Here are some things to know about using goats for clearing brush/weeds:
1. If the area is not fenced, they will have to be tethered.
Our goats are broke to tether, but you still have to check them periodically to make sure they haven't gotten tangled in the brush.
We check ours in the morning, afternoon, and evening and untangle if they have gotten blackberry stems twisted in their line.
So, you will be expected to do this at least twice a day during your rental.
2. Are there any plants around that you don't want eaten? Are there any plants around that the goats can't eat? (Rhodies are an example)
If so, these need to be kept away from the goats since they'll eat almost anything! Tethering can keep them away, or these plants can be protected by your fencing them off or "covering" with sheets temporarily.
3. Goats are herding animals, so we only rent them out in groups of two or more.
4. If you have blackberries to get rid of, you'll have to do a bit of work to keep them from coming back (But this way is MUCH easier than without goats!)
First, let the goats do their business...they'll pick the plants down to the tough stalks. Then, use garden lopers to cut the stems into small pieces (foot long) and let them fall to the ground. Leave a piece attached to the rootball....you can pull up the roots (most of the time the dirt is mainly compost and they pull easily) or you can just dig them up. You can leave the stalks to rot, or rake them up and remove.
5. Do you have dogs? If so, you need to make sure that you introduce the goat to them and make sure that the dog isn't going to attack the goat. Some of our animals are rescues who have been attacked previously. A dog can kill a goat, so you need to keep them away unless supervised.
6. Goats are entertaining, smart, and loving animals...However, they are farm livestock. As such, you need to keep small children away from them unless supervised.
7. How long it takes depends on how large your area is...They don't take coffee breaks..They eat lots, and they're fun to have around (and they fertilize your area as a bonus!)
However, you'll be suprised at how quickly they can clear out an area...a lot of clearing can be done in a week with three goats!
9. What do you have to provide the goat? They need a bucket of water available at all times. Most of the time they drink very little because they get enough liquid from the brush they eat, but during hot weather they'll drink it up.
Basic Rental Information for Residential Clients
