Goats to the Rescue at White Rock Lake

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  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, February 8th 2026 at 5:07 GMT by Patch
      Locales: Texas, UNITED STATES

Goats to the Rescue: Dallas Pioneers Eco-Friendly Invasive Species Control at White Rock Lake

DALLAS - In a move signaling a growing commitment to sustainable land management, the City of Dallas is employing a unique and increasingly popular method to combat invasive plant species at the iconic White Rock Lake: goats. A herd of approximately 60 goats, leased from a local ecological management company, are currently hard at work clearing Chinese Privet, a particularly aggressive invasive shrub, along the lake's shoreline. This pilot program, launched last week, is already garnering attention for its effectiveness and environmentally-friendly approach.

The problem of invasive species isn't new to White Rock Lake, or indeed, to urban ecosystems across the country. Chinese Privet ( Ligustrum sinense ) was originally introduced to the United States in the early 19th century as an ornamental plant. However, its rapid growth and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions quickly transformed it into a significant ecological threat. The shrub forms dense thickets, outcompeting native vegetation for sunlight, water, and nutrients. This drastically reduces biodiversity, degrades wildlife habitat, and can even impact water quality.

"Chinese Privet is a pretty aggressive plant and it outcompetes native plants," explains Paul Scoggins, Director of the City of Dallas Parks and Recreation Department. "Traditional methods of control, like herbicides and manual removal, are often costly, labor-intensive, and can have their own negative environmental consequences. We were looking for a more natural and sustainable way to address this issue, and the goats presented a compelling solution."

The use of goats for vegetation management, often referred to as "targeted grazing," is gaining traction nationwide. Unlike mechanical methods that can disturb the soil and damage remaining native plants, goats selectively graze on the invasive species, leaving desired vegetation intact. Their hooves also help to aerate the soil and distribute seeds, contributing to the restoration of the ecosystem. The goats' manure provides a natural fertilizer, further enhancing plant growth.

This isn't simply a case of letting loose a herd and hoping for the best. The company providing the goats works closely with the city to manage the grazing process, ensuring the animals are contained within designated areas and are closely monitored. Portable fencing is used to protect sensitive areas and to direct the goats towards the densest patches of Chinese Privet. The duration of the project, estimated to be several weeks, is determined by the size of the affected area and the density of the invasive growth.

While the White Rock Lake project is a pilot program, Scoggins and his team are optimistic about its potential. "We're really excited about this," he stated. "If it proves successful, we're hoping to expand the program to other areas within the park system where we're battling similar invasive species challenges. It's a really creative, sustainable way to manage this land and helps restore native plants."

The success of this initiative also highlights a broader trend within the city. Recent reports indicate a surge in attendance at the Dallas Zoo, reflecting a growing public interest in conservation and wildlife. Simultaneously, Dallas has been recognized as one of the best cities for young adults, a demographic increasingly focused on sustainability and environmental responsibility. This confluence of factors suggests a receptive environment for innovative solutions like targeted grazing.

The restoration of native vegetation at White Rock Lake will not only improve the aesthetic appeal of the area but will also have significant ecological benefits. Native plants provide essential food and shelter for a wide range of wildlife, including birds, insects, and mammals. By controlling the spread of invasive species, the city is actively working to enhance the health and resilience of the lake's ecosystem for generations to come. The project also offers a unique educational opportunity for the public, showcasing a sustainable and effective approach to land management.

The city is encouraging residents to learn more about the project and to follow the progress of the goat "work crew" through updates on the Dallas Parks and Recreation Department's social media channels.