Small ruminant programs in LaRue County have grown in popularity as interest in raising small ruminants has continued to increase. Many small farmers with 50 acres or less are finding that they can make a profit by raising sheep and/or goats. 75% of participants who attend local programs report that they are more profitable from what they learn at meetings. 100% report that they are better educated to provide more comfort and better care for their animals.

Many of the classes have involved multiple outside agencies and groups to help provide education. Dr. Jessie Lay and other representatives from Kentucky State University have presented great programs such as a hands-on parasitology course where we looked at parasites through microscopes. They also presented at an on-farm program to teach body condition scoring and deworming protocols. Other topics covered included lambing, marketing, grazing practices, and handling facilities. Seven participants received their Small Ruminant Quality Assurance training through this program which now enables them to potentially receive County Agriculture Investment Program grant money.