Goats Take Over Fire Station for Green Cleanup

In a twist that might make you smile, a fire department in Missouri has swapped out loud machines for a herd of hungry goats to keep their land tidy. The West Metro Fire Protection District decided to try something different. They hired goats to clear out pesky weeds and overgrown plants around Station 3. The goats are like tiny, four-legged lawnmowers. They munch on tough plants like honeysuckle, poison ivy, and ragweed. This isn't just a fun idea; it's saving the department money. Assistant Chief John Bradley shared that using goats costs about half as much as using machines to clear the land. Plus, they only need to do it every other year.But it's not just about saving cash. This goat project is good for the planet too. By using goats, the fire department cuts down on harmful chemicals. The goats' hooves even help the soil stay healthy. The area is also designed to help endangered species, like monarch butterflies, which fly through Wildwood. Behind this goat squad is Emma Enright, a teacher who runs the goat business on the side. She took over the local Goats on the Go franchise from a friend. Enright works with the goats during her summer break. She brings out a big herd—often 50 goats—to clear the land. People are usually surprised by the number, expecting just a few. But 50 goats can get the job done in about a week. Enright loves the work. She says it's a great decision and she enjoys doing it. It's a win-win: the fire department saves money and helps the environment, and the goats get a tasty meal.