News Flash

The City of Sequim Public Works Department will conduct a pilot project using goats to manage the vegetation on City property. The pilot project will take place on property adjacent to the City Shop, on Second Avenue just south of Hemlock Street, on Thursday, February 22 and Friday, February 23. The public is welcome to view the operation from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, but is advised to be prepared for muddy conditions and to dress appropriately for winter weather.

The City will use three goats, nicknamed the “Vege-lantes,” to pilot the program and to learn how much vegetation can be consumed in a confined area within a designated time period. This information will be used to potentially develop a long-term program utilizing goats to help manage the vegetation around City storm water basins. The basins have steep slopes and are difficult for staff to navigate. The goats are on loan from City of Sequim Administrative Services Director Sue Hagener.

The pilot program is a part of the City’s participation in the Innovation Academy through the Alliance for Innovation. The nine month program includes instruction on how to develop innovative thinking with an organization and requires the development and testing of a program that embodies creative problem solving and delivery. Sequim’s ten member team will present their project at the Transforming Local Government Conference in Tacoma on April 6.

Please contact the Public Works Department at (360) 683-4908 or tbrown@sequimwa.gov with questions.