on managing internal parasites in sheep, goats
EAST LANSING, Mich.
It’s no secret among sheep and goat producers that managing internal parasites is a major challenge, so Michigan State University (MSU) Extension is offering a one-day educational program focused on helping producers tackle this issue.
The workshop, Integrated Parasite Management Program for Sheep and Goat Producers, will be held on three dates at locations across the state: July 24 at the Sharon United Methodist Church (corner of Pleasant Lake Road and M-52), Manchester; July 31 at the Union City Fire Hall (123 Hammond St.), Union City and September 11 at the First Presbyterian Church of Beaverton (201 S. Ross St.), Beaverton. Each program takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The program will include both classroom instruction and hands-on, on-farm activities and training. Program instructors will be Dr. Richard Ehrhardt, MSU small ruminant specialist and Roberta Osborne, MSU Extension small ruminant educator. They will be assisted by other MSU Extension staff members.
Workshop topics will include: parasite biology, grazing management interventions, infection monitoring principles and techniques, fecal egg count demonstration and practice, strategic treatment strategies, evaluating treatment efficacy and a discussion on whether or not chemical-resistant parasite populations are real.
Attendees will also receive instruction on FAMACHA principles and training. FAMACHA is a method of monitoring animals for parasite infection by checking the color of the inner eyelids and comparing it to a defined color chart. The color of the inner eyelid serves as an indicator of blood loss typically due to infection by a parasite called the “barber pole” worm (Haemonchus contortus), which is named for its red and white stripes that resemble a barber’s pole. FAMACHA screening allows for selective treatment for barber pole infection.
The $30 per person ($10 for extra person from same farm, business or organization) includes lunch, proceedings and a FAMACHA certification card. The courtesy of a preregistration is requested to ensure that enough meals are ordered.
For additional information or to register for the program, contact Carla McLachlan by phone at 517-432-5402 or by e-mail at mclachl2@msu.edu. Those interested may also submit their name, address, telephone number and/or e-mail address, along with payment, to: Michigan State University, Attn. Carla McLachlan, 1290 Anthony Hall, East Lansing, MI 48824.
The Integrated Parasite Management Program for Sheep and Goat Producers workshop is organized and supported by MSU Extension.
