Grazing Goebel Goats

file00043164902

Some people say goats will eat anything. While that may not be exactly true, they are well equipped to consume a wide variety of roughage. Their propensity to munch on a plethora of plants has led to a growth in goat grazing as a solution for overgrown brush and wooded areas. The city of Covington has “hired” a herd of goats to tame some of the overgrown wooded areas in Goebel Park.

A recent article in Northern Kentucky Magazine, “Got Your Goat”,  details the process of putting the goats to work inside city limits. A $5,000 grant is paying for the goats. City officials will monitor the progress of the goats at Goebel, and determine if goats are a cost effective solution for other areas of the city.

The goats themselves, corralled by an electric fence, have become a bit of an attraction as well. While the goats are not there for entertainment purposes (they are “on the clock” after  all), I’m sure it’s an interesting sight for park visitors and local residents.

So what do you think? Should goats be considered in other cities as natural solutions to weeds and overgrowth in parks and public spaces?

Improvements to Be Made at Goebel Park in Mainstrasse in Covington, Kentucky

TowerandPark
Goebel Park
in Mainstrasse Village in Covington, Kentucky has a list of improvements in the works:

  • Trail will be created to connect the park to the new riverfront and bike trails in Latonia, Kentucky
  • Play structures (that will also be interactive art pieces) will be designed
  • German folk art pieces will be added in Fall 2014
  • Large checkerboard will be painted on a floor to be used for large checker or chess games

The park is located between Fifth and Ninth streets. It has a public pool open to residents with passes. Picnic shelters, a gazebo, playground and grill are also available. The current walking trail connects the park to Kenny Shields Park.

Interested in learning what is happening with Goebel Park? Like this “Make Goebel Great” Facebook page here.