Meadow Restoration Project – Conservation Grazing
Nature is getting a helping hand – from goats!
As part of our mission to preserve and protect the Stage Nature Center for future generations, we’re tackling invasive plants like buckthorn and autumn olive through a unique and eco-friendly method called conservation grazing.
That’s right! A hardworking herd of goats from Goats for Hire (and some sheep too!) will be visiting the nature center to graze on invasive plants. By defoliating these species, goats help clear the way for native plants to flourish, boosting biodiversity and creating more opportunities for wildlife and a more scenic view for visitors.
Why Use Goats?
– Goats eliminate the need for non-selective chemical treatments.
– Grazing by goats is less disruptive to the soil than mechanical alternatives.
– They can reach areas that are tough for people to traverse.
– They make conservation fun to watch!
Ford Global Caring Month Project
Once the goats have cleared the site, Ford volunteers will help us cut down remaining shrubs, prevent regrowth, and plant new native species. Our community’s hands-on help is essential to making a lasting impact!
Be Part of the Experience
Come watch conservation in action – because sometimes the best tool for protecting nature … has four legs and a big appetite!
– Stop by Stage Nature Center while the goats are here – it’s an exciting opportunity to see them in action.
– Learn about conservation grazing and how it supports healthy habitats.
– Bring the family for a nature adventure – it’s educational and adorable.
Public Programs
These programs are FREE to the public. Donations are appreciated. Pre-registration is required as there are a limited number of spots available.
Goat Meet & Greets
Register for a 30-minute session to meet some of the goats at one of the following times. All ages welcome. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Each person participating must register.
Click here to register for Goat Meet & Greet – Sep 11, 2025 – 11:45 am
Click here to register for Goat Meet & Greet – Sep 11, 2025 – 12:05 pm
Click here to register for Goat Meet & Greet – Sep 11, 2025 – 12:25 pm
Click here to register for Goat Meet & Greet – Sep 13, 2025 – 1:15 pm
Click here to register for Goat Meet & Greet – Sep 13, 2025 – 1:35 pm
Click here to register for Goat Meet & Greet – Sep 13, 2025 – 1:55 pm
Click here to register for Goat Meet & Greet – Sep 13, 2025 – 2:45 pm
Click here to register for Goat Meet & Greet – Sep 13, 2025 – 3:05 pm
Click here to register for Goat Meet & Greet – Sep 13, 2025 – 3:25 pm
Goats for Hire Educational Talk
Register for this 1-hour indoor program to learn more about Goats for Hire and why we are utilizing the grazing power of goats and sheep to manage invasive plant species. Ages 14 & up. Each person participating must register.
Click here to register for Goats for Hire Educational Talk – Sep 12, 2025 – 6 pm
Volunteer Opportunities
Join us on Saturday, September 20th, from 9 am to 12 pm for our annual Fall Clean-Up Day to help us preserve our native flora by eradicating invasive non-native plants. We will also work to improve the nature trails and clean up the grounds.