Goats will be spotted in yards across Austin this month as part of a Hormel Historic Home renovation fundraiser.

From Aug. 15-31, supporters of the expansion project can send a pair of live goats to the lawn of a friend, family member, neighbor or co-worker. Goat removal is a $50 donation. After one “goating,” the participant may choose which home the goats are sent to next.

Insurance is available to protect from repeat goating for a $40 donation.

The idea to use goats for the fundraiser, rather than the more common “flamingo flocking” method that uses plastic lawn ornaments, came from a Hormel Historic Home board member who saw a similar fundraising event in Okoboji, Iowa.

A volunteer with a farm offered to loan the goats that will be used.

Funds will go to the 7,000-square-foot expansion project. The $1.8 million construction is fully funded, but the Hormel Historic Home Capital Campaign team is continuing to raise funds for furnishings and interior finish work.

Laura Helle, director of the Hormel Historic Home, is pleased with how fundraising has gone so far.

“The response has been wonderful from the community,” she said.

The expansion will open Nov. 1 and people can now book the 200-seat banquet hall for late 2009 and 2010.

Contact the Hormel Historic Home office at 433-4243 or send an e-mail to hormelhh@smig.net to set up a goating. Donors may also mail gifts to the Hormel Historic Home at 208 Fourth Ave. N.W.

For more information or to make an online donation, visit www. hormelhistorichome.org.