West KY Small Ruminant Field Day Report

Chadwick Sheep Company

May 2, 2023

From forages to feet! The West KY Small Ruminant Field Day, hosted by the Marshall, McCracken, Graves and Calloway County Extension Agriculture Agents and sponsored by the Sheep And Goat Development Check-off, was a jam packed afternoon teeming with opportunities for producers to learn. Participants were enthralled with the on farm speeches and demonstrations relating to profitable small ruminant production. There were three sessions which included a speech on feed and reproduction efficiencies, a hands-on pasture walk, as well as a live hoof trimming demonstration.

Firstly, Extension Agent and farm host, Matt Chadwick, discussed feed, marketing and reproduction efficiencies with participants. Matt knows first hand how crucial it is to increase efficiencies in order to increase productivity, time management and profitability. Matt discussed his feeding practices, animal nutrition, how he controls his ewe's estrous cycles in order to minimize his lambing window, his marketing plan and much more! 100% of surveyed participants indicated that they will adopt Extension recommended practices in animal nutrition after listening to his speech.

The pasture walk lead by Murray State Agronomy Professor, Dr. Megan Taylor, was an interactive lesson in weed science. Dr. Taylor pulled weeds from the pastures, passed them through the group, taught participants how to identify them, and then discussed situational management options for each weed. She also discussed pasture renovation and then fielded many questions from producers relating to the pasture issues they are fighting in their own fields.

The live hoof trimming demo, lead by Agent, Miranda Rudolph, was a hit! Participants were in awe as Miranda utilized the farm's "spin doctor chute" to safety flip the sheep on their sides for ease of handling. As Miranda demonstrated how to trim hooves safely, she described proper hoof care, foot baths, disease concerns, prevention and more! Participants followed along on their pre-loaded clipboards which were packed with handouts provided by the KY Sheep and Goat Development Office. One family commented on how helpful the handouts were and how they will use them as reminders when working their animals. 100% of surveyed participants indicated increasing the skills necessary to maintain proper hoof care after watching the demonstration!

Producers departed the field day with full hands and minds. Each participant received a free hoof trimming kit. The kits consisted of a carrying caddy, hoof trimming shears, a sharpener, a pre-measured zinc sulfate foot bath and the printed resources previously mentioned. The kits included everything a producer needs to improve their herds foot health. After the program, 100% of surveyed participants indicated that they gained knowledge relating to small ruminant production! The host agent team looks forward to seeing how the farmers utilize this newfound knowledge in their operations.