Brookings, S.D. – SDSU Extension, in collaboration with Nebraska Extension and K-State Research and Extension, will host a series of Diversifying with Small Ruminants workshops.
Adding small ruminants to an operation has both economic and ecological benefits. The program will address frequently asked questions and other considerations about integrating a small ruminant enterprise.
“There has been growing interest in adding sheep to an operation because it can improve pastures as well as cash flows,” said Jaelyn Quintana, SDSU Extension Sheep Field Specialist. “We are excited to begin a three-state program that can help producers get started raising sheep and gain knowledge from successful diversified operations.”
Topics covered at the workshops will include multispecies grazing, sheep production, nutrition and product marketing. Each event will end with an open discussion with local producers who have successfully managed diversified operations.
Speakers will include Jaelyn Quintana, SDSU Extension Sheep Field Specialist; Alison Crane, K-State Extension Small Ruminant Specialist; Randy Saner, Nebraska Extension Educator; and Lisa Surber, South Dakota Sheep Grower’s Association Executive Secretary.
The program schedule is as follows:
- June 7th 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in Salina, Kansas (Rolling Hills Zoo 625 N Hedville Rd, Salina, KS 67401)
- June 8th 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in O’Neill, Nebraska (Knights of Columbus Building, 408 W. Douglass St. O’Neill, NE 68763)
- June 9th 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. in Chamberlain, South Dakota (AmericInn, 1981 E King St, Chamberlain, SD 57325)
To register, visit the SDSU Extension events page. Registration closes June 1. Those interested in participating can receive discounted early bird registration at $25 per family/operation, if registered before May 25. After May 25, the cost to register will be $30 per family/operation. Lunch will be provided at each workshop.
For more information, contact Jaelyn Quintana, SDSU Extension Sheep Field Specialist, at Jaelyn.Quintana@sdstate.edu or (605) 394-1722.
