The Forestry department has expressed concern about the apparent destruction of the forests plantation within the Fancy area.
The department says goats are allowed to run loose within the restricted forest boundaries for extended periods, causing considerable damage to trees and destroying the integrity of the forest and its environment.
According to a statement from the Forestry department, the situation has resulted in a high degree of soil compaction and the destruction of the lower canopy vegetation.
The department has also voiced concern that the activity could affect the water quality at the main water catchment at Fancy.
Against this backdrop, officials have issued a deadline of the end of June for farmers to have their animals removed from the affected areas.
They say failure to do so could result in the animals being impounded until the associated fees are paid.
