Javea deploys 250 goats to graze vegetation and curb wildfire risk

In the Montgó region of Javea, a team of 250 goats has been introduced to graze on scrub and other plant material that can act as wildfire fuel. The initiative follows a pilot trial begun in January to test whether managed grazing can serve as an effective fire-prevention tool. Goats are herded through selected zones, avoiding flora micro-reserves and protected species areas, under the supervision of the Montgó Natural Park.

The program is a collaboration between Javea Town Hall, the livestock cooperative Creama, and park officials, reflecting a revival of traditional land-management practices for modern safety needs. If the approach continues to show results, authorities plan to extend it to additional parts of the municipality. Residents and visitors now see the goats moving across the landscape, a visible sign of the town’s effort to protect homes and natural areas from fire danger.