Goat Grazing in San Rafael

San Rafael Fire Department’s Vegetation Management Division is partnered with Department of Public Works to keep the open spaces of San Rafael safe from fire risk and danger. One of the main ways these large open spaces are kept clean for the wildfire season is with goats.

These four legged grazing machines are used to keep seasonal grasses and dead vegetation down to below the 3″ standard. This standard is held to all our Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) properties and homes. The low grasses hinder the fire’s ability to spread rapidly and into surrounding brush and trees.

Because of our residents and their support for Measure C, we continue to bring our furry friends back year after year. Measure C funds the Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority, a 17 agency Joint Powers Authority dedicated to proactive and comprehensive wildfire prevention efforts.  Learn more about Measure C and how these tax dollars are spent.

Summer 2021

Beginning on June 30, 2021, goat grazing fuel reduction work will commence on San Rafael open space and is expected to take 4-6 weeks to complete. The project work will be completed by the City’s goat grazing contractor, Living Systems Land Management.  Work will expand and enhance defensible space for structures and roads adjacent to and within the open space area over approximately 67 acres fuel reduction zone over five sites around the city (see map).

Portions of the open space may be closed to accommodate a safe work area. Please adhere to posted signage and closures.