Small ruminants, including sheep and goats, have an important place in livestock production. They can produce meat, milk, other products, as well as being used for woody plant control, livestock shows and more.

The Small Ruminant Farmer could be considered an underserved audience. So much so, that the United States Department of Agriculture started the "Small Ruminant Farmer Initiative." Their purpose was to improve technical service and program participation in all USDA programs through improved outreach efforts to small ruminant farmers.  In order to meet this often undeserved audience, Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Agents from Marshall, Calloway and Livingston counties collaborated to offer the 2018 Small Ruminant Profitability School. This three part program took place at the Marshall County Extension Office in Benton KY. Guest speakers presented topics including marketing, health care and meat cutting.

Marketing- Tim Ferrell, Manager of the Marshall County Co-op and long time sheep and goat owner, reviewed the yearly fluctuations in the sheep and goat market and then presented strategies related to how a producer can mitigate their rick and use the market to their advantage. 

Health Care- Dr. Stone, DMV, gave an overview of sheep and goat health care and maintenance topics. Many producers asked Dr. Stone questions about problems on their own operations.

Meat Cutting Demonstration- Dr. Greg Rentfrow, University of Kentucky Meat Science Specialist, lead a demonstration on the final processing of a lamb carcasses, including some new unique cuts to help increase marketing opportunities for producers. Afterwards, many producers in attendance voiced consideration about attending future University of Kentucky meat processing schools. 

Attendance ranged from 11-19 participants per night. Farmers participating were diverse. Including youth, amish and female producers.

Numerous immediate outcomes from this program are apparent. Many producers took notes during the sessions to take back to their operations. This program also encouraged small ruminant producers who hadn't utilized the Marshall County Extension Office in the past to start doing so. Numerous producers contacted Nikki Bell, Marshall County Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, with questions concerning their operations for the first time. Nikki helped producers with forage plans, soil testing, feed rations and fertility plans.

The Agents involved in producing this program hope this will be the first of many efforts to reach undeserved farmer/producer operations in western Kentucky.