Small Ruminant Research in W.Va.

April 28, 2006 -- Earlier this month, the U. S. Department of Agriculture?s Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Appalachian Farming Systems Research Center in Beaver, W.Va., held a planning workshop on small ruminant research. In attendance were sheep and goat producers, several university experts from eight states as well as other ARS scientists from across the country. Joe Aucremanne, an officer of the West Virginia Shepherds Federation and director for the American Sheep Industry Association, represented the sheep industry.

The workshop was designed to provide input and recommendations to ARS on future research plans for this ARS laboratory, as well as collaboration opportunities with other labs. Participants addressed the need for research to benefit the sheep and goat industries by providing information on selection for gastrointestinal parasite resistance, forage nutrition, the efficient use of woodland pasture, reproductive management and product quality.

?We appreciate the opportunity to talk with ARS and provide input for the research priorities at this center,? commented Aucremanne.

Staff contact: Paul Rodgers, 303-771-3500