Production Resources
SRPS- Small Ruminant Profit School
Sheep and goat numbers are booming in Kentucky! To help producers get off on the right hoof, the Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office is offering SRPS. This online course gives new producers knowledge on a wide range of topics that are vital to the success of all goat and sheep operations. You receive lifetime access to the course as long as you are a KGPA/KSWPA member.
SRQA- Small Ruminant Quality Assurance
The KY SRQA Program (Small Ruminant Quality Assurance) is a 1.5 hour certification program that helps producers understand:
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The goals of Quality Assurance
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Proper equipment needed
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How to read a medicine label
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How to read medicated feed tags
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Veterinary Feed Directives
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Prescription use of injectable, oral and water soluble antibiotics
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Antibiotic stewardship
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Record keeping
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Biosecurity issues
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Scrapie tag information
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Animal welfare issues
Small Ruminant Master Classes- Just released!
As you progress in your small ruminant operation, you will want to learn more in depth information in areas that can be improved and enhanced in order to become more efficient and profitable.
The Small Ruminant Master classes are designed for producers who have been in operation more than 5 years and are ready to hone in on their skills. Classes are offered individually or as a combo, and give lifetime access as long as you are a KGPA/KSWPA member.
Courses include:
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KY Small Ruminant Grazing School
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KY Master Small Ruminant Nutrition
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KY Master Small Ruminant Genetics
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Basics of Small Ruminant Parasite Management
KY Wool School- Just released!
This multi-course digital series of workshops will help wool producers to expand
their knowledge and use of value added wool products from their farms. It will
work both as a stand alone course or in addition to SPRS. Students will learn basic
husbandry specific to wool breeds to processing and marketing techniques and
strategies. Downloadable worksheets will be available for each course as well as
many bonus features such as multi-use printable guides and helpful links to further
their learning in fiber. This course is a great addition to SRPS.
Kentucky Sheep and Goat Management Calendar
The KY Sheep and Goat Management Calendar is a great tool to help producers stay on track each month. With helpful production tips, due dates for each day of the year, listing of events, common illnesses/treatments and moon signs, you should be able to keep track of all your important farm dates.
Solar Grazing
Solar developments are popping up all over Kentucky. These developments may offer sheep producers an opportunity to expansion. We have provided some basic information regarding solar grazing gathered from a Solar 101 Workshop offered in 2022. One of the goals of this page is to provide a listing of producers interested in solar grazing so, be sure to add your name to our form.
Breeder Directory
Looking for sheep or goats to add to your operation or have breeding stock available? The Breeder Directory is the place to start. This Directory provides the names, type of operations and breeds for hundreds of farms. Breeder Listings are a great opportunity to market your farm's genetics. All KSWPA and KGPA members receive a Standard Listing on the directory. But producers can ramp up their marketing efforts through a Gold or Platinum Listing. The Breeder Directory is a great marketing tool as it is seen by over 7,000 people per year!
Check-Off
The Kentucky Sheep and Goat Check-Off Program began in 2010 and collects $.50 for every $100 worth of sheep and goats sold in the Commonwealth. According to Kentucky law, Check-Off funds must be used for the purpose of promoting the increased use and sale of sheep and goats. Check-Off programs include the New Farmer Loan and Special Projects Grants, as well as numerous product promotion events and resources.
Small Ruminant Veterinarians
Having a trustworthy and reputable veterinarian is a must. Check vets that are recommended by producers.
