. Stronger communities.
The Palos Verdes Estates goat-grazing program shows how innovative ideas can deliver measurable results when supported by the right municipal resources and expertise.