AUSTIN, Texas — The next time you're hoofing around Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, you should see some special friends.
As part of a partnership, The Trail Conservancy released a herd of 150 goats this week to help with poison ivy and invasive plant growth.
According to ATXtoday, The Trail Conservancy manages 110 unmowed acres, which allows the goats to make it safer by clearing the poison ivy and controlling the regrowth of invasive plants. The goats can also get into hard-to-reach areas to clear dense, unwanted brush.
The goats don't roam free. Workers will monitor and clean up any udderly ridiculous messes.
How to see the goats
The herd will be along the trail through Thursday, May 9, at the southeast end of the Butler Trail between Interstate 35 and the Longhorn Dam. After that, the goats should be back around August.
The Trail Conservancy also asks that you don't touch the goats and just watch them from a safe distance.
You can also help The Trail Conservancy through their "Adopt A Goat" program. For $20 a month, the goats will keep coming back to eat to keep the program running. If you want to donate more, a gift of $250 will net you a certificate that includes the name of your new furry friend.
