The Mammoth Cave Area Agriculture Agents noticed an increase in small ruminant producers and the production of small ruminants growing in popularity.  It is also noted that many new small ruminant producers may very well be new to agriculture production and farming in general. The need to bring research based education to new small ruminant producers is further driven by the tendency for new producers to utilize the internet as their sole resource for gaining information.  

The Small Ruminant Digital Short Course was designed to bring short educational videos directly into the homes of small ruminant producers. By utilizing the Zoom platform, producers could be provided the information they desperately need while remaining COVID safe in their homes.

A progressive, experienced, and Extension friendly producer was secured and plans were developed for the program.  Small Ruminant Extension Specialist Dr. Ken Andries, Kentucky State University, and Dr. Beth Johnson, Kentucky Department of Agriculture Veterinarian, presented the information using the facilities and animals of the Rafter W Farm in Edmonton, KY. The presenters were also active participants in the Zoom meeting, and were available to answer question directly.  A total of three sessions were developed covering multiple areas of small ruminant production.  Agriculture agents from across the Mammoth Cave Area were responsible for all aspects of the program from production to advertising to evaluation.

The average nightly attendance was 49 with producers representing 4 states.   According to the evaluations, 100% of participants plan to make some changes in the management of their herd or flock.  98% of respondents said they would use Extension programs on small ruminants in the future.  These respondents also provided suggestions for future short course segments.  The segments have now been archived and will be able to be used by producers in the future.  One particular participant comment, “I have really like these classes.   Wished something like that had been available 16 years ago when I first started with goats.”