With changes in Kentucky agriculture over the past few years, there has been an increase in the number of farmers and rural residents who are raising sheep, goats, or both. Many others are considering entering small ruminant production. Due to the need for sound production and marketing information for our clientele, the ANR Agents of the W8 Extension area helped host the KY Sheep and Wool Producers Association Field Day.

The KYSWPA invited Extension to collaborate with them on their annual field day. This year it was held on June 3 at Winding Creek Farm in Monroe County. The agenda for the day included demonstrations of emergency vet care tips; working dogs in the field; and sheep handling facilities. A panel discussion covered options for marketing lambs in Kentucky. Extension agents provided wagons and trucks for a tour of the farm, tables and chairs, and advertising. A delicious lunch of barbecue lamb was provided to everyone.

Approximately 120 people attended the field day. The diverse audience consisted of seasoned and novice producers, and people who are exploring sheep as an enterprise. A common thread among the attendees was a desire for knowledge on sound production practices, herd health, and marketing. 

The field day was a fitting example of teamwork. Extension Agents from Allen, Barren, Hart, Metcalfe, and Monroe Counties pulled together to help conduct a successful event. Financial sponsors included CPC Commodities, Tarter USA, and Kalmbach Feeds. Farm Service Agency representatives discussed their resources with clientele.

Initial outcomes of the field day are an increase in knowledge in herd health, marketing options, and sheep handling facilities. Winding Creek Farm stated, “We want to help bring the sheep producers across Kentucky together to help strengthen the industry and make it more viable.” Folks had the opportunity to see it for themselves in a real-world setting, and that will help them more than anything with the decisions they make.