Lambing School offers hands-on training for producers
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Sheep and goat producers at any level of expertise are invited to learn more about lambing and kidding procedures at the Purdue Lambing School, which takes place Feb. 6 at Purdue's Animal Sciences Research and Education Center Sheep Unit, located near the university's West Lafayette campus.
The program, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., will cover the crucial production stages of late gestation, lactation and care of newborn lambs. It also will include discussion on topics such as nutrition, health considerations and management practices.
"The workshop is designed for beginning producers to get some hands-on experience with lambing and lamb care," said Michael Neary, Purdue Extension small animal ruminant specialist and event coordinator. "It gives a good foundation for one of the most important management periods in the production cycle."
The Lambing School is designed as an interactive experience with informal questions and discussion. Neary said that several ewes will be lambing that day, so participants will be able to help with the process.
The program is sponsored by Purdue University's Department of Animal Sciences and the Indiana Sheep Breeders Association. Presenters include Todd Wolff, veterinarian for Round Grove Veterinary Services; Gerald Kelly, sheep unit manager; and Neary.
The Lambing School has been offered for 21 years, and Neary has seen participants benefit from the workshop.
"Producers have saved more lambs and weaned a higher percentage of those born alive," Neary said. "It also has value for goat producers."
Registration is $35 and includes refreshments, lunch and education materials. The deadline to register is Jan. 29, with a maximum enrollment of 40 people. The registration form and a map to the Sheep Unit is available online at https://ag.ansc.purdue.edu/sheep
For more information, contact Neary at 765-494-4849, mneary@purdue.edu
Writer: Elise Brown, 765-496-7481, brown222@purdue.edu
Source: Michael Neary, 765-494-4849, mneary@purdue.edu
Related Web site: Sheep @ Purdue: https://ag.ansc.purdue.edu/sheep
Ag Communications: (765) 494-8415;
Steve Leer, sleer@purdue.edu
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