VANCOUVER, Wash. (AP) — Vancouver is relying on about two dozen goats to remove invasive plants in an overgrown park in what city officials are calling a “green” alternative to spraying.

The Columbian reports (http://bit.ly/1Vp4MFp ) that 25 goats will be clearing the brush in the enclosed 10-acre site for two weeks. It’s the first time the city has used goats for such labor, and Vancouver Parks Planner Monica Tubberville says the animals could be used for future projects.

The city is renting the herd for about $4,700.

Tubberville says the project is meant to determine whether the city can get rid of invasive plants in a way that’s better for the environment. She says it also helps cut down on physical labor.

The park is closed to the public while the goats are there.

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Information from: The Columbian, http://www.columbian.com

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