Hillsides throughout the Loafer Creek Recreation Area near State Route 162 are looking different as goats and sheep from Hanski Family Farms are assisting the Department of Water Resources (DWR) with fuel reduction efforts on approximately 140 acres of property. Targeted grazing minimizes the rate of spread of a potential fire by reducing ground fuels, ladder fuels, and overgrown vegetation. The goats and sheep graze on grasses, leaves, poison oak, invasive weeds, and a variety of shrubs and trees. By standing on their hind legs, they can reduce ladder fuels up to four feet high.    

Grazing areas will be cordoned off with an electric fence for approximately 6-8 weeks and informational signs will be posted for public safety. Herdsmen and guard dogs will be present to protect the animals while they work. The public is urged to stay clear of the electric fence and keep pets away so the animals are not disturbed.   

The goat grazing project is a collaborative effort between the Butte Fire Safe Council, the California Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks), and DWR. The project is funded by CAL FIRE California Climate Investments Forest Health Program grants. This effort is part of DWR’s Fuel Load Management Plan, which is dedicated to reducing wildfire risk, enhancing public safety, and improving forest health around Lake Oroville. Trail users should use caution in active work areas and follow all posted signage.  

Vegetation management remains a top priority for DWR and its partners, including CAL FIRE, the Butte County Fire Department, the Butte County Sheriff’s Office, the CA Conservation Corps (CCC), CA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), State Parks, local tribes, and the Butte County Fire Safe Council.  

The caution advisory for Lake Oroville’s Middle Fork has been lifted with the dissipation of an algal bloom. DWR first issued the caution advisory on Friday, July 3 after a bloom was observed by staff. Samples collected for laboratory analysis did not detect toxins within the bloom.  

Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) is a natural component of ecosystems. Under certain conditions, including warmer temperatures and increased nutrient loads, algae can grow rapidly causing “blooms.” Algal blooms sometimes produce toxins that can be harmful to people and animals. 

What are signs of harmful algal blooms? 

• Small blue-green, green, white, or brown particles in the water 
• Streaks in the water that look like spilled paint 
• Mats, scum, or foam at the surface or along the shoreline 
• Can have an odor described as gasoline, septic, or fishy 

DWR’s environmental scientists routinely monitor for blue-green algae and their toxins within the Oroville-Thermalito Complex. Monitoring occurs during the summer months with water samples taken at various locations regularly, which are sent to a lab for toxin analysis. If elevated levels of cyanobacteria toxins are found while testing, DWR staff will work with California’s Regional Water Quality Control Board and recreation area managers to notify the public and post advisory signs at affected waterbodies. To learn more about HABs, or to report a HAB visit the Water Board’s website.