Goats as a Tool for Fire Management on the Pueblo of Sandia

In response to the increased wildfire risk and spread of invasive species, the Sandia Pueblo Environment Department and ranch staff from Galloping Goat Pumpkin Patch Ranch, with funding from the Forest and Watershed Restoration Act through the New Mexico State Forestry Division, implemented a goat grazing program in 2021. The goat grazing program reduces fuel loads by reducing the biomass of invasive plants, creates clearing for new growth of cottonwoods and other native plants, and improves the soil. The goat grazing program also illustrates a collaborative partnership between Tribal technical staff and local ranchers to further management goals.