Describe the Issue or Situation.    

According to the 2022 Census of Agriculture Carter County has over 1,200 head of sheep and goats.    Sheep and goat producers are always invited to attend our Northeast Area Livestock Association meetings, however, there was a need for specialized information for those small ruminant producers.   The Carter County ANR Agent has offered at least two small ruminant specific programs per year over the past two years.   

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).  & Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

Predator Control & Guard Animal Workshop (April 2023) – Held in Carter County as a partnership with Elliott & Lewis Counties and the Southeast Kentucky Sheep Producers Association – The United Trappers of KY provided a trapping and snaring demonstration for 37 participants at a local farm.   The afternoon classroom session included presentations on nuisance wildlife laws and guard animal care & management from a UK Extension Specialist, Morehead State University (MSU) professor, and the Office of the State Veterinarian.   Tarter Equipment also had a variety of handling facilities on display.  

Hoof Trimming Workshop (October 2023) – Held in Elliott County as a partnership with Carter County.    Both ANR Agents worked together to secure a grant from the KY Sheep and Goat Development Office (KSGDO) to provide a free pair of hoof trimmers to each family that attended the workshop.   In addition to a hoof trimming demonstration on a tilt table by the MSU Agriculture Department Chair the 45 participants also heard information on hoof anatomy and care from a local veterinarian.   

Small Ruminant Quality Assurance Training (January & March 2024) – Five participants attended one of the two training sessions that are provided by the KSGDO.  Trainings were held in Carter County.  Additional Carter County farmers have completed this certification online.  

Farm & Family Field Day (September 2024) - One of the farm tour stops during the annual field day included a small ruminant herd health show and tell discussion with a retired MSU veterinarian.   Over 70 participants learned about dewormers, vaccinations and castration.   

East KY Hay Contest (Fall 2023 & 2024) – Eight small ruminant farmers have participated in the EKHC so they can receive a free nutrient analysis of the hay they are providing to their sheep or goats.    

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

These small ruminant programs have empowered local producers by providing essential knowledge, skills, and resources to support the sustainable growth and profitability of small ruminant operations. Through comprehensive education, hands-on training, and technical assistance, we have helped producers improve animal health and welfare and optimize production practices.  As a result, our programs have contributed to increased farm income.  Specific examples are below:

• From a follow-up survey after the predator control workshop:
  • 16% reported implementing a wildlife control practice since attending the workshop.
  • 16% reported successfully trapping predators using the techniques learned at the workshop.
  • 83% learned what nuisance wildlife laws apply to their operation.
  • 33% improved facilities for small ruminants on their farm.
  • 33% added guard animals to their operation.
  • 33% tried lamb for the first time at the workshop.
• From surveys at the conclusion of the hoof trimming workshop:
  • 92% were more familiar with hoof anatomy.
  • 100% were more confident in identifying hoof problems.
  • 96% were better able to use hoof trimming equipment.
  • 92% were confident in keeping their hoof trimming equipment sanitized.  
  • 82% felt more confident in preventing hoof problems.  
• The average SRQA post test score for all participants was 91%.
• Two farmers asked for additional information on fecal egg count testing through the UK veterinary diagnostic lab after it was discussed during the Farm & Family Field Day.