A group of goats from Rhinebeck are tackling the ongoing challenge of invasive species at the Sands Point Preserve.

What was once a native oak forest in the heart of the preserve is now being overrun by invasive species, like poison ivy, English ivy, mugwort and more.

The 14 goats are expected to stay for the next two months. Due to their ability of navigating steep terrain, they’ll be able to get through places humans haven’t been successful with. They’ll be hard at work but doing what they love most - munching down on invasive species.

The conservancy will be monitoring results over the coming weeks and hope to expand it across the entire property.

After their current run, the goats will be back again next year to complete a two-year initiative.