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UNIVERSITY PARK -- An upcoming Penn State Extension workshop is aimed at equipping sheep producers with skills in animal evaluation, biosecurity and culling.
"The ABCs of Shepherding: Assessment, Biosecurity and Culling" workshop will be May 3 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Penn State Beef and Sheep Center, 532 Orchard Rd., State College.
This hands-on workshop is aimed at sheep producers, goat producers, livestock veterinarians and veterinary technicians.
Through expert-led sessions and live demonstrations, participants will explore the ABCs of shepherding -- assessment, biosecurity and culling. They will learn how to evaluate animals using estimated breeding values, genetic traits and phenotypic data to improve long-term flock health and productivity.
Dr. Erin Luley, assistant state veterinarian, will cover common sheep diseases, diagnostic testing and biosecurity practices. During hands-on demonstrations, participants will learn proper sheep handling, facility management, and sorting animals based on health, genetics and performance.
Attendees can leave with practical knowledge and resources to enhance their farm's productivity, profitability and sustainability, organizers noted.
This workshop will help participants improve their proficiency in the following areas:
• Animal evaluation and selection: Assess phenotypic traits, analyze genetic and performance data, and participate in hands-on culling exercises using Penn State's flock records.
• Flock health and biosecurity: Identify disease risks, apply best practices for biosecurity and determine when to cull versus treat animals.
• Practical handling skills: Practice low-stress handling, flipping sheep and using sorting equipment for efficient flock management.
• Health and diagnostic techniques: Perform Faffa Malan Chart -- or FAMACHA -- scoring, collect blood samples for disease testing and practice drenching treatments with water. Participants will utilize the handling facility and equipment at the center to practice the blood collections and FAMACHA scoring.
• Facility and workflow management: Optimize barn layouts and handling systems to improve efficiency, reduce stress and enhance overall flock well-being.
Space is limited, so pre-registration is required.
The registration fee is $25, and the deadline to register is May 1 at 11:45 p.m.
More information is available on the Penn State Extension website at https://extension.psu.edu/the-abcs-of-shepherding-assessment-biosecurity-culling.