Last week, over 40 goats began clearing approximately 3 acres of invasive weeds around the El Paso County Jail.
Owned by local rancher B3C Show Goats, these four-legged partners will graze around the El Paso County Jail and surrounding facilities. This natural land management method provides effective weed control, enriches the soil, and offers a cost-saving alternative to traditional vegetation management.
In addition to these benefits, goat grazing improves pasture health, reduces wildfire risk, and supports local biodiversity. By the end of the operation, the area will be significantly safer from fire hazards, without using herbicides, which can contain harmful chemicals.
“As part of our commitment to protecting the community and responsibly managing county resources, we are always exploring creative, effective solutions that improve public safety and operational efficiency,” said El Paso County Sheriff and Fire Warden Joseph Roybal. “This collaborative effort reflects how innovative partnerships can produce meaningful results for both residents and taxpayers.”
Sheriff Roybal also recognized the contributions of Detentions Bureau personnel who helped coordinate the effort and expressed appreciation to the local agricultural partner, B3C Show Goats, for supporting this unique, first-of-its-kind initiative in the county.
Over the next two weeks, community members are welcome to visit the jail and observe the goats in action.
Visiting hours for the “baa-ad” goats are from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily.
Visitors should park at the El Paso County Jail Visitor Center, located at 2727 E. Las Vegas St., Colorado Springs, CO 80906. Viewing is limited to the area north of the flagpoles directly in front of the visitor parking lot.
For safety and security reasons, community members are asked to refrain from walking around the jail perimeter, as the area must remain secure.
