New shepherds will have an opportunity to learn about sheep production and nutrition during a clinic at North Dakota State University’s Hettinger Research Extension Center on Sept. 22.
“We are hosting an educational field day for individuals with new sheep flocks,” NDSU Extension Service sheep specialist Reid Redden says. “This program was designed to support the North Dakota Lamb and Wool Producers Association’s starter flock program; however, it is open to anyone interested in the basics of sheep production.
“Sheep are a good livestock enterprise for youth, families who have off-the-farm jobs or existing livestock enterprises seeking diversification,” Redden adds. “New sheep operations are attractive because individuals can start small and build as they go. Plus, sheep operations do not require large startup capital, large amounts of land, or expensive facilities and equipment. Within a few years, new shepherds can rapidly grow their flock and build a sustainable production system.”
The clinic, which is free of charge, will begin with registration at 9:30 a.m. The educational portion of the program starts at 10. Topics and presenter include:
* Sheep production overview - Redden
* Sheep nutrition - Chris Schauer, Hettinger Research Extension Center director and animal scientist
* Lambing barn management - Rick Schmidt, Oliver County Extension agent
* Sheep production budgeting - Lyle Warner, sheep producer and Bismarck State College economics lecturer. The clinic also will include an overview of shepherding equipment, a session on animal-handling techniques, tour of the Hettinger center’s sheep facilities, question-and-answer session and the starter flock recipient load-out.
A noon lunch will be available for purchase.
For more information or to register, contact Redden at [email protected] or (701) 231-5597.
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