Goats, sheep deployed to clear vegetation along Mill Creek levees in Walla Walla

WALLA WALLA — A herd of goats and sheep is returning to work along Mill Creek to clear weeds and heavy brush from local levees, federal officials announced.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Walla Walla District will use the animals to remove vegetation along shoreline levees from the Mill Creek Diversion Dam adjacent Rooks Park downstream to the metal footbridge near the Mill Creek Office. The project provides an eco-friendly way to clear steep areas without relying on herbicides or burning. Clearing the plant growth allows Corps staff to safely inspect the levees later this year ahead of flood season.

The first phase of grazing begins on the south levee near the dam at Rooks Park. Due to the animals’ presence, park officials are enforcing a mandatory four-week leash rule for dogs on both sides of the creek.

Rangers warn that unleashed pets risk contacting electric fences or clashing with protective guard dogs. Extra patrols will enforce the rule.

“The goats are here to help us with the maintenance of the levees where it would be difficult to do by hand,” said Seth Langianese, a park ranger for the Mill Creek office. “We want to remind the public to look but not touch, and allow the goats, sheep and shepherd dogs to do their work.”

In-water recreation in the Mill Creek channel along the work zone is temporarily suspended, though the metal footbridge remains open. Visitors can still play in the water downstream of the bridge or at Bennington Lake.

Photo courtesy USACE

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Elkhorn Media Group