Simple Goat Powered Mower
Protecting the Plants
The area around our home, like most places, is where most of the plant & tree growth occur. This is also the place where the farm animals are not allowed. We use 6’ fence, gates, and several dogs to keep them out. We have had too many trees, flowers, and plants be demolished by a curious goat or wandering chicken.
Monsoon Rain Brings Green
In the springtime and especially after the first monsoon rain, green growth jumps out everywhere but mostly in the “farm animals not allowed” courtyard. Yes, the grass is greener on the other side.
Long grasses and weeds are mowed and the fallen mesquite beans are carefully gathered up for the animals. However, this takes lots of time and energy so, this year we came up with a new method.
Free Lawn Mower Service
Watch the video below :)
Free Lawn Mower Service
We have between 2 and 3 goats “mowing” at various times. Securing them is critical. We have had one problem with a lead rope coming loose but fortunately, we only lost a few leaves. Now we double-check everything before leaving them on their own. Because they are close to the house, I can check on them frequently.
Moving them around keeps them in a continuous clean area while dropping a bit of “fertilizer” here and there. When we go to move the goats, they can hardly wait to get to a new, fresh feed area.
At first I was concerned to use a chocker collar but as I observed the goat, I realized their necks are strong. Because they are smart, it quickly trains them as well.
By the time they have “mowed” their way around the courtyard, it’s time to do it again. They are happy to “clean up” and we are happy to let them do the work :)
Shelly
Summer 2013
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Resources
www.greenhomebuilding.com/adobe.htm
www.earthbagbuilding.com/articles.htm
www.earthbagplans.wordpress.com
We moved from the city to the country in 2005. Since then, we have been building structures, raising livestock and growing some of our own foods. We are crazy about family, nutrition and want the best for our growing family.
