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Small Ruminant Monthly Newsletter

October 2023

Welcome to the Club!

Hello everyone I am excited to meet all of you! This is a new club that is getting started, it is open to everyone to join and you do not have to own small ruminants to be a part of it. All that we ask is that you have an interest in learning more about them. We ask that you please spread this news to your friends so that our new club can grow!


At the first meeting everyone suggested monthly newsletters covering helpful topics and what the current trends in the small ruminant industry are. In this newsletter some things that will be covered is the importance of coming up with an animal health plan.


If you have any questions please feel free to call the office and speak with the Livestock Agent, Skyler Murray or email me at skyler_murray@ncsu.edu.

Animal Health Plan

Once you have your pasture plan into place, you start to ask yourself what’s next? The next big thing for you to start planning is your animal health plan. This is something you can still plan before you purchase any animals. This will help give you a timeline to help you further down the road.


Your animal health plan should include regular check-ups for your animals, vaccinations, and preventative measures for common health concerns. It is important to establish a relationship with a veterinarian who can help guide you through this process. They can provide recommendations on specific vaccinations and preventative care measures based on the type of animals you plan to keep and the geographical location of your farm. Additionally, it is important to establish a record-keeping system for your animal health plan, so you can keep track of any treatments or medications given to your animals. By having a solid animal health plan in place, you can help ensure the long-term health and wellbeing of your animals, as well as the success of your farm.


It's also important to educate yourself on the signs of illness in animals, so you can quickly identify any potential health issues and seek veterinary care if necessary. Early intervention is key to preventing the spread of illness and ensuring the best possible outcome for your animals.


Another important aspect of your animal health plan is to have a plan in place in case of emergencies. This includes having a first aid kit for your animals, as well as a plan for evacuation in case of natural disasters or other emergencies. Consider having a designated area on your farm where animals can be safely housed during emergencies.


Remember to regularly review and update your animal health plan as needed. As your farm grows and changes, your plan may need to be adjusted to reflect new circumstances or changes in animal health recommendations. By prioritizing your animal health plan, you can ensure the long-term success and sustainability of your farm.

Importance of Soil Sampling

Time has passed by rather quickly this year, it's hard to believe it is already September. When temperatures finally start to cool down a bit it makes it easier on our livestock. It’s time to start thinking about pasture rejuvenation and management. The summer heat has definitely put a hurting on pastures and hay fields, therefore it is important to do soil tests and put out fertilizer accordingly. Before adding any lime or fertilizer this fall, I would highly recommend doing a soil sample, which is free from April 1st - November 30th. We have plenty of kits available here at the extension office for anyone who would be interested. I would be more than happy to come out and help you take your samples and go over the report with you when it comes back. It is important to get your soil tested so you know where you stand before you start applying fertilizer. Soil tests are great for showing you exactly what nutrients are needed to improve your land. This will help you put your money towards the nutrients that would be most beneficial for your plants. Applying nutrients that are not needed could lead to some plant toxicities. Over applying fertilizers could lead to excess runoff in the waterways and could lead to nutrient leaching, resulting in loss of money.

Soil Testing Kits

This article was written by an NC Cooperative Extension Employee. This is a well written article, that covers a variety of helpful topics from how and where do I need to take soil samples to how to interpret the report whenever you get it back.

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Pastureland Ecology Webinars

This website has recordings from the Pastureland Ecology Webinars that happened this past Spring. The webinars covered a great variety of topics and had some great information that I feel would be helpful to many of you.

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Sheep Care Guide

This PDF has great information covering a variety of topics for sheep care.

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Upcoming Opportunities

The 2024 WNC AgOptions grant cycle is now open! 

If you are intending on applying for this grant please talk to your county Livestock/Horticulture agent by OCTOBER 13th, 2023. There will be information sessions held in different counties in Western NC. I highly encourage you to attend one of these sessions. If you have any questions they can help you with the process as well. You can click the button below to learn more. 

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NC State University and N.C. A&T State University work in tandem, along with federal, state and local governments, to form a strategic partnership called N.C. Cooperative Extension.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

N.C. Cooperative Extension - McDowell County Center, 60 E Court St, Marion, NC 28752, United States
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