City Grazing

City Grazing is a nonprofit organization based in San Francisco, California, dedicated to sustainable land management through the innovative use of goat grazing. Established over a decade ago, City Grazing has developed a unique model that combines environmental stewardship with community engagement, utilizing a herd of over 100 adopted goats to provide services such as weed removal, fire hazard reduction, and soil enhancement.

Mission and Services

City Grazing's mission is to improve the environment and community health in the San Francisco Bay Area through managed grazing. The organization offers various services, including:

• Weed Removal: Goats are employed to naturally eliminate invasive plant species, such as English Ivy and Himalayan blackberry, which helps in maintaining local ecosystems.

• Fire Hazard Reduction: By grazing on brush and dry vegetation, the goats reduce the potential fuel for wildfires, thereby enhancing community safety.

• Soil Enhancement: Goat manure provides essential nutrients back into the soil, promoting soil health and fostering the growth of native plant species.

City Grazing also focuses on education and community engagement, partnering with schools and local organizations to raise awareness about the benefits of goat grazing and to inspire urban residents to connect more deeply with their natural environment. The organization provides low-to-no-cost consulting services to those interested in the benefits of grazing.

Community Impact

The organization places a strong emphasis on community well-being. City Grazing actively involves local residents in its operations and hires from historically underserved populations, providing job training and living wages. This approach not only supports the local economy but also fosters a sense of community ownership and connection to the environment.

The Goat Herd

City Grazing is notable for its unique herd of goats, each of which has been rescued or adopted. Many of the goats were once dairy animals or were in danger of being sold for meat. The organization ensures that these animals are well cared for, creating a friendly and engaging environment that promotes public interaction through school visits and community events.

Conclusion

City Grazing exemplifies a creative and effective approach to land management, emphasizing sustainability, community involvement, and animal welfare. By integrating ecological practices with community outreach, the organization not only addresses pressing environmental issues but also enriches the lives of people in the Bay Area, making it a valuable asset to the community.