Goat grazing on Los Angeles’ Kite Hill sparks strong community bonds in weeks

This report covers how a recent goat grazing project on fire-prone Kite Hill not only reduces invasive weeds and fire risk but also unexpectedly unites neighbors, with experts emphasizing ecological benefits and local residents rallying support despite funding challenges.

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Goat grazing on Los Angeles’ Kite Hill has become a catalyst for both environmental management and community bonding. In early May, goats and sheep were introduced to the steep slopes of Kite Hill, where they consume invasive, flammable weeds threatening homes and freeways below.

Organizers emphasize the ecological benefits. Raskin said, "the benefits of grazing are insane, because the goats eat the seeds, so the vegetation density goes down every year because the seeds don’t germinate ... and they’re depositing their nutrient-rich manure into the soil." This natural weed control reduces fire risk and improves soil health.

The initiative has also sparked unexpected social benefits. Tessler said, "I’ve met more neighbors in the past two and a half weeks than I have in the last 15 years of living here." The project has fostered stronger community ties as residents come together around a shared environmental cause.

However, funding remains a challenge. Bush said she needs at least $10,000 to clear at least 10 acres before it can cover all its considerable costs. Expanding the grazing area would amplify both ecological and social benefits.

This innovative approach to urban land management highlights how environmental stewardship can simultaneously nurture community connections, making Kite Hill a model for sustainable urban living.
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Goat grazing on Los Angeles’ Kite Hill has rapidly fostered community connections while controlling invasive weeds. Residents report increased neighborly interactions and environmental benefits, as goats reduce vegetation density and enrich soil. Organizers seek $10,000 to expand grazing across 10 acres, enhancing fire safety and local bonds.
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The benefits of grazing are insane, because the goats eat the seeds, so the vegetation density goes down every year because the seeds don’t germinate ... and they’re depositing their nutrient-rich manure into the soil.
Raskin
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I’ve met more neighbors in the past two and a half weeks than I have in the last 15 year of living here.
Tessler
Key Facts
  • Goats and sheep began grazing on Kite Hill in early May to consume invasive, flammable weeds on steep slopes overlooking homes, freeways, and downtown Los Angeles.1
  • Bush stated a need for at least $10,000 to clear 10 acres to cover the considerable costs of the grazing project on Kite Hill.1
  • Goats reduce vegetation density by eating seeds, preventing seed germination, and enrich the soil by depositing nutrient-rich manure, enhancing ecological health.1
  • The grazing initiative fostered unprecedented neighborly connections in just two and a half weeks, strengthening community bonds around Kite Hill.1
Key Stats at a Glance
Minimum funding needed for grazing project
$10,000
1
Area to be cleared by grazing
10 acres
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