Municipal crews and private contractors in Metro Vancouver are using goats to clear weeds and overgrown vegetation across public green spaces [1, 2].

This shift toward biological landscaping reduces the reliance on gasoline-powered machinery. By replacing traditional weed eaters with livestock, the city aims to lower carbon emissions and noise pollution while managing invasive plant species more effectively.

The program, which was active during the 2024 growing season, utilizes the natural grazing habits of goats to maintain urban landscapes [1, 2]. Unlike mechanical tools, goats can navigate difficult terrain and consume a variety of weeds without producing exhaust fumes.

“Goats are quiet, efficient and surprisingly hungry – they’re beating the weed-eater on every front,” a CTV News correspondent said [1].

The transition is part of a broader effort to integrate sustainable practices into city maintenance. The use of animals for vegetation control minimizes the labor costs associated with manual clearing, and the environmental impact of chemical herbicides.

“Using goats for vegetation management cuts emissions and lets us keep our parks looking great without the noise of machines,” a City of Vancouver Parks & Recreation spokesperson said [2].

City officials noted that the goats provide a quieter environment for residents and wildlife. The biological approach ensures that overgrown areas are managed without the disruptive roar of engines, which is a key priority for the urban centers of British Columbia.

““Goats are quiet, efficient and surprisingly hungry – they’re beating the weed-eater on every front,””

The adoption of 'targeted grazing' in Metro Vancouver reflects a growing trend in urban planning called regenerative landscaping. By replacing fossil-fuel-dependent machinery with livestock, cities can reduce their operational carbon footprint and noise pollution. This approach signals a move toward nature-based solutions for infrastructure maintenance, potentially scaling to other metropolitan areas seeking to meet strict climate goals.