Goats return to graze Basin Recreation land for weed control, wildfire prevention

SNYDERVILLE BASIN, Utah — Goats returned this week to graze across open space areas in the Snyderville Basin, part of an ongoing effort by Basin Recreation to manage vegetation, mitigate weeds, and reduce wildfire risk.

Basin Recreation has partnered again with 4 Leaf Ranch to implement the grazing operation, which began the week of July 13. The goats are expected to move through approximately two acres per day, targeting two primary areas: the grassy meadows of Willow Creek and the fire egress zone in Toll Canyon.

The District piloted the program in 2019 and is expanding its scope this year to include wildfire prevention. “Goat grazing is an efficient and cost-effective way of removing weeds and potential wildfire fuel from a specific area.” Basin Recreation staff stated in a release. The process also helps restore native grasslands and lessens the need for herbicide treatments.

Unlike traditional mechanical or chemical vegetation management methods, goats offer a low-impact, natural alternative. As they browse, the animals consume weeds, shrubs, tall grasses and non-native plants—many of which pose fire risks or inhibit native habitat growth.

The project uses low-voltage electric fencing to guide the goats, while trained herding dogs help keep the animals in designated areas and protect them from potential predators. Staff from 4 Leaf Ranch oversee the operation and monitor the health and safety of the herd throughout the process.

The grazing areas will remain open to the public during the operation. Basin Recreation urges visitors to observe leash laws and keep dogs physically contained while goats and herding dogs are on site.

Founded in 1986, Basin Recreation manages over 2,300 acres of open space, more than 170 miles of trails, and an 87,000-square-foot indoor fieldhouse. The District also oversees several parks and community programs throughout the year.