City of Dallas set to begin eco-friendly effort to clear invasive plants at White Rock Lake

Dallas, Texas – In a unique and environmentally friendly effort to restore natural habitat, the City of Dallas is launching a vegetation management project that uses goats to help control the spread of invasive privet near White Rock Lake.

260 Goats to Graze Over 11.5 Acres

Beginning on Thursday, February 5, 260 goats will be deployed to graze on an estimated 11.5 acres of land in the prairie area adjacent to the Bath House and Cultural Center. The goats are being brought in from Fort Worth and are scheduled to arrive between 10 a.m. and noon.

The goal of this project is to remove thick, fast-spreading privet, a non-native plant that often chokes out native species and disrupts local ecosystems. This method of using goats provides a natural alternative to chemical herbicides or machinery, aligning with the city’s commitment to sustainable park management.

To ensure effective grazing, an electric fence will be repositioned daily, enclosing one to 1.5-acre sections at a time. This allows the goats to graze thoroughly and prevents overgrazing in any one area.

A shepherd will be on-site 24 hours a day to oversee the animals, monitor their progress, and ensure the safety of both the goats and park visitors. The entire project is expected to be completed in about a week.

The goats will begin their work at the Bath House Cultural Center, located at 521 E Lawther Dr, Dallas, TX 75218.

This creative initiative is just one of several steps the Dallas Park and Recreation Department is taking to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the city’s beloved parks and open spaces.