Open Space and Mountain Parks Department (OSMP) will temporarily impose an “on-leash-only” restriction for all dogs and their companions using the Big Bluestem trail between July 25 and Aug. 9, while goats are used to combat the invasive weed, chicory, in that area.

“The tallgrass prairie habitat along this trail is rare worldwide, and right now it’s threatened by the spread of chicory that has built up over past years,” said Laurie Deiter, OSMP restoration ecologist and Integrated Pest Management specialist. “Goats are one tool against these invasive plants because they prefer to eat woody plants like chicory and leave the tender native grasses.”

Deiter added that using goats means that OSMP does not resort to chemical control. She said that OSMP also plans on using cattle grazing and prescribed burning in years to come to finish what the goats start.

The leash requirement is necessary to keep the goats safe. There will be a person staying on site throughout the period, keeping an eye on the goats, moving them from one area to another and providing them with water.

“We want to thank the public in advance for complying with this temporary change in regulations. This cooperation is necessary to make these restoration efforts successful,” said Eric Stone, OSMP division manager.