**Hi-tech ‘Bio-Goats’ tackle overgrowth in Welsh churchyard as public cautioned to keep distance**
In the West Wales town of Narberth, a rather innovative and environmentally conscious solution has been deployed to tackle overgrown vegetation at a historic churchyard: an industrious herd of GPS-controlled goats. Narberth Town Council, seeking alternatives to chemical weedkillers and labour-intensive clearance, made the decision to trial “Bio-Goats” in the grounds of St Andrew’s Church. This move forms part of a wider biodiversity and environmental strategy for the area.
The goats, which hail from Clynderwen and are managed by the local company Biogoats 2 Rent, are being utilised for a two-to-three week period to graze brambles and other invasive plants. The animals’ movement is strictly managed through GPS technology, ensuring they remain within defined boundaries and away from sensitive grave markers and pathways. This cutting-edge technique has drawn both attention and curiosity from locals and visitors.
In a public statement, Narberth Town Council explained the reasoning behind the decision. “We’re continuing our efforts to transform the churchyard into a more diverse and wildlife-friendly environment,” the statement said. “The use of Bio-Goats allows us to avoid herbicides and heavy equipment, supporting our commitment to sustainable management of public spaces.” The council also confirmed that daily welfare checks are being conducted to guarantee the safety and health of the goats while they are on site.
However, along with the novelty, there comes a call for caution. The council has made it clear that while many residents, especially children, may be keen to observe the animals at work, all visitors are being urged to keep their distance from the goats and to avoid entering their designated area. Dog owners are being instructed to keep their pets on leads, and parents are asked to make sure youngsters stay well away from the grazing herd.
The reasoning behind these strict guidelines is twofold: to safeguard public safety, and to ensure the goats are not stressed or distracted from their grazing duties. “We understand that the presence of goats may draw attention,” reads the council’s notice. “But any interaction could unsettle them and undermine the effectiveness of this natural solution.” The initiative is part of a growing trend in the UK towards low-impact and sustainable land management practices.
Richard and Dawn, the husband-and-wife team behind Biogoats 2 Rent, have been running the business for six years. Their goats have previously undertaken similar work for Pembrokeshire Council and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, with the animals recognised for their efforts at locations such as Canaston Bridge and Tenby’s St Mary’s Church. The business is believed to be unique in the UK, with demand for their service stretching beyond the region.
The goats steer clear of traditional collars in favour of wearable GPS devices, which enables precise control over their grazing territory. The method has even featured on the television series “Clarkson’s Farm,” prompting Richard to joke that the idea was “borrowed” from them. “We often get enquiries from across the United Kingdom, but logistics mean we tend to work locally,” he remarked.
Such technology-driven grazing projects are being watched closely by conservation and local authorities nationwide as they seek alternatives to harmful chemicals and heavy machinery. Advocates say the goats create minimal disturbance, fertilise the soil naturally, and eat invasive weeds other methods struggle to eradicate.
For Narberth, the Bio-Goats are expected to make a notable difference to the appearance and health of St Andrew’s churchyard, helping to shape a more attractive and biodiverse community space. The council is monitoring the trial’s progress and will study the results before considering a longer-term programme or expansion to other sites.
As this eco-friendly initiative continues, residents and visitors alike are being reminded to respect the animals’ space and the unique opportunity to see sustainable land management in action. With a mix of traditional pastoral know-how and modern technology, the people of Narberth are turning heads – and turning back the undergrowth – one goat at a time.