Rochester Gas and Electric is partnering with a local farm for a new way to prevent service interruptions.

Rescue goats from Kaizen Ridge Farm in Victor are being used to limit weeds and clear overgrown vegetation in remote areas that are difficult for electric crews to reach, such as under transmission lines. 

RG&E says service interruptions are most often caused by trees or brush contacting power lines.

“Overgrown trees and brush lead to power outages, especially during storms,” Erin Perry, manager of vegetation management for RG&E and NYSEG, said in a statement. “When lead utility arborist, Matthew Steiner, presented this initiative I knew it was worth pursuing. Using goats to clear vegetation is a costeffective and eco-friendly approach to ensure customers receive safe and reliable service.”

“We’re proud to collaborate with RG&E in our mission to rescue goats,” Allison Sherman from Kaizen Ridge Farm said in a statement. “We have a mutually beneficial relationship that has allowed us to rescue over 25 goats and create a sustainable, eco-friendly solution for RG&E to maintain the vegetation in their rights of ways, benefiting the community and environment.” 

RG&E and Kaizen Ridge Farm say they are planning to bring goats to future RG&E events so that the public can not only interact with the goats, but learn more about the grazing project.