Goats, sheep return to Salinas Riverbed for fire prevention efforts

By STAFF REPORT · Tue May 05 2026

PASO ROBLES — The City of Paso Robles has brought back herds of goats and sheep to graze along the Salinas River corridor as part of its ongoing community risk reduction strategy.

The animals arrived May 1 and are being used to maintain primary firebreaks through prescribed grazing, a method officials say has proven effective in reducing wildfire risk while minimizing environmental impact. Since the program began in 2021, fire officials have reported a decrease in fire starts and total acreage burned.

With support from the San Luis Obispo County Fire Safe Council, grazing operations will focus first on high-risk areas. One herd began south of the Niblick Bridge and will move north, while a second herd started north of Highway 46 and will head south. Work is expected to be completed by June 10.

The City obtained necessary permits from the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to carry out the work.

As grazing progresses, portions of the multi-use path between 13th Street and Niblick Bridge may be temporarily closed. Officials advise the public to use caution around electric fencing and avoid contact with enclosures containing the animals.