Small ruminant webinar series: considerations for breeding

Thursday, Oct 17, 2024 · 7 pm–8:20 pm

Zoom

Sheep and goat production is an excellent choice for small and beginning farmers looking to start a livestock enterprise. This webinar series provides aspiring, early career farmers and experienced farmers with the knowledge and skills to be successful and profitable in this industry. Speakers are diverse and from across the United States.

This online seminar series will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month between June and December 2024. Registered attendees will receive a Zoom link.

For more information, contact Jessica Harris at 804-524-5964 or jharris@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

hair sheep field day

Thursday, Oct 12, 2024 · 8:30 am–1:30 pm

VSU Randolph Farm, 4415 River Rd, Petersburg, VA

Hair sheep are an excellent choice for small and sustainable farms, especially in the mid-Atlantic US. These hardy animals thrive in pasture-based systems, resist parasites and heat stress, are exceptional mothers, and can be bred year-round. One of the biggest advantages? Hair sheep don’t require shearing, making them increasingly popular among farmers.

 Event Highlights:

• Learn about VSU’s hair sheep breeds

• Tour our Sheep Unit facilities

• Explore forage-based production systems and accelerated mating

• Participate in hands-on training for vaccinations, hoof trimming, and body condition scoring

• Understand antimicrobial resistance & more 

Cost: $15. Lunch included. Limited to 60 people.

For more information, contact Dr. Dahlia O'Brien at 804-524-6963 or dobrien@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Small ruminant webinar series: health and antibiotic resistance q&a

Thursday, Sept 19, 2024 · 7 pm–8:20 pm

Zoom

Sheep and goat production is an excellent choice for small and beginning farmers looking to start a livestock enterprise. This webinar series provides aspiring, early career farmers and experienced farmers with the knowledge and skills to be successful and profitable in this industry. Speakers are diverse and from across the United States.

This online seminar series will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month between June and December 2024. Registered attendees will receive a Zoom link.

For more information, contact Jessica Harris at 804-524-5964 or jharris@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

A Taste of Randolph Farm - VSU College of AGriculture Field Day

Thursday, August 29, 2024 · Registration Begins at 7:30 AM

VSU Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA

This year's theme is "A Taste of Randolph Farm." Discover the rich offerings of the VSU College of Agriculture through:

• Diverse and innovative programs in food, agriculture, natural resources, family, youth, nutrition, and community engagement

• Opportunities to meet faculty, researchers, students, Extension specialists, and community members, including small farmers and industry partners

• Hands-on activities and the chance to taste Randolph Farm's produce and meats prepared by culinary experts

• The VSU Trojan Farmer's Market, where you can shop tasty, healthy, local produce and farm products

FARM TOUR STOPS—

• High-Tech Ag - Drones: Mr. Tim Sexton

• USDA Agencies & Virginia Agencies:

  • Farm Service Agency (FSA)

  • Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

  • Risk Management Agency (RMA)

  • Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS)

  • Food and Nutrition Service (FNS)

  • Farm Credit of the Virginias

  • Virginia Department of Social Services

  • Virginia Farm Bureau

  • VA Department of Conservation and Recreation

  • University of Arkansas - RMA Navigator Program

• Food Safety & Packaging: Dr. Chyer Kim and Dr. Toktam Taghavi

• Nocturnal Animals; Stone Garden: Dr. Trakela Wright-Hicks, Ms. Bernadette Darrow, and Ms. Sheree Press

• Aquafarm: Mr. James Hill

• Taste of Randolph Farm: Sample tilapia, catfish, and trout prepared by Chef Reese & Chef Rose (HM students), and lamb by Jessica Queen & Chef Bobby Maddox from Belmont Butchery

• Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) - Aquaponics: Mr. Josh Dusci

• Integrated Pest Management (IPM) - Pollinator Health: Dr. Zelalem Mersha

• Edible Flowers & Herbs: Dr. Theresa Nartea & Mrs. Robeson

• High-Tech High Tunnel: Ms. Grace Summers

• COA Departments & Clubs:

  • Department of Agriculture

  • Department of Family Consumer Science

  • Department of Hospitality Management

  • Horticulture Club, MANRRS, Pre-Vet Club

• Ginger & Garlic: Dr. Sanjun Gu

• High Tunnel Hemp: Dr. Ramesh Dhakal

• Soil & Water Quality: Dr. Leonard Githinji

• Recycling of Crop Residue: Dr. Adnan Yousuf

• Power Proteins:

  • Edamame: Dr. Guo-Liang Jiang

  • Faba Beans: Dr. Shahram Torabian

  • Black Beans, Kidney Beans, Great Northern Beans, Pinto Beans, and Navy Beans: Dr. Harbans Bhardwaj

• Small Ruminants: Live animals, Parasite Laboratory, Mobile Processing Unit, and Germplasm Laboratory led by Dr. Dahlia O'Brien & Dr. Stephan Wildeus, Ms. Davida Rimm-Kauffman & Ms. Mackenzie Robertson

• Healthy Animals: Dr. Eunice Ndegwa

• Fruits of Discovery - Canticuber: Dr. Shuxin Ren and Dr. Leah Hamilton

• Deer Fencing: Ms. Amanda Seow

• Switchgrass Energy: Dr. Maru Kering

• Heritage Cattle: Dr. Neal Brown, Mr. Berry Harris & Mr. Isaiah Embry

VSU TROJAN FARMER’S MARKET:

Shop tasty, healthy, local produce, and value-added farm products from these vendors:

• Sycamore Springs Farm (Visit Website)

• Crystal's Catering & Sweet Treats (Visit Facebook)

• Petersburg Oasis Youth Farm (Visit Facebook)

• Truth Village Farms (Read More)

• Browntown Farms (Visit Website)

• MiMi's Kitchen (Cooper Family Farms)

• Don Sebastian Salsa (Visit Website)

• Kate’s Sweet Bakes (Visit Website)

• Crunch On! Snacks

• Chocoberry

• Agriberry (Visit Website)

• JavaBean, LLC (Visit Website)

• Hungershop (Visit Website)

Join us for a family-friendly event that showcases the best of Randolph Farm and the VSU College of Agriculture.

For more information, contact Carrie Bolton at 804-524-5836 or cebolton@vsu.edu; or Jessica Harris at 804-524-5964 or jharris@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Carrie Bolton at cebolton@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-5836 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Small ruminant webinar series: enterprise budgets

Thursday, August 15, 2024 · 7 pm–8:15 pm

Zoom

Sheep and goat production is an excellent choice for small and beginning farmers looking to start a livestock enterprise. This webinar series provides aspiring, early career farmers and experienced farmers with the knowledge and skills to be successful and profitable in this industry. Speakers are diverse and from across the United States.

This online seminar series will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month between June and December 2024. Registered attendees will receive a Zoom link.

For more information, contact Jessica Harris at 804-524-5964 or jharris@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Small ruminant webinar series: recordkeeping & profitability

Thursday, July 18, 2024 · 7 pm–8:15 pm

Zoom

Sheep and goat production is an excellent choice for small and beginning farmers looking to start a livestock enterprise. This webinar series provides aspiring, early career farmers and experienced farmers with the knowledge and skills to be successful and profitable in this industry. Speakers are diverse and from across the United States.

This online seminar series will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month between June and December 2024. Registered attendees will receive a Zoom link.

For more information, contact Jessica Harris at 804-524-5964 or jharris@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Small ruminant webinar series: pesky worms

Thursday, June 20, 2024 · 7 pm–8:15 pm

Zoom

Sheep and goat production is an excellent choice for small and beginning farmers looking to start a livestock enterprise. This webinar series provides aspiring, early career farmers and experienced farmers with the knowledge and skills to be successful and profitable in this industry. Speakers are diverse and from across the United States.

This online seminar series will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month between June and December 2024. Registered attendees will receive a Zoom link.

For more information, contact Jessica Harris at 804-524-5964 or jharris@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Small ruminant mobile processing unit online q&a

Monday, November 20, 2023 · 12pm–1 pm

Zoom meeting

Virginia State University designed and built a mobile slaughter and processing unit in 2019 to enhance local marketing opportunities, profitability and sustainability for small ruminant farmers in Virginia

We will discuss the trajectory of the MPU program and lay goals for the future. Learning from past experiences, the MPU program will look a bit different than before. We will answer questions from the public about the new trajectory, as well as ask better understand community need of the MPU to maximize impact.

For more information, contact Jessica Harris at 804-524-5964 or jharris@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Pasture Lambing Workshop

Friday, July 28, 2023 · 9 am– 4 pm

VSU Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA 23803

 $25 per person; Includes lunch and workshop materials 

Hair sheep have been a growing segment of the U.S. sheep and small ruminant industry. They are well suited for sustainable, pasture-based production and are a good fit for novice producers. 

Over the past 20 years, Virginia State University has been managing and conducting research with a hair sheep flock of different breeds. The animals are managed in a low-input, easy-care production system that includes lambing on pasture at different times of the year (April, December and July). 

The day-long workshop introduces sheep producers to pasture lambing and provides hands-on exposure to activities associated with lambing. The research flock at VSU consists of 70 Barbados Blackbelly and St. Croix ewes. Peak lambing activity is projected for the day of the workshop.

Workshop presenters include Mackenzie Robertson, Sheep Unit Intern, Dr. Dahlia O‛Brien, Small Ruminant Extension Specialist and Dr. Stephan Wildeus, Research Professor - Small Ruminants. 

$25 per person; Limited to 12 registrants to allow adequate hands-on exposure for participants.

 If you have any questions, please contact Mackenzie Robertson at mrob5952@students.vsu.edu 

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Ruminant Program office at jbrown@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

VSU College of Agriculture Field Day

Thursday, September 1 • 8:30 AM–12:30 PM

Virginia State University’s Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA, 23803

This free event will showcase the many ways VSU’s agricultural researchers, Extension specialists and professors support Virginia’s agriculture and forestry industries, the commonwealth’s number one private economic driver, with an annual economic impact of more than $91 billion.

Hop on and off trollies as they circle throughout Randolph Farm’s 416 acres and learn from the commonwealth’s leading experts about the latest techniques, trends, research and success stories impacting small-scale, limited-resource farmers and ranchers.

See first-hand how VSU’s research, teaching and public programming is enhancing the resiliency of Virginia’s food systems and addressing food safety and insecurity, especially among those who have limited social and economic resources.

Learn how you, your family, your business and your community can benefit from the food and agri-science programs at VSU.

EXPLORE

• Mobile Sheep & Goat Processing Unit

• Pond Aquaculture

• Hydroponic and Aquaponic Grow Systems

• High Tunnel Production

• Livestock Grazing Demonstration

• Industrial Hemp

• Sheep & Goat Production

• And More

For more information, contact Jessica Harris at (804) 524-5964 or jbrown@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-5964 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.

Mobile Processing Unit Certification Program - Winter/Spring Course 2022

Recurring Saturday Sessions, February 2 - February 23, 2022 • 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

VSU’s small ruminant program has designed and built a mobile processing unit as a resource to the state’s sheep and goat producers. To be able to utilize this resource, producers/clientele will need to complete a 5-module certification program. Only certified users will be able to process their sheep and goats on the MPU. Modules will include MPU design and usage, sheep and goat harvesting and carcass fabrication, regulations (state and federal), marketing your products and hands-on training on operating the MPU and all steps that should be taken to ensure everything is running and functional before processing, during processing, carcass cooling/hanging and fabrication.

4 MODULES ONLINE 6PM - 9PM:

• February 2

• February 9

• February 16

• February 23

*1 HANDS-ON MODULE 9AM - 3PM:

• March 4-5

• March 18-19

• April 1-2

• April 15-16

*Two days required onsite - Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road

A Certificate of Competence would be awarded upon completion of assignment(s), passage of quiz and butchering and fabrication skills.

$100 PROGRAM FEE

For more information, contact Tina Cabrera at (804) 524-6971 or tcabrera@vsu.edu.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) will follow all current CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this program. Additionally, all VCE employees and members of the public attending a VCE public program are required to: 1) wear a face shield or mask over their nose and mouth, 2) stay a minimum of six feet away from others, 3) wash or disinfect their hands frequently, and 4) stay home if they or anyone close to them have experienced any COVID-19 symptoms any time two weeks prior to the program or if they have been knowingly exposed to someone with COVID-19 two weeks prior to the program.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please call (804) 524-6971 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Mobile Processing Unit Certification Program

Recurring Saturday Sessions, August 28 - September 25, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

VSU’s small ruminant program has designed and built a mobile processing unit as a resource to the state’s sheep and goat producers. To be able to utilize this resource, producers/clientele will need to complete a 5-module certification program. Only certified users will be able to process their sheep and goats on the MPU. Modules will include MPU design and usage, sheep and goat harvesting and carcass fabrication, regulations (state and federal), marketing your products and hands-on training on operating the MPU and all steps that should be taken to ensure everything is running and functional before processing, during processing, carcass cooling/hanging and fabrication.

4 MODULES ONLINE 9AM - 12PM:

• August 28

• September 11

• September 18

• September 25

*1 HANDS-ON MODULE 9AM - 3PM:

• October 9-10

• November 6-7

• December 4-5

*Two days required onsite - Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road

A Certificate of Competence would be awarded upon completion of assignment(s), passage of quiz and butchering and fabrication skills.

$100 PROGRAM FEE

For more information, contact Tina Cabrera at (804) 524-6971 or tcabrera@vsu.edu.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) will follow all current CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this program. Additionally, all VCE employees and members of the public attending a VCE public program are required to: 1) wear a face shield or mask over their nose and mouth, 2) stay a minimum of six feet away from others, 3) wash or disinfect their hands frequently, and 4) stay home if they or anyone close to them have experienced any COVID-19 symptoms any time two weeks prior to the program or if they have been knowingly exposed to someone with COVID-19 two weeks prior to the program.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please call (804) 524-6971 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Mobile Processing Unit Certification Program

Recurring Saturday Sessions, August 28 - September 25, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

VSU’s small ruminant program has designed and built a mobile processing unit as a resource to the state’s sheep and goat producers. To be able to utilize this resource, producers/clientele will need to complete a 5-module certification program. Only certified users will be able to process their sheep and goats on the MPU. Modules will include MPU design and usage, sheep and goat harvesting and carcass fabrication, regulations (state and federal), marketing your products and hands-on training on operating the MPU and all steps that should be taken to ensure everything is running and functional before processing, during processing, carcass cooling/hanging and fabrication.

4 MODULES ONLINE 9AM - 12PM:

• August 28

• September 11

• September 18

• September 25

*1 HANDS-ON MODULE 9AM - 3PM:

• October 9-10

• November 6-7

• December 4-5

*Two days required onsite - Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road

A Certificate of Competence would be awarded upon completion of assignment(s), passage of quiz and butchering and fabrication skills.

$100 PROGRAM FEE

For more information, contact Tina Cabrera at (804) 524-6971 or tcabrera@vsu.edu.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) will follow all current CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this program. Additionally, all VCE employees and members of the public attending a VCE public program are required to: 1) wear a face shield or mask over their nose and mouth, 2) stay a minimum of six feet away from others, 3) wash or disinfect their hands frequently, and 4) stay home if they or anyone close to them have experienced any COVID-19 symptoms any time two weeks prior to the program or if they have been knowingly exposed to someone with COVID-19 two weeks prior to the program.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please call (804) 524-6971 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Mobile Processing Unit Certification Program

Recurring Saturday Sessions, August 28 - September 25, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

VSU’s small ruminant program has designed and built a mobile processing unit as a resource to the state’s sheep and goat producers. To be able to utilize this resource, producers/clientele will need to complete a 5-module certification program. Only certified users will be able to process their sheep and goats on the MPU. Modules will include MPU design and usage, sheep and goat harvesting and carcass fabrication, regulations (state and federal), marketing your products and hands-on training on operating the MPU and all steps that should be taken to ensure everything is running and functional before processing, during processing, carcass cooling/hanging and fabrication.

4 MODULES ONLINE 9AM - 12PM:

• August 28

• September 11

• September 18

• September 25

*1 HANDS-ON MODULE 9AM - 3PM:

• October 9-10

• November 6-7

• December 4-5

*Two days required onsite - Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road

A Certificate of Competence would be awarded upon completion of assignment(s), passage of quiz and butchering and fabrication skills.

$100 PROGRAM FEE

For more information, contact Tina Cabrera at (804) 524-6971 or tcabrera@vsu.edu.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) will follow all current CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this program. Additionally, all VCE employees and members of the public attending a VCE public program are required to: 1) wear a face shield or mask over their nose and mouth, 2) stay a minimum of six feet away from others, 3) wash or disinfect their hands frequently, and 4) stay home if they or anyone close to them have experienced any COVID-19 symptoms any time two weeks prior to the program or if they have been knowingly exposed to someone with COVID-19 two weeks prior to the program.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please call (804) 524-6971 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Mobile Processing Unit Certification Program

Recurring Saturday Sessions, August 28 - September 25, 2021 • 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Virtual Zoom Meeting

VSU’s small ruminant program has designed and built a mobile processing unit as a resource to the state’s sheep and goat producers. To be able to utilize this resource, producers/clientele will need to complete a 5-module certification program. Only certified users will be able to process their sheep and goats on the MPU. Modules will include MPU design and usage, sheep and goat harvesting and carcass fabrication, regulations (state and federal), marketing your products and hands-on training on operating the MPU and all steps that should be taken to ensure everything is running and functional before processing, during processing, carcass cooling/hanging and fabrication.

4 MODULES ONLINE 9AM - 12PM:

• August 28

• September 11

• September 18

• September 25

*1 HANDS-ON MODULE 9AM - 3PM:

• October 9-10

• November 6-7

• December 4-5

*Two days required onsite - Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road

A Certificate of Competence would be awarded upon completion of assignment(s), passage of quiz and butchering and fabrication skills.

$100 PROGRAM FEE

For more information, contact Tina Cabrera at (804) 524-6971 or tcabrera@vsu.edu.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) will follow all current CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this program. Additionally, all VCE employees and members of the public attending a VCE public program are required to: 1) wear a face shield or mask over their nose and mouth, 2) stay a minimum of six feet away from others, 3) wash or disinfect their hands frequently, and 4) stay home if they or anyone close to them have experienced any COVID-19 symptoms any time two weeks prior to the program or if they have been knowingly exposed to someone with COVID-19 two weeks prior to the program.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please call (804) 524-6971 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

VSU Hair Sheep Field Day

This event has been rescheduled. Please check the events calendar for the new date.

Join us as VSU's hair sheep production team discuss and demonstrate their forage-based, year-round lamb production system in Virginia and mid-Atlantic states. The program will cover accelerated mating, year-round grazing, lamb management and parasite control strategies. The Field Day will also include tours of VSU's mobile processing unit and our hair sheep facilities.

Presenters:

• Dahlia O'Brien Professor / Small Ruminant Extension Specialist (VSU)

• Stephan Wildeus Research Professor (VSU)

• Gabriel Pent Superintendent, Virginia Tech’s Shenandoah Valley Agricultural Research and Extension Center

• Francois Castonquay Professor Animal Science, Laval University

SPACE IS LIMITED TO 100 PARTICIPANTS

For more information, contact Tina Cabrera at (804) 524-6971 or tcabrera@vsu.edu.

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT ATTENDING THIS PROGRAM DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) will follow all current CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 during this program. Additionally, all VCE employees and members of the public attending a VCE public program are required to: 1) wear a face shield or mask over their nose and mouth, 2) stay a minimum of six feet away from others, 3) wash or disinfect their hands frequently, and 4) stay home if they or anyone close to them have experienced any COVID-19 symptoms any time two weeks prior to the program or if they have been knowingly exposed to someone with COVID-19 two weeks prior to the program.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

VSU College of Agriculture Field Day

Friday, July 30, 2021 • 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM

VSU Randolph Farm, 4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA 23803

Join us for an educational field day at VSU Randolph Farm. Learn about...

• Goat & Sheep Management

• Vegetable & Berry Production

• Plant Disease Prevention

• Hydroponic, Aquaponic & High Tunnel Crop Production

• Cattle Grazing

For more information, contact Tina Cabrera at (804) 524-6971 or tcabrera@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Grass, Goats, and…Uninvited Guests!

Thursday, June 11 • 10AM

Zoom Meeting

Grass, Goats, and…Uninvited Guests! is a new STEAM (science, technology, engineering,
agriculture, & math) curriculum focusing on small ruminant internal parasites, diagnostics, and
treatment. This innovative, hands-on program uses goat or sheep stuffed animal models, group learning, and edible treats to teach the FAMACHA© system and hematocrit determination to diagnose anemia, dag scoring, body condition scoring, fecal worm egg counts, and treatment for worms. Dr. Dahlia O'Brien, Virginia State University's Small Ruminant Specialist will cover the science behind these concepts. Dr. Chantel Wilson, VSU's 4-H STEAM Extension Specialist will provide an overview and best practices for educators to use the curriculum and pique youth interest in STEAM.

Presenters:

Dr. Chantel Wilson, Assistant Professor and 4-H STEAM Extension Specialist, Virginia State University

Dr. Dahlia O'Brien, Professor and Small Ruminant Specialist, Virginia State University

Small Ruminant On-Line FAMACHA Certificate Program

Thursday, April 9 • 9AM-11AM

You are invited to a Zoom meeting.

Petersburg, VA 23806

Despite opportunities for success in sheep and goat production, parasite control and anthelmintic resistance are major problems faced by producers. In order to help producers address the challenges of internal parasites on the farm, the American Consortium for Small Ruminant Parasite Control (ACSRPC; www.acsrcp.org) was formed. The objective has been to develop research-based options to make up a toolbox of practices for controlling internal parasites on farms. This workshop emphasizes the use of multiple techniques, such as pasture management and strategic deworming, for the effective control of internal parasites. This is important to assist producers in prolonging the efficacy of chemical dewormers on their farms.

Presented by

Dr. Dahlia O’Brien, Small Ruminant Specialist, Virginia State University
Dr. Niki Whitley, Small Ruminant Specialist, Fort Valley State University

Register in advance for this meeting

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

For more information, contact the Small Ruminants Program office at mjklingman@vsu.edu.

All WORMS, ALL DAY

December 7, 2019 • 9:30AM - 3:30PM

Lincoln Memorial University CVM Teaching Center

203 DeBusk Farm Drive, Ewing, VA 24248

$50 per adult, $30 ages 14-18

Veterinarians: This conference is approved for 5 continuing education (CE) credits.

The all-day conference will focus exclusively on gastrointestinal parasites, which are problematic on most small ruminant farms. The program will seek to educate stakeholders on the most up-to-date methods and recommendations for controlling parasites. It will include general sessions and a separate program for older youth. All youth registrants MUST be accompanied by a registered adult.

All speakers in the adult program are members of the American Consortium for Small Ruminant Parasite Control (ACSRPC). They include Dr. Dahlia O’Brien, Virginia State University; Dr. Kwame Matthews, Delaware State University; Dr. Nelson Escobar, University of Maryland Eastern Shore; Susan Schoenian, University of Maryland; and Dr. Niki Whitley, Fort Valley State University. Youth instructor will be Chantel Wilson (4H-STEAM Specialist).

The program is a collaborative effort among Virginia, Maryland and Delaware Cooperative Extension. Collaborators also include Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine Faculty members (Drs. Gilbert Patterson, Gerry Roberson, and Philippa Gibbons). The 2019 Conference organizers include Dahlia O’Brien and Amy Fannon with VCE.

Agenda

Lodging Information

Holiday Inn

https://www.ihg.com/holidayinnexpress/hotels/us/en/middlesboro/kymid/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=GoogleMaps-_-EX-_-US-_-KYMID

Sleep Inn and Suites

https://www.choicehotels.com/kentucky/middlesboro/sleep-inn-hotels/ky217?source=gyxt

For more information, contact Mark Klingman at (804) 524-5493 or mjklingman@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Mark Klingman (804) 524-5493 /TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Dairy Goat Field Day and Parasite Workshop

OCTOBER 4, 2019
9AM-4PM

Bees Knees Farm
3747 Custis Millpond Rd
West Point, VA

REDUCED FEE: $25 registration includes lunch and FAMACHA© card.
Space is limited to 20 registered participants.

VSU Small Farm Outreach Program will host this full-day workshop for farmers who are currently operating or considering a dairy goat operation.

During the morning session of this workshop, Dr. Sarah Williams, owner of Bees Knees Farm, will discuss dairy goat breed considerations, demonstrate how to milk dairy goats, trim hooves, and manage goats using rotational grazing practices.  She will also demonstrate and discuss use of meat bucks for hybrid offspring with improved carcass weights, and offer information on producing and marketing dairy and meat value-added products.

In the afternoon, Dr. Dahlia O’Brien, VSU Small Ruminant Specialist, will provide training and hands-on instruction on sustainable parasite control methods including the use of FAMACHA© scores and the Five Point Check© (5·√ ©) system.

For more information, contact Small Farm Outreach Program Agent Tracy Porter at (804) 481-2566 / tporter@vsu.edu  or call the Small Farm Outreach Program office at (804) 524-3292.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office (smallfarm@vsu.edu) or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Pasture Lambing Workshop

Friday, April 12, 2019 • 9AM - 4PM

VSU Randolph Farm Pavilion

4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA

$15 per person, includes lunch and workshop materials. Limited to 15 registrants to allow adequate hands-on exposure for participants. 

Hair sheep have been a growing segment of the U.S. sheep and small ruminant industry. They are well suited for sustainable, pasture-based production and are a good fit for novice producers.

Over the past 15 years Virginia State University has been managing and conducting research with a hair sheep flock of different breeds. The animals are managed in a low input, easy-care production system that includes lambing on pasture at different times of the year (April, December and July).

The day-long workshop introduces sheep producers to pasture lambing, and provides hands-on exposure to activities associated with lambing. The research flock at VSU consists of 100 Barbados Blackbelly and St. Croix ewes. Peak lambing activity is projected for the day of the workshop.

The workshop will be conducted by Dr. Dahlia O’Brien, Small Ruminant Extension Specialist and Dr. Stephan Wildeus, Research Professor - Small Ruminants

For more information, contact the VSU Small Ruminants Program office at 804) 524-5960.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Mollie Klein (mklein@vsu.edu) or call (804) 524-5960 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Pasture Lambing Workshop

Thursday, March 28, 2019 • 9AM - 4PM

VSU Randolph Farm Pavilion

4415 River Road, Petersburg, VA

$15 per person, includes lunch and workshop materials. Limited to 15 registrants to allow adequate hands-on exposure for participants. 

Hair sheep have been a growing segment of the U.S. sheep and small ruminant industry. They are well suited for sustainable, pasture-based production and are a good fit for novice producers.

Over the past 15 years Virginia State University has been managing and conducting research with a hair sheep flock of different breeds. The animals are managed in a low input, easy-care production system that includes lambing on pasture at different times of the year (April, December and July).

The day-long workshop introduces sheep producers to pasture lambing, and provides hands-on exposure to activities associated with lambing. The research flock at VSU consists of 100 Barbados Blackbelly and St. Croix ewes. Peak lambing activity is projected for the day of the workshop.

The workshop will be conducted by Dr. Dahlia O’Brien, Small Ruminant Extension Specialist and Dr. Stephan Wildeus, Research Professor - Small Ruminants

For more information, contact the VSU Small Ruminants Program office at 804) 524-5960.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact Mollie Klein (mklein@vsu.edu) or call (804) 524-5960 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

Small Ruminant Field Day

SEPTEMBER 21, 2018
9AM - 3PM

VSU Randolph Farm
4415 River Road • Petersburg, VA

REGISTRATION: $10 per person includes lunch.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: 
Dr. Niki Whitley, animal science Extension specialist, Fort Valley State University, Georgia

Dr. Whitley has worked with goats and sheep for 20 years at the University of Missouri, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and North Carolina A&T State University. She earned her Ph.D. in animal physiology from Mississippi State University. 

ADDITIONAL PRESENTATIONS:

• Dr. Michelle Corley will discuss using stinging nettle for deworming.
• Dr. Eunice Ndegwa will discuss maintaining gut health in pre-weaned kids and lambs.
• Dr. O’Brien and Amanda Miller, VSU’s herd manager, will conduct hands-on sessions on vaccinations, proper drenching techniques, FAMACHA scoring, body condition scoring and maintaining hoof health.

Goat and lamb products will be available for sampling.

For information, contact the Small Ruminant Program office at (804) 524-5960 or email mklein@vsu.edu.

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Ruminant Program office at mklein@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-5960 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.

DECEMBER 13, 2017

9am – 3 pm

Curdsville Community Center

122 School Road, Dillwyn, VA 23936

REGISTER ONLINE: https://goo.gl/forms/Dwm3TL9Wiyo0ULEJ3

Space is Limited.

$10 per person* (Children 12 and under free with an accompanying adult.)

Payable to "DavidWise.com Insurance LLC" by check or cash upon arrival at the workshop.

*includes lunch, refreshments and workshop materials.

Sheep and goats can be raised to provide meat, milk, and fiber. They can also be raised for 4-H projects, clearing brush from an area or simply as pets.  If you are interested in raising sheep and goats for meat, this class covers all the basics you need to start your enterprise.   

A local producer and Virginia State University’s Extension Specialist and Researchers will review the basics of:

• Starting a farm business: insurance, tax, and legal considerations. 

• Everything you need to know to raise sheep and goats (breed selection, housing, supplies/equipment, fencing, feeding, marketing).

• Health of your sheep and goats.

• Reproduction (to include preparing for lambing and kidding).

• Hands-on activities including hoof trimming, body condition scoring, correct drenching techniques, lambing, etc.

For more information call the Small Ruminant Program office at (804) 524-5960 or email mklein@vsu.edu

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Ruminant Program office at (804) 524-5960 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.