In an effort to make some of their operations a little greener, Blue Mountain Resort has hired some new animal recruits to help keep their lawns trim.
Woody and Lottie, the two goats hired last year from a local farmer, did such a great job grazing on the grass under the Woodlot that their new kids have joined the family business this year, bringing the total of goats grazing at Blue Mountain Resort to four.
And now, Blue Mountain wants the public’s help to name the new kids.
“They’re a good reminder of... finding new ways to do things and different ways to do things that are a little bit greener and a little bit innovative,” says Tara Lovell, public relations manager with Blue Mountain Resort.
“We have seen goat mowers in use at other properties... it was an inspiration of that... we also have some staff members who are passionate about being creative and being greener, and the resources we have in our local area as well,” she says.
Previously Blue Mountain had just used mowers to cut the grass, but last year the team came up with a creative and more green solution to the grass-cutting problem by employing nature’s lawnmowers.
“Every year, we’re still seeing what works. We’re still learning. If there’s an opportunity to extend it, then great,” says Lovell. “There’s also the morale. It just feels good... to have them here. They’ve become unofficial mascots,” laughs Lovell.
The goats retire in the winter to a local farm but are brought back in the spring, summer and fall months to fulfil their purpose. Two staff are trained to work with the goats and assist to train the goats on how to best tackle the grass in the Woodlot. The grass level of the Woodlot where the goats are is fenced and is not accessible to the public, however there is an obstacle course above the grassed area that is open to guests.
Lovell also pointed to other green initiatives undertaken by the resort, including just completing updating all its lighting to LEDs for use starting this winter for night skiing and making a transition away from plastic straws, which Lovell calls a “big endeavour.”. They also encourage smart energy consumption by being conscientious of which lights and energy sources are actually needed at any given time. Last week, the resort also held a community clean up day.
Blue Mountain Resort is accepting name suggestions for the baby goats starting this week on their Facebook page.
For more information on Blue Mountain Resort, click here.
