Small Ruminant Workshops

State wide the number of haired sheep producers has been steadily increasing with katahdin being the predominant breed. Many of these producers are new to small ruminants/sheep. In the region of Breckinridge County many of these new farms were searching for knowledge and expertise. The Kentucky State University county agent contacted state specialist Jerusha Lay.

The first of a series of workshops was scheduled and held at the extension office in Breckinridge County. 12 producers were in attendance, mostly women, for the first workshop, entitled Sheep and Goats 101. Following the workshops 5 farm visits were done to give personalized recommendations. 

After talking with producers and identifying areas of management that more information via a focus group. The second workshop was on basic hoof care and diseases of hooves in small ruminants. After the presentation, a hands on demonstration on hoof trimming was conducted at the Breckinridge fair grounds. Follow up farm visits were conducted as well. 

The 3^rd workshop on fecal examinations and parasites in small ruminants is to be held in august 2019. Fact sheets and educational resources are also currently being developed.

With the assistance of Joni Nelson, many of the producers in the region have applied and/or been awarded the Small Scale Farms Grant. This has offered them additional funding for production related materials to overall improve the economic stability of their farms.

These workshops and associated educational materials have and will continue to improve animal health throughout the region. Keeping animals healthy is vital to a farm or operation to be successful and profitable which increases the sustainability of these farms.