News

Preparing small ruminants for kidding and lambing

Published on November 25, 2025
With kidding and lambing season right around the corner, owners should prepare their animals to get the best outcome.
Protecting animal health by strengthening farm biosecurity

Published on November 24, 2025
Healthy farms mean healthy communities. MSU Extension’s new resources and training make it easier for you to take simple steps that protect animals and keep Michigan agriculture strong.
Seven Michigan counties qualify for Livestock Forage Disaster payments

Published on November 21, 2025
The Livestock Forage Disaster Program provides compensation to eligible livestock producers who have dealt with loss of forage due to drought.
Understanding how to prevent and treat Polioencephalomalacia (PEM) in sheep and goats

Published on November 20, 2025
Polioencephalomalacia or "polio" is a common nutritional disorder in sheep and goats. Cases can be successfully treated if detected early in the disease course, making recognition of early symptoms a critical issue for sheep and goat producers.
The benefits of shearing before lambing

Published on November 20, 2025
Shearing before lambing allows for better lamb survival and flock productivity while improving fleece quality. Following these simple guidelines will improve both the welfare of your flock and your bottom line.
Preparing rams for a successful breeding season

Published on November 20, 2025
Ram fertility is critical to breeding success, and one poor season can have a devastating effect on lambing and beyond. However, these risks can be minimized with straightforward, proactive management prior to the breeding season.
MSU Extension launches new beginning farmer resource at Great Lakes Expo

Published on November 13, 2025
The Beginning Farmer Resource and Decision-Making Guide is a new jointly created resource from MSU Extension and USDA.
Improving parasite management with annual crops

Published on November 10, 2025
The health and productivity of sheep and goats grazing perennial pastures are often limited by forage quality and gastrointestinal nematode infection. Grazing annual forages can improve forage quality and lower exposure to parasites.
Overeating disease in sheep: Making sense of vaccination schedules

Published on November 10, 2025
Protecting against overeating disease requires timely vaccination and knowledge of risk. Lambs during the preweaning phase require passive immunity protection via vaccination of their dams during late pregnancy.
The essentials of feeding market lambs

Published on November 10, 2025
From pasture to confinement, lamb feeding strategies should be tailored to your market goals. These strategies maximize growth efficiency and minimize waste, increasing the profitability and quality of the lamb product.