Pasadena launches 600-goat grazing pilot in Arroyo Seco to reduce wildfire risk

Pasadena is launching a goat-grazing pilot in the Arroyo Seco that will deploy more than 600 goats to clear invasive plants and dry brush across nearly 100 acres over roughly two months, the Rose City Report said.

The program is intended to reduce wildfire risk and to return nutrients to the soil through nature-based vegetation management. The pilot will be introduced during Pasadena’s free Earth Day celebration on April 20 at 360 North Arroyo Boulevard, where organizers plan family-friendly activities connected to the initiative.

"Over 600 goats are taking on a new role in Pasadena," said Amelia Hawa, host of the Rose City Report on Pasadena Media.

The Earth Day events tied to the pilot will include goat yoga (sponsored by the Rose Bowl Stadium), a goat petting area, educational sessions with the goat herder and information booths run by city departments and local nonprofits. Program information and event details are available at wanarroyo.org/goats.

The report described the grazing as an alternative to conventional landscaping and fuel-reduction methods, emphasizing ecological benefits and hands-on public education. The city did not provide dollar figures or a procurement schedule in the segment.

Organizers framed the pilot as part of broader efforts to protect public and private property from wildfire; operational details such as fencing, animal care contractor names and full funding sources were not specified in the broadcast. The city has encouraged residents to attend the Earth Day event to learn more.