CENTRAL FLORIDA SMALL RUMINANT PRODUCTION CONFERENCE

Bainum, C.1; Bosques, J.2; Justesen, B.3; Wilson,T.4; Mudge, D.5; Gamble, S.6; Rivera, F.7; Cooper, C.8; Jennings, E.9; Yarborough, J.K.10; Strickland, J.S.11; Bennett, L.12; Mussoline, W.13
1Livestock Extension Agent, University of Florida, Ocala, FL, 34470
2Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Wauchula, FL, 33873
3Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Kissimmee, FL, 34744
4Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, St. Augustine, `F, 32092
5Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Deland, FL, 32724
6Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Deland, FL, 32724
7Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Seffner, FL, 33584
8Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Lecanto, FL, 34461
9Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Bronson, FL, 32621
10Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Orlando, FL, 32812
11Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Kissimmee, FL, 34744
12Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Dade City, FL, 33525
13Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Palatka, FL, 32131

Abstract:

Small ruminant production is popular in Florida due to niche marketing opportunities for meat, fiber, and/or milk products. Small ruminants require proper management to be most productive and reduce the overall death loss across species attributed to non-predator causes such as environmental stress, dystocia, and internal parasites (USDA, 2015). Sheep and goats account for more than 35,000 head of animals in the top ten producing counties of Florida. Central Florida is home to the top sheep and goat producing counties, therefore the Central Florida Livestock Agents Group developed a Small Ruminant Production Program that has occurred annually since 2013. Topics have included parasite prevention and control through FAMACHA, marketing strategies and business models for small ruminant production, milking parlor practices, forage production, animal nutrition and health, as well as animal selection criteria. All programs have incorporated classroom lectures and hands-on demonstrations utilizing state and county faculty as well as local farm cooperators. A total of 251 people have participated in this program since 2013. When asked to evaluate management practices 100% of participants indicated they would change at least one practice such as routinely monitoring body condition scores of animals, forage testing and toxic weed control, invest in cool-season forages, strategic use of anthelmintic drugs, and selection of animals based on confirmation. As a result of the first two years of this program, FAMACHA trainings were implemented to properly educate small ruminant owners on anemia and its correlation to gastrointestinal parasites. 45% of survey respondents reported these trainings as the key strategy in their parasite control plan along with proper pasture management. This program has developed a state-wide reputation and will continue to be a mainstay event for the livestock agents of Central Florida.

All Accepted Posters