Goats Graze Away Invasive Plant Species at Gonder’s Flats

• Niagara Parks launches Green Grazers Initiative to assist with removal of phragmites, an invasive plant species at Gonder’s Flats
• Local farmer to bring and monitor goats daily to graze at the site for week-long pilot project beginning June 24
• While Gonder’s Flats remains open, visitors are advised not to approach goats due to their shy nature

Fort Erie, ON – Niagara Parks’ Environmental Stewardship team has launched the Green Grazers Initiative, a week-long pilot project at Gonder’s Flats in Fort Erie, that uses goats to target the removal of phragmites, an invasive species.

Supported by the Niagara Parks Foundation, the Green Grazers initiative explores the use of goats as a chemical-free, sustainable and low-impact solution for invasive species management.

As of Monday, June 24, a local farmer will be bringing a herd of goats daily to graze at Gonder’s Flats, the site of a recent wetland restoration project. Goats naturally graze on various plants, including invasives, promoting soil health, biodiversity and community engagements. The goats will be monitored and provided with water and shade on-site.

Gonder’s Flats is a natural area along the Niagara Parkway near Townline Road, adjacent to the Niagara River. Niagara Parks has undertaken an extensive wetland and restoration project for the area that began in 2014, made possible through collaboration with partners including the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, Ducks Unlimited Canada, Land Care Niagara, the Niagara Community Foundation and the Ontario Land Trust Alliance.

Progress to date includes the removal of eroded asphalt, an archaeological assessment, shoreline restoration, trail upgrades to improve public access. Additionally, the reintroduction of native plant species, the excavation of a 1.5-hectare (4-acre) pond and berms after removing dead Ash trees and invasive species, as well as planting native vegetation, including aquatic plants, trees, grasses, wildflowers, and shrubs. As the restored area will continue to naturalize gradually over time, the wetland will improve water quality, support local biodiversity, protect species at risk, prevent erosion and flooding and create recreational opportunities for the community. The Green Grazers initiative will help prevent the spread of phragmites into this newly restored area.

Although Gonder’s Flats remains open to the public, visitors are advised not to approach the goats due to their shy and sensitive nature.

For more information about Niagara Parks’ environmental stewardship work visit niagaraparks.com/environment.

Media Assets are available here.