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We hope you enjoy this abbreviated version of the

Frankenmuth News

Serving Frankenmuth Since 1906

Vol. 120 No. 01 In our 120th year!

Wednesday, July 9, 2025

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THE GOATS . . . are returning to the Cass River bank for two weeks to clean up vegetation. 

Goats are coming baaaack to clean up the Cass River banks

For the third consecutive summer, the goats are baaaack on the Cass River.

  The Star of the West Milling Company is excited to welcome back their “Goats on the Cass River.” The goats offer a unique and sustainable vegetation management opportunity. They will reside along the banks of the Cass River near downtown Frankenmuth from Sunday, July 13, to Sunday, July 27.

  The goats will graze 14 days mostly between the Frankenmuth Brewery, upriver past the Star of the West employee parking along East Tuscola Street. The herd is provided by Twin Willow Ranch of Milan, Michigan and will help naturally clear overgrown brush while offering a fun and educational experience for area residents and guests to town.

  To celebrate the return of these sure-footed animals, a Community Night will be held on Wednesday, July 16, from 6-8pm. The event will include a petting zoo provided by the Frankenmuth Patriots 4-H Club, free ice cream, goat-themed coloring pages and activities, and an opportunity to visit with the goats along the Cass River.

  “Growing up, I showed goats at the Huron County Fair through my 4-H club called Country Fun that was led by my Aunt Margie Phillips. It makes my heart happy to share these fun creatures with the Frankenmuth community. I love knowing we are making a difference with area residents, the sustainability of the riverbank, and the Maurer family who provides us them to us each year,” Star of the West Milling Company Sustainability Director Lisa Woodke said.

  Goats on the Cass not only helps maintain the riverbank naturally, but also highlights the value of agricultural education and environmental stewardship.

  Due to the steep incline of the riverbank as this junction, goats also make sense. Humans and equipment would have a very difficult time cleaning up this area each summer.

  The Community Night is free and open to the public. Area residents, families, and friends are encouraged to stop by, enjoy the festivities, and learn more about how agriculture and sustainability go hand in hand 

   To read this complete story and other featured articles in this week's Frankenmuth News, click on the "Subscribe" tab at the left or call (989-652-3246) to begin receiving your weekly copy of the Frankenmuth News.