Street Goat

Street Goat is a community initiative based in Bristol, England that began in 2016. The project focuses on goat grazing in currently underutilized urban spaces, with the aim of providing access to milk, fiber and meat to community members involved in the care and maintenance of the goats. The initiative operates with a flexible, informal structure with no formal registration, allowing for rapid decision making and adaptability. The project consists of about four to five grazing areas around Bristol, housing between 30 and 40 goats. It attracts a diverse group of volunteers, including both young people seeking access to high quality food and retirees with more time to spare. Participants benefit from affordable access to healthy food, fostering a sense of food sovereignty and connection to the animals they care for. Street Goat emphasizes the importance of understanding the food production process, offering educational opportunities about animal husbandry and the realities of food sourcing. The initiative also addresses mental health benefits through interaction with the goats, creating a unique community space that fosters wellness.