By Kelley YatesExecutive Director

Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office

•Changes in Industry

• Kentucky is growing while US numbers have declined

• NASS reports 49,000 head of sheep in Kentucky. Up 6,000 head in just one year!

• NASS reports 72,000 head of goats in Kentucky. Up 3,000 head since 2013.

• In all since 2007, sheep have increased 105% and goats by 436%

Changes in Industry, cont’doVarying market prices are starting to level off, with goats holding

consistent and sheep prices increasing• Lots of animals in marketplace but quality very low

• Low quality results in a $50-60/cwt discount• Loss due to death has doubled

Why?• Weather

• Parasite Control• Foot Care

• Lack of detection• Lack of resources regarding true management

requirements

Small Ruminant Profit School (SRPS)• Collaboration between:

• Beginning producers• Four class course over 6 months

Benefits of SRPS

• Personal mentors• Resource materials• GHIP Program• Membership to KGPA or KSWPA• HoofPrint Magazine• KY Sheep & Goat Management

Calendar• American Sheep Industry Membership• Sheep Industry News subscription• Email blasts

Topics Covered

• Industry Overview• Market Overview• Types of Operations• Facilities and Equipment• Production Systems• Nutrition• Reproduction• Record Keeping

•Foot Management•Parasite Management•Health Management

Projected Outcomes

• Areas of improvement• Enhanced record keeping• Improved genetics• Improved overall herd health• Improved profits

What Do Producers Need to Know?• 4 course class over 6 months

• October 4, 2014• October 25, 2014 (Annual Producer Conference)• December 6, 2014• March 14, 2015

• Hardin, Trimble, Warren and Montgomery Counties• Cost

• $70 for current KGPA and KSWPA members• $100 for non current members• Both registration fees include the payment for the Annual Producer

Conference• Registration is done through www.kysheepandgoat.org

Questions?