Meat Goat Cohort Will Provide Learning Opportunities for Iowa and Wisconsin Producers

Aug 20, 2024

By Carolyn Ihde

Meat goat producers in Iowa and Wisconsin can improve their knowledge of the industry by attending Meat Goat Cohort 25, which will launch in October.

This multi-session program is intended to increase producer knowledge of how to analyze production systems and implement strategies that improve efficiency and productivity, while providing a supportive environment for networking and collaboration.

Topics will include biosecurity protocols, diseases and vaccinations, kidding preparation, nutrition requirements and testing, marketing, parasite management and on-farm field trips.

The program is being organized by Carolyn Ihde, small ruminant field specialist for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

“This program offers a unique opportunity to meet in person and via Zoom,” said Ihde. “This journey will not only inspire and excite meat goat producers, but it will also lead to significant personal growth and learning.”

Early-registration is encouraged to help program organizers determine the best program for the cohort. Speakers and topics will be determined by those who register. Register by completing the Google form at https://go.wisc.edu/ext-mgc25.

Source : iastate.edu

Video: You Be The Judge: Evaluating 8 Breeding Rams!

It's time for some honest feedback here at Ewetopia Farms! Today, we’re showing you all eight rams we used for breeding this year. Instead of just presenting them, we thought it would be fun to create a “Ram Report Card” — where we point out both their strengths and areas for improvement.

But here’s the twist: you be the judge! In the comments, let us know what you like about each ram and what you think could be improved. No ram is ever perfect, but every one of them brings something valuable to the flock. By sharing perspectives, we all learn more about what to look for in good breeding stock.

At Ewetopia Farms, we raise registered Suffolk and Polled Dorset sheep, focusing on high-quality genetics, structure, and friendly temperaments. Evaluating breeding rams is part of the bigger picture of building stronger flocks — and we’re excited to share the process with you.

If you enjoy seeing how we evaluate our animals, follow along by subscribing to our channel. We share daily insights into the joys and challenges of sheep farming here in Canada.