Quick, Grab Your Cameras: Simi Valley’s Goat Brigade Is Back, Guarding Reagan’s Library

Simi Valley’s Furry Firefighters: Goat Brigade Safeguards Reagan Library

(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) – Move over traditional firefighting tools, Simi Valley’s Ronald Reagan Presidential Library is safeguarding its historic grounds in a rather unusual but adorable fashion. Introducing the Ventura County Goat Brigade—a fleet of furry, four-legged munchers now deemed the cutest little firefighters this side of Ventura County.

Grazing the grounds of the iconic library, about 450 goats are diligently reducing fire hazards by devouring dense underbrush that could potentially fuel wildfires. These goats are not just any barnyard animals; they are specially trained fire-prevention experts, making them unique assets in wildfire management.

“The brigade is truly one-of-a-kind,” said a library spokesperson, smiling as the goats energetically tackled their leafy duties. “They eat up to an acre of fire fuel each day, significantly lowering the risk of wildfires around our treasured site.”

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, resting atop a picturesque hill, houses invaluable items including presidential records and personal effects of Ronald and Nancy Reagan. The significance of protecting such a site became starkly apparent during the Easy Fire of October 2019, which caused substantial damage close to the library’s grounds. Thanks to a proactive approach earlier that year involving these goats, the library was spared from more severe damage.

“Our little heroes came in months before the Easy Fire to create a natural firebreak around the complex,” explained Melissa Giller, library spokeswoman. “Their appetite for brush is insatiable, and it’s a critical part of our fire prevention strategy.”

Visitors to the library now have an added attraction—watching these eco-friendly firefighters at work. The goats are a hit among guests, offering both a practical and educational experience on sustainable fire management. “It’s a sight to see,” a visitor remarked. “It’s not every day you see goats playing such a crucial role in protecting important history.”

The Goat Brigade will be stationed around the Reagan Library for several weeks, charming spectators and chomping through brush with gusto. If you can’t catch them on the hill, they’re visible from the roads encircling the library, serving as a fluffy reminder to residents to manage vegetation in their own spaces.

This initiative not only reflects innovative firefighting techniques but also highlights the community’s commitment to preserving history with every nibble and bleat. So next time you’re in Simi Valley, swing by the Reagan Library—not just for a dose of history but to see the firefighting goats in action, a true blend of preservation and prevention.