Virginia Tech Sheep Extension
Sheep in Virginia
Virginia’s sheep population of over 89,000 exists in all regions of the state. Our state’s abundant forage resources, moderate climate, and close proximity to markets make Virginia ideally suited for a vibrant, diverse sheep industry. Multiple management and production systems are employed in the state, with the majority of lambs born in the spring and raised in a forage-based environment. Commercial, spring-lambing flocks comprise the majority of the industry which is supported by a strong seedstock industry. Growing segments include sheep raised for youth 4-H projects as well as hair sheep.
Upcoming Events & New Information
Virginia State University is conducting an online survey about antimicrobial use and resistance in sheep and goat farming. Feedback from small ruminant producers is invaluable in helping us understand current practices, knowledge, and perceptions related to antimicrobial use.
All responses will remain confidential and secure. This survey should take approximately 20 minutes to complete, and your input will contribute to developing practical, sustainable solutions for improving animal health and combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Please click on the link to complete the survey: https://virginiatech.questionpro.com/SheepGoatProducerSurvey
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a significant threat to both animal and human health, particularly within animal agriculture. As a producer, your role in managing animal health is vital in combating the spread of AMR. This survey is part of a broader effort to understand the current practices, knowledge, and perceptions related to antimicrobial use in sheep and goats specifically.
The goal of this survey is to gather information from producers, owners and veterinarians on how antimicrobials are used and how AMR is understood and managed. Your responses will help inform solutions for improving the health and well-being of sheep and goats while reducing the risk of AMR in a manner that is both economical and sustainable for the future. Participation in this survey is entirely voluntary, and your responses will remain confidential. The data gathered from this survey will be strictly for improving the health and wellbeing of sheep and goats as well as public health through development of relevant educational content for addressing the problem of AMR in sheep and goat farming.. This survey was reviewed and approved by the Virginia Tech Institutional Review Board (IRB) under protocol Number: 22-264.
It will take you approximately 20 minutes to complete this survey.
Questions?
For any questions or concerns, please contact Eunice Ndegwa, Ph.D at endegwa@vsu.edu
Sheep Programs
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Shepherd's SymposiumThis annual program provides education on current topics and research of interest to sheep producers. The one-day event includes a blend of lecture and demonstration sessions. The Symposium is typically held in early January, and location is rotated across the state.
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Sheep 101 Basics WorkshopThis educational program is designed for new and beginning shepherds to provide hands-on experience and training in basic sheep production techniques. Topic areas include nutrition, health, genetics, reproduction, marketing, and management. Instruction includes opportunity for participants to work with sheep to learn necessary skills and attain experience. The Workshop will be held as a two-day event in October, as well as, annually in conjunction with the Shepherd’s Symposium.
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Virginia Ram Test ProgramThe Virginia Ram Test has existed at the Shenandoah Valley AREC since 1975. Ram lambs, consigned by the state’s producers, are developed and managed in a central location to provide objective information on economically important traits such as growth and carcass performance. The program concludes with an annual sale of rams the fourth Saturday in August.
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Southwest Agricultural Research and Extension Center Ram TestThe Virginia Tech Southwest AREC Ram Test began in 2012 and consists primarily of Katahdin sheep breeders from across the United States. This program is unique and created with much discussion and interest across the industry. Through the forage-based ram performance test, designed specifically to quantify growth and parasite resistance in rams. The program concludes with an annual field day and sale of the top ~50% of rams the fourth Friday in September.