Goats and Sheep are Grazing the Salinas Riverbed in Paso Robles

 

PASO ROBLES, CA – The City of Paso Robles announces the return of goats and sheep to graze

primary firebreaks within the Salinas River corridor. The herds arrived on Friday, May 1, 2026.

Prescribed grazing is an approved method under the City’s Vegetation Management Program to

reduce wildfire risk. It has been selected for its proven effectiveness and minimal environmental

impact. Since implementing this strategy in 2021, City fire officials have observed a measurable

reduction in fire starts and total acres burned. Annual operations continue to demonstrate the

program’s effectiveness in reducing fire threats to the community.

With support from the San Luis Obispo County Fire Safe Council, the City will continue to manage

seasonal vegetation growth and maintain established firebreaks within the Salinas River. Work

will prioritize areas of highest fire risk before expanding as resources allow. Grazing began south

of the Niblick Bridge and will progress north, while a second herd will begin north of Highway 46

and move south. Operations are expected to be completed on or before June 10, 2026.

To establish and maintain these firebreaks, the City secured required permits from the Central

Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

In April, the City demonstrated compliance with the conditions of its initial authorization, and

was issued an open permit to continue mitigation operations.

Portions of the multi-use path between 13th Street and the Niblick Bridge may be temporarily

closed as grazing progresses. The public is encouraged to continue using the area but should

exercise caution around electric fencing used to contain the animals and avoid contact with the

fencing.