City of Louisville Open Space Continues with Second Round of Targeted Grazing 

As part of the recovery process following the Marshall Fire, The City of Louisville Open Space Division has implemented 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.

In the spring of 2023, cattle grazed on Davidson Mesa, and goats grazed on North Open Space.  There was a notable difference in vegetation before and after the grazing.

Schedule

• Cattle on Davidson Mesa Open Space - September 5-30, 2023 (view map below)
• Cattle on North Open Space - September 12-22, 2023 (view map below)
• Goats on North Open Space – September 2023 - Exact Date TBD (view map below)

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.