Sheep producers in our region face significant losses due to predation from coyotes and dogs. To address the topic, the Letcher County Extension Office, in partnership with the Southeastern Kentucky Sheep Association, hosted a Sheep Predator Control workshop focused on practical strategies including trapping, guard animals, and vegetation management to reduce losses in local flocks. Twenty producers attended the program, gaining hands-on knowledge about selecting effective guard animals, using traps responsibly, and managing pastures to reduce predator habitat. Educational materials from the University of Kentucky and Kentucky State University were provided, ensuring producers had science-based resources to guide their efforts.

Participants enjoyed sheep burgers made from University of Kentucky sheep, allowing them to experience the benefits of locally raised lamb while learning strategies to protect their own flocks. As a result of this program, producers reported feeling more confident in implementing integrated predator control measures to improve lamb survival, reduce financial losses, and strengthen sheep production in southeastern Kentucky.