Goat herds return to riverbed to graze firebreaks
Program targets high-risk areas along Salinas River corridor
– The City of Paso Robles has announced the return of goats and sheep to graze primary firebreaks within the Salinas River corridor, as part of its ongoing vegetation management efforts.
The herds arrived on Friday, May 1.
Prescribed grazing is an approved method under the City’s Vegetation Management Program to reduce wildfire risk. The City selected the method for its effectiveness and minimal environmental impact. Since implementing the strategy in 2021, City fire officials have observed a reduction in fire starts and total acres burned. Annual operations continue to show the program’s role in reducing fire threats to the community.
With support from the San Luis Obispo County Fire Safe Council, the City will continue managing seasonal vegetation growth and maintaining established firebreaks within the Salinas River. Crews will prioritize areas of highest fire risk before expanding operations as resources allow.
Grazing began south of the Niblick Bridge and will progress north. A second herd will begin north of Highway 46 and move south. Operations are expected to be completed on or before June 10.
To establish and maintain the firebreaks, the City secured permits from the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. In April, the City demonstrated compliance with the conditions of its initial authorization and received an open permit to continue mitigation operations.
Portions of the multi-use path between 13th Street and the Niblick Bridge may be temporarily closed as grazing progresses. The City encourages the public to continue using the area while exercising caution around electric fencing used to contain the animals and avoiding contact with the fencing.
Who starts the riverbed fires?
Who starts the riverbed fires?