Soto del Real uses a herd of 300 goats to prevent fires and maintain green areas

The municipality is using traditional grazing to clear sixteen hectares of land in a sustainable way.

Generic image of a herd of goats grazing in a rural mountain area.
IA

Generic image of a herd of goats grazing in a rural mountain area.

The municipality of Soto del Real has launched a controlled grazing initiative using a herd of 300 goats to clear 16 hectares of municipal land throughout the month of May.

The strategy aims to replace heavy machinery with an ancient technique that allows for the efficient clearing of hard-to-reach areas. The project, which began on May 14th near the Arroyo Matarrubias, is primarily focused on reducing dry biomass accumulation and minimizing forest fire risks as temperatures rise.
The work schedule includes moving the herd through the town center on May 16th, heading towards Parque del Río. After a ten-day stay in this area, the animals will conclude their work at the firebreaks near the Sierra Real residential area, completing a month-long preventive effort.
Beyond safety, this forest management approach provides significant environmental benefits, such as the elimination of noise pollution and a reduction in carbon emissions. Natural fertilization and seed dispersal promote soil regeneration, establishing a circular economy model that strengthens the town's commitment to sustainability.