What is targeted livestock grazing?

Targeted grazing is the careful use of livestock, such as goats or cattle, for short, designated periods in small areas to meet vegetation and fuels reduction management goals. 

Why goats and cows?

The City of Louisville chose to implement cattle grazing as part of its integrated weed management plan (IWMP) to help manage vegetation, reduce invasive plants, and lower the intensity of future wildfires. Cattle grazing can help improve soil health by providing natural fertilization through their manure, trampling vegetation to create organic matter, and stimulating soil microbial activity through grazing. Goat grazing can help reduce vegetation height and vigor and minimize ladder fuels by grazing the lower limbs of trees.

Where did the livestock come from?

The City of Open Space staff have partnered with  local ranchers whose goals are to implement regenerative grazing practices that mimic natural patterns on publicly held and privately owned land to help build native food resiliency. The breed of cows are Angus and Angus Hereford cross-breeds.

How many cows and goats will there be?

There will be approximately 35 cattle grazing on Davidson Mesa Open Space during the day and evening until June 8, 2024. There will be approximately 700 goats grazing on Dutch Creek Open Space until about May 31, 2024.

Who takes care of the livestock?

The ranchers are responsible for managing the grazing system, including moving the livestock to different grazing areas as needed, monitoring their health and well-being, and ensuring they have access to adequate food, water, and shelter.

What will the livestock be eating?

The cattle will be grazing on all vegetation on the Davidson Mesa including Intermediate Wheatgrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, Russian Thistle, Sweet Clover. By grazing on certain plant species, cows can help control invasive weeds and promote the growth of desired vegetation. The cattle will be grazing in each area for a short time and will be moved periodically to prevent overgrazing. 

Will there be poop?

Yes. Everybody poops, including the cows and goats grazing on Open Space. Cow manure can play an important role in regenerative grazing by providing natural fertilization for the soil, improving soil health, and promoting plant growth. When managed properly, cow manure can be a valuable resource for improving the sustainability and productivity of grazing systems.

Will the Davidson Mesa Trail remain open?

Yes, the Davidson Mesa Trail will remain open. The cattle will be contained in a small area with an electrified fence. A secondary non-electrified fence will be installed adjacent to trails. It may be necessary for segments of the trail to be closed briefly when the rancher transfers the cattle to a different area of the Davidson Mesa.

2024 Spring Grazing

Cattle Grazing

• May 8 to June 8, 2024
  Cattle will be grazing on Smooth Brome and other non-native cool-season pasture grass on North Open Space.

Goat Grazing

• May 20 - 31, 2024
  Goats will be grazing woody vegetation to reduce ladder fuels, reduce vegetation height and vigor, and control noxious weeds and other invasive plants at Dutch Creek Open Space.
• Fall 2024
  Goats will be returning to North Open Space. 

Goats on North Open Space October 9-18, 2023

As part of the recovery process following the Marshall Fire, The City of Louisville Open Space Division is implementing targeted regenerative grazing practices and several wildland fuels reduction treatments on select properties.

Targeted grazing is the careful use of livestock, such as goats or cattle, for short,  designated periods in small areas to meet vegetation management goals. The grazing is supported by Louisville City Council and aims to reduce the presence of invasive plants, lower the intensity of potential future wildfires, and improve soil health through the deposition of organic matter.

We encourage residents and visitors to view the animals while they are grazing.

To ensure the safety of both visitors and animals:

• Keep pets on leash and under physical control at all times. Trail closures may be necessary to protect livestock if dogs are not kept on leash.
• Do not touch or climb on the electric fence at any time. An electric fence will contain the livestock. Another non-electrified fence will be installed adjacent to the trail to keep trail users away from the live fence.
• Do not feed or pet the animals.

What to expect:

• The trail will remain open, but temporary trail closures may occur to move livestock from grazing area to another
• Livestock will be on the property throughout the days and evenings for the duration of the grazing period.
• There will be a reduction in vegetation height following the grazing time

Cows were Back on Davidson Mesa Open Space this September!

From September 5-October 3, a herd of approximately 35 cattle will graze during the day and evening in three designated areas (see map below) of Davidson Mesa Open Space. The cattle will begin at the west end of the property near Highway 36, and then the ranchers will move them to the east end of the property with a cattle drive that the public can attend.

Watch Video >

For more information please read our FAQ below.

Educational Opportunities

The following educational opportunity is available for those interested in learning more about cattle and regenerative grazing.

Cattle Drive Open House

Date TBD
At Davidson Mesa Open Space

Ever heard of cattle drives across the west? Join first-generation rancher Andy Breiter and his team from Grama Grass & Livestock as they “drive” the herd of cows across Davidson Mesa! Stay after the move to learn about regenerative agriculture and how they're positively impacting Davidson Mesa, and ask any questions you may have.