|
NEWS May 27, 2008 |
Contact: Cathy Kenny,
(408) 975-2561 Charlotte
Lewis, (415) 845-6747 |
Airport
Uses Sheep to Control Weeds
“Traditional technology” will clear navigational
equipment site
| Event: |
Mineta San Jose International Airport will use a flock of sheep to remove weeds and invasive vegetation near the north end of its runways during the week of May 26. |
| When: |
Approximately May 26 through mid-June (sheep and goats work flexible schedules) |
| Where: |
Navigational equipment site bounded by Highway 101, De La Cruz Blvd., and Central Expressway, north of the SJC airfield. |
| Who: |
Dorper sheep at the Airport. A mix of Boer, Kiko and Spanish goats for other San Jose sites. |
| Visual: |
Although there is no public access to the airport site, the sheep are visible from southbound De La Cruz between 101 and Central. The airport’s VOR (VHS omnidirectional radar) navigational system is in the middle of the site, providing a high-tech background to a traditional technology activity. |
| Background: |
Aggressive,
invasive weeds can be difficult to control with expensive mowing and
herbicides. Goats and sheep provide a sustainable alternative that
is effective in minimizing pollution, reducing energy use, and preventing
weeds in the future. Living Systems (www.livingsystemslandmanagement.com) will use the Airport’s VOR location as a staging area for goats and sheep over the next several weeks for grazing activity at Alum Rock Park, San Jose Municipal Water Zone 3 Reservoir, and public right-of-way along Running Springs Road near the intersection of San Felipe and Morning Glory Road in the Evergreen district of San Jose. Living
Systems provides grazing services for the City of San Jose and other
clients throughout California, offering comprehensive and secure
management of sensitive sites near roadways and in high-traffic
residential neighborhoods. |
-SJC-
1732 N. First Street, Suite 600, San José, CA 95112-4538 24 Hour Media Line: 408.501.7700