NDSU Center to Hold New Shepherds Clinic
New shepherds will have an opportunity to learn about flock management during a clinic Sept. 19 at North Dakota State University's Hettinger Research Extension Center. The clinic begins at 10 a.m. Mountain time.
“Sheep are a good livestock enterprise for youth, families with off-the-farm jobs or existing livestock enterprises seeking diversification,” says Christopher Schauer, the center's director. “New sheep operations are attractive because individuals can start small and build as they go. Plus, sheep operations do not require large startup capital for land, or expansive facilities and equipment. Within a few years, new shepherds can expand their flock rapidly and build a sustainable production system.”
Topics that will be covered during the clinic are sheep production and nutrition, animal-handling techniques, shepherding equipment and lambing barn management. Participants also will tour the Hettinger center's sheep facilities.
Lunch will be provided.
The Hettinger center, NDSU Extension Service and North Dakota Lamb and Wool Producers Association are hosting the clinic.
Attending the clinic is free of charge, but those planning to attend should register by Sept. 11. For more information or to register, contact Schauer at (701) 567-4323 or christopher.schauer@ndsu.edu.
