Vermont public power utility Stowe Electric Department on Oct. 18 announced its collaboration with Slippery Slope Goats LLC and Agritech Institute for Small Farms to launch an innovative grazing pilot program designed to sustainably manage vegetation along transmission lines.
This initiative utilizes grazing goats to remove bush and invasive plants while improving utility reliability for Stowe Electric customers.
The use of livestock for removal of brush along transmission lines located in rugged terrain offers an innovative, fossil fuel-free approach to vegetation management, the utility noted.
Working alongside Aimee Braxmeier, the owner of Slippery Slope Goats LLC, Stowe Electric Department aims to reduce reliance on mechanical clearing methods while fostering biodiversity.
“We are excited to partner with the Agritech Institute for Small Farms to utilize goats for grazing along a challenging one-mile section of our transmission line that serves Mountain Road,” said Jackie Pratt, Stowe Electric Department General Manager. “This innovative approach allows us to effectively manage substantial vegetation growth, ultimately improving reliability for our customers. Once the goats have done their work, it will be much easier for our crews to navigate the terrain and remove larger growth. As a small utility, we embrace opportunities to explore sustainable solutions like this one for vegetation management.”
“This innovative grazing program embodies Stowe Electric’s commitment to sustainability and resilience,” it said.