The big picture: Using animals to trim grass and clear vegetation is more biblical than new. But over the past two decades, targeted grazing has grown as a quieter, greener alternative to herbicides and machines.

• It's especially popular in wildfire-prone areas — an increasing concern in our region — as goats and sheep can clear thousands of pounds of dry, flammable vegetation a day and return it to the soil.

Zoom in: Virginia-based LambMowers.com services yards of all sizes in the DMV.

• Founder and chief shepherd Cory Suter keeps a flock of sheep and lambs that munch grass and invasive species starting at $195 for two hours.
• Suter touts the eco-benefits — droppings that help restore carbon and water retention in soil — but the social perks are just as fruitful.

What they're saying: "We create a lot of impromptu parties and help people meet their neighbors for the first time," Suter says.

• His flock also visits preschools, community groups and birthday parties eager to entertain kids while the sheep clear dandelions and do some side-mowing.

Good to know: There are limits.

• Goats and sheep can't eat English ivy — it's toxic — or graze yards recently treated with chemicals.

• In D.C., permits are required, so advance booking is a must (and Suter says the lambs are very in demand).

🐐 In the weeds? Browsing Green Goats — locally famous for clearing Congressional Cemetery — is a woman-owned venture that tackles tough, invasive species like poison ivy, kudzu and knotweed.

• But goat rentals aren't for everyone: The vegetation has to be right, and projects require at least a half acre. Prices start at $2,250 — or you can request a "goatstimate."

The bottom line: Targeted grazing may not be forever, but many homeowners don't go back.

• "We're trying to be an alternative to chemicals," Suter says. "We're not as perfect, but we're cuter and safer for kids and pets."