Released July 12, 2011
EAST LANSING, Mich. – Managing internal parasites is a major hurdle for both sheep and goat producers. To update producers on the latest strategies to keep these pests in check, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension is offering a one-day management session at three locations in Michigan.
All Integrated Parasite Management Program for Sheep and Goat Producers workshops run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and take place at the following locations:
July 23 – Monsanto Research Barn, 474 S. Onondaga Road, Mason, Mich.
July 30 – Vienna Twp. Hall, 2734 M-32, Atlanta, Mich.
August 20 – Olive Township Hall, 6480 136th Ave., Holland, Mich.
The program will include both classroom instruction and hands-on, on-farm activities and training. Dr. Richard Ehrhardt, MSU small ruminant specialist, and Mike Metzger, MSU Extension small ruminant educator, will instruct, assisted by other MSU Extension staff members.
Workshop topics are parasite biology, grazing management interventions, infection monitoring principles and techniques, fecal egg count demonstration and practice, strategic treatment strategies, evaluating treatment efficacy and a discussion on the perceived existence of chemical-resistant parasites.
Attendees will also receive instruction on FAMACHA principles and training. FAMACHA is a method of monitoring animals for parasite infection by checking the color of the inner eyelids and comparing it to a defined color chart. The color of the inner eyelid serves as an indicator of blood loss typically due to infection by a parasite called the "barber pole" worm (Haemonchus contortus), which is named for its red and white stripes that resemble a barber’s pole. FAMACHA screening allows for selective treatment for barber pole infection.
The registration fee of $30 per person ($10 for extra person from same farm, business or organization) includes proceedings and a FAMACHA certification card. Lunch is provided. The courtesy of a preregistration is requested to ensure that enough meals are ordered.
Registration can be completed with credit/debit card online at http://bit.ly/SheepGoatIPM.
For additional information or to manually register for the program, contact Carla McLachlan by phone at 517-432-5402 or mclachl2@msu.edu. You may also submit your name, address, telephone number and/or e-mail address, along with payment, to: Michigan State University, Attn. Carla McLachlan, 1290 Anthony Hall, East Lansing, MI 48824.
MSU Extension organizes and supports the Integrated Parasite Management Program for Sheep and Goat Producers workshop.
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Michigan State University, http://www.anrcom.msu.edu/anrcom/news/item/msu_extension_to_offer_3_full...
