NCERA214: Increased Efficiency of Sheep Production

(Multistate Research Coordinating Committee and Information Exchange Group)

Status: Inactive/Terminating

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[10/12/2015] [08/02/2016] [02/03/2018] [03/26/2019] [09/06/2019]

Date of Annual Report: 10/12/2015

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 06/08/2015 - 06/09/2015
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2014 - 09/01/2015

Participants

Attached is an pdf file with a list of members and attendance to the 2015 meeting.

Participants Attachment:

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Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

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Accomplishments

Cornell University - New York The flock at Cornell University completed the final year of testing the STAR accelerated management system. Research in two areas was continued: 1) Maternal behavior of ewes at lambing time and 2) Control of internal parasites in sheep and goats. Dale Bumper Small Farms Research Center, USDA, ARS, Booneville, AR-Breeding strategies to aid organic small ruminant production. As lead for a multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary team funded by NIFA's Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative and the Small Business Innovation Research program, Booneville, Arkansas, scientists, along with Louisiana State University, Virginia Tech, Fort Valley State University, and the University of Arkansas, and cooperation from several farmers have developed selection tools to aid in the control of gastrointestinal nematodes for organic production, the greatest barrier to organic small ruminant production due to reduced weight gains and death. Research demonstrates that genetic selection for parasite resistance in sheep with heritability as high as 0.5 can eliminate most deworming, reduce mortality and morbidity, especially with good nutrition and pasture management. By selecting replacement stock from parasite resistant parents, determined by fecal egg counts around and after the time of lambing, fewer animals within the flocks required deworming. The team continues to search for genetic markers to eliminate the need to collect fecal samples. The research has resulted in published peer-reviewed articles, farmer friendly publications through the National Center for Appropriate Technology and the website of the American Consortium for Small Ruminant Parasite Control. Louisiana State University- Presented programs at the following: 1) Louisiana State University Small Ruminant Field Day, Parasite Recent Issues and Updates, April 26, 2014, Baton Rouge, LA; 2) Louisiana State University Small Ruminant Field Day, Integrating FAMACHA, drugs and other alternative measures for controlling worms, April 26, 2014, Baton Rouge, LA. 3) LSU AgCenter Extension Goat Producer Field Day, Integrating FAMACHA, drugs and other alternative measures for controlling worms, May 17, 2014, Amite, LA. 4) McNeese State University Animal Science faculty/students meeting, Integrating FAMACHA, drugs and other alternative measures for controlling worms, May 28, 2014, Baton Rouge, LA. 5) Small ruminant producer extension meeting, Updates and New Concepts with Regard to Small Ruminant Parasite Management, June 16, 2014, Gray, ME. 6) ASAS, Internal parasite resistance and control, July 23, 2014, Kansas City, MO. 7) GoatCamp, Integrating anthelmintics FAMACHA and other alternative measures for controlling nematodes in small ruminants, October 28, 2014, Lohn, TX. Michigan State University- Outreach accomplishments involved the presentation of programs with proceedings/manuals on birth management, parasite management and health management for small ruminants. Applied research efforts included projects to assess the use of annual forages to enhance whole farm forage utilization in sheep production systems, understanding nutrient requirements and optimizing diets of sheep during the transition between late pregnancy and early lactation, out of season breeding field studies, evaluation of local/regional lamb marketing efforts and the development and assessment of integrated parasite management plans. Courses were offered as a clinical clerkship to DVM students on small ruminant production medicine and to undergraduate students on sheep production. South Dakota State University -Our work with co-products, soyhulls, DDGS and pelleted corn stover has demonstrated these feed ingredients can lower unit cost of production, improve production efficiency and reduce labor requirements in sheep operations. Studies with pelleted corn stover inclusion into lamb and ewe diet formulations at SDSU have shown excellent palatability and performance. This ingredient has the potential to reduce traditional forage needs by 20% in intensive farm flock systems. State, national and international audiences recognize the accomplishments of SDSU Animal Science in formulating lamb and sheep diets with co-product ingredients. In 2014 the SDSU sheep extension staff published the “2014 South Dakota State University – Sheep Research Report. The report summarizes the scientific investigation, results and conclusions from 12 different studies at SDSU. Educational topics areas studied include nutrition, reproduction, health and management practices. The work reported on the use of coproduct feed ingredients (soyhulls, DDGS and corn stover) in lamb finishing and lactation diets has been widely accepted by the end-users in the sheep industry including national and international audiences. Studies conducted at SDSU on managing flock reproduction with the sheep CIDR served as a valuable resource for seedstock and commercial flocks implementing fall lambing systems. This report has been disseminated in print and electronically through the SD extension iGrow web based platform. With the successful development of the sheepSD new and beginner sheep producer mentorship program the SDSU sheep extension staff has provided an educational template for the sheep industry to meet several objectives of the “Let’s Grow” initiative. Dave Ollila, Sheep Extension Field Specialist is coordinating this effort from the SDSU West River Extension Center in Rapid City, SD. Texas A&M AgriLife Research -A study has been implemented to estimate performance differences between Dorper and Rambouillet ewes. Estimates of breed differences for fertility, number of lambs born, lamb birth weight, lamb weaning weight, and lamb carcass traits were documented from records on ewes from 2 to 9 years of age. Lamb market records are being analyzed to estimate the difference in value between Dorper and Rambouillet lambs. The main objective of this study is to evaluate lifetime lamb production from Dorper and Rambouillet ewes. University of Rhode Island- This research and outreach program continues to educate small ruminant producers in best management practices for parasite control and investigate more sustainable alternatives to chemical dewormers. University of Wisconsin-Madison- The sheep flock at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arlington Agricultural Research Station has reduced its incidence of Ovine Progressive Pneumonia (OPP) from 47% in 2012 to 5% in 2014 with the goal of eliminating OPP within the next few years. This has been done without the total culling of OPP positive ewes and without extensive artificial rearing of lambs, but instead by separation of OPP negative and OPP positive ewes into separate flocks and annual testing forOPP. Utah State University -Two graduate students were trained in the projects. An abstract was accepted to be presented at the Society of Animal Science Joint Annual Meeting. An abstract was presented at the Society for Range Management in 2015. An abstract will be presented at the Society for Range Management in 2016. A website is being developed on available tools to control medusahead. Virginia State University-Research is evaluating the use of terminal sire mating for lamb production from land race hair sheep breeds (St. Croix and Barbados Blackbelly) managed under accelerated mating in a foragebased system. Dorset rams are used to produce crossbred lambs. Reproductive performance of ewes in purebred and crossbred matings is compared, and the growth performance and carcass characteristics of purebred and crossbred lambs on pasture are evaluated. West Virginia University (WVU) -Ten (10) Educational programs and demonstrations programs on managing gastrointestinal parasitism in small ruminants were conducted at, WV extension winter dinner meetings, WV spring shepherd's symposium, Davis-Michael 4-H day, WV/VA purebred sheep breeders meeting, WVU Organic Farm Field Day, Highland County Sheep Meeting, WV Winter Shepherd's Symposium and FAMACHA training workshops • Fifteen (15) flocks were used for research and partial demonstrations and discussions with smaller numbers of guests included George and Lisa Wherry's in Washington County, PA; Marvin Warner's and James Dean's in Randolph County, WV; Conrad Gall's in Greene County, PA; and Rick Humphreys' in Marion County, WV. • Keith Inskeep conducted a webinar made available nationally on out-of-season breeding. The webinar was viewed by over 100 participants. He also made presentations at the Maryland Sheep and Wool festival on Use of CIDRs in Out-of- Season Breeding of Sheep and at Sheep Symposium, Western Section, American Society of Animal Science, Bozeman Montana • A Sheep management calendar was written, published and distributed to producers and made available on the WestVirginia Small Ruminant Project website. • Over 100 farm visits and method demonstrations were conducted

Publications

Publications Attachment:

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Impact Statements

Cornell University - New York: Data from the accelerated lambing flock at Cornell University provide guidance about opportunities to improve the management of highly productive sheep. Methods to account for nutritional effects of high fiber ingredients have been incorporated into a program to formulate diets for sheep and other ruminants.
Dale Bumper Small Farms Research Center, USDA, ARS, Booneville, AR: The development of gastrointestinal nematode resistant breeding stock at DBSFRC has allowed us to disseminate these genetics to farmers, providing breeding values generated by NSIP LambPlan. This has lead to Katahdin flocks that are more resistant to worms as evidenced by Katahdin EBV trends. In addition, work is continuing on disseminating genetics by developing a simple vaginal artificial insemination program so that semen can be shipped and used by farmers across the U.S. The development of Best Management Practices for use of copper oxide wire particles in small ruminants has led to several invited presentations by small ruminant groups who have run out of options to control barber pole worm in their animals.
Louisiana State University: Over 200 producers were in attendance at professional and producer meetings. Dissemination of research results led to use of technologies to better manage parasites, reduce animal losses, and increase profits. Knowledge gained by scientists.
Michigan State University: The MSU small ruminant program produced a formal impact assessment in 2014 which was published in the 2014 NCERA proceedings. In 2015, this program made advances in organizing a producer study group consisting primarily of young producers interested in commercial sheep farming along with experienced producers with similar goals. This group has been active in developing group projects and serves as a critical network to these producers to share new ideas on sheep production.
South Dakota State University: SDSU sheep extension faculty, Dr. Jeff Held and Mr. Dave Ollila co-hosted the educational programming for the 77th Annual South Dakota Sheep Growers Annual Convention held September 26 and 27th 2014 in Brookings, SD. The 2-d educational program included facilities tours, workshops, lamb and wool promotion and featured presentations by industry experts, university personnel plus ASI and ALB representatives. There were three primary convention segments with attendance ranging from 150 to 250 people. A key target audience to attend this convention was new and beginner producers to encourage their enrollment in sheepSD. More than 45 new and beginner producers participated in the convention program. It was particularity encouraging having many husband-wife teams attend the various sessions. Support for the 102 sheepSD program includes $20,000 grants awarded by the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) in FY12, FY13 and FY14.
Texas A&M AgriLife Research: Statement: Texas A&M AgriLife Research conducts range sheep production research to provide information to sheep producers. Knowledge of performance and value differences between Dorper and Rambouillet will provide producers with information needed to make an informed choice about which breed to raise. The Dorper breed is relatively new to the US and little comparative research with US breeds has been documented.
University of Rhode Island: ? Results continue to indicate potential for cranberry leaf PAC extract as an anthelmintic. Development of a cranberry leaf pellet for upcoming studies is ongoing. ? Preliminary results indicate that there are distinct differences in the in vitro anthelmintic efficacy and condensed tannin content of numerous accessions of birdsfoot trefoil powder. ? There has been overwhelmingly positive feedback on the two videos produced (Why and How To Do FAMACHA Scoring; Why and How To Do Sheep and Goat Fecal Egg Counts). .
University of Wisconsin-Madison: The University of Wisconsin-Madison Spooner Agricultural Research Station, as the site of the only dairy sheep research program in North America, continued to conduct studies in support of the small, but growing, dairy sheep industry. In 2014-2015, studies focused on investigation of different milking intervals for dairy ewes and showed that ewes could be milked less frequently than once per day with a savings in labor and no loss in milk production. The sheep flock at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arlington Agricultural Research Station has positively impacted the U.S. sheep industry through the successful marketing of purebred sheep with EBVs generated from the National Sheep Improvement Program. The flock has also demonstrated a program that can be used in private flocks to reduce the incidence of Ovine Progressive Pneumonia
Utah State University: Supplementation with tannin-containing legumes increases intake of endophyte-infected tall fescue and improves some physiological parameters related to fescue toxicity. The mechanism seems to be related to the binding capacity of condensed tannins from sainfoin which complex alkaloids from tall fescue and reduce their toxicity. Individual differences in medusahead intake by livestock represents a promising option for maximizing use of medusahead by livestock on rangelands. Constraints in particle size reduction and kinetics of fermentation explain the cyclic and declining pattern of medusahead intake by sheep, as well as the low palatability of the weed.
Virginia State University: St. Croix and Barbados Blackbelly are easy-care hair sheep breeds that perform well under a forage-based system with limited management inputs. Supplementing hair sheep on pasture with cost-effective agro by-product supplementation may improve marketable of hair sheep lambs. Supplementation of hair sheep lambs on medium quality pasture with soy hull significantly increased growth rate linearly, improved feed efficiency, and exceeded growth rate of corn supplemented lambs. Research is under way to evaluate the effect of soy hull supplementation on carcass characteristics.

Date of Annual Report: 08/02/2016

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 06/06/2016 - 06/08/2016
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2015 - 09/30/2016

Participants

Participants Attachment:

NCERA-214 Minutes 2016.pdf

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

NCERA-214 Minutes 2016.pdf

Accomplishments

Accomplishments Dale Bumper Small Farms Research Center, USDA, ARS, Booneville, AR Control of internal parasites in sheep. Alternatives to synthetic anthelmintics remain critical due to the prevalence of dewormer resistant parasites that cost farmers worldwide billions of dollars every year. Copper oxide wire particles (COWP) were determined to control barber pole worm, a worm that causes blood loss and death; recently two forms with different particle diameters appeared on the U.S. market for small ruminants to treat copper deficiency. Scientists at USDA, ARS in Booneville, AR, Louisiana State University, University of Arkansas, and Fort Valley State University determined that the smaller diameter particles reduced the percentage of barber pole worm better than the larger diameter, and reduced fecal egg counts in lambs, a sign of worm infection. There has been widespread interest by southeastern U.S. small ruminant producers and extension agents in the use of copper oxide for worm control, one of the few options remaining to sustain these industries. The results are important to organic and conventional farmers, poor resource farmers worldwide, extension specialists, and scientists with the aim of controlling barber pole worm in sheep and goats, which can save the industry lost income due to morbidity and mortality. Cornell University Data collection for experiments on use of copper oxide wire particle to control barber pole worm was completed. Data collection on the value of ivermectin in protocols to treat sheep and goats with signs of infection with deer worm was completed. Data collection and analysis was completed on an experiment to document the development of immunological response by sheep against deer worm.  University of Kentucky <ul> <li>Conducted 3 Eweprofit Schools. An average of 30 producers attended each school.  Developed materials for 3-ring binder for distribution to producers at Eweprofit I; materials added when producers returned for Eweprofits II and III.  If producers completed all three schools, they had a complete guide for annual ewe management.</li> <li>Conducted Lambing School (35 producers)</li> <li>Conducted Shearing School (12 students)</li> <li>Developed Second Small Ruminant Profit School with Kentucky State University, Kentucky Department of Agriculture, and Kentucky sheep and Wool development Council. <ul> <li>Taught 60% of material</li> <li>Developed 60% of notebook</li> </ul> </li> <li>Demonstrated the effect of supplementation (2% BW daily) of early-weaned White Dorper and Polypay lambs grazing alfalfa from June to October. <ul> <li>Polypay lambs gain faster than White Dorper</li> <li>Gain differences between Polypay and White Dorper lambs more pronounced when supplemented (2% BW daily) than when unsupplemented.</li> </ul> </li> </ul> Louisiana State University Presented programs at the following: 1) Sheep Production and diversification of small ruminants, FAMACHA certification. Southern University Goat Field Day, April 18, 2015, Baton Rouge, LA., 2) Potential new dewormer methods. What Works With Worms Congress, May 25-26, 2015, Pretoria, South Africa., 3) Does diatomaceous earth have a role in worm control? What Works With Worms Congress, May 25-26, 2015, Pretoria, South Africa., 4) Integrating anthelmintics FAMACHA and other alternative measures for controlling nematodes in small ruminants. Small ruminant producer meeting, June 11, 2015. Cobleskill, NY., 5) What small ruminant producers should know about internal parasites. Small ruminant producer meeting, June 16, 2015, Gray, ME., 6) Integrating anthelmintics FAMACHA and other alternative measures for controlling nematodes in small ruminants, GoatCamp, October 27, 2015, Lohn, TX., and 7) Integrating anthelmintics FAMACHA and other alternative measures for controlling nematodes in small ruminants, Southeastern Kiko Goat Association, November 13, 2015, Hattiesburg, MS. University of Rhode Island This research and outreach program continues to investigate sustainable alternatives to commercial dewormers and educate small ruminant producers in best management practices for parasite control. South Dakota State University Our work with co-products, soyhulls, DDGS and pelleted corn stover has demonstrated these feed ingredients can lower unit cost of production, improve production efficiency and reduce labor requirements in sheep operations. Studies with pelleted corn stover inclusion into lamb and ewe diet formulations at SDSU have shown excellent palatability and performance. This ingredient has the potential to reduce traditional forage needs by 20% in intensive farm flock systems. State, national and international audiences recognize the accomplishments of SDSU Animal Science in formulating lamb and sheep diets with co-product ingredients.  Recently the SDSU sheep extension staff published a SDSU – Sheep Research Report. The report summarizes the scientific investigation, results and conclusions from 12 different studies at SDSU. Educational topics areas studied include nutrition, reproduction, health and management practices. The work reported on the use of co-product feed ingredients (soyhulls, DDGS and corn stover) in lamb finishing and lactation diets has been widely accepted by the end-users in the sheep industry including national and international audiences. Studies conducted at SDSU on managing flock reproduction with the sheep CIDR served as a valuable resource for seedstock and commercial flocks implementing fall lambing systems. This report has been disseminated in print and electronically through the SD extension iGrow web based platform.  With the successful development of the sheepSD new and beginner sheep producer mentorship program the SDSU sheep extension staff has provided an educational template for the sheep industry to meet several objectives of the “Let’s Grow” initiative. Dave Ollila, Sheep Extension Field Specialist is coordinating this effort from the SDSU West River Extension Center in Rapid City, SD. Texas A&M AgriLife Research A study has been implemented to estimate performance differences between Dorper and Rambouillet ewes.  Estimates of breed differences for fertility, number of lambs born, lamb birth weight, lamb weaning weight, and lamb carcass traits were documented from records on ewes from 2 to 9 years of age.  The main objective of this study is to evaluate lifetime lamb production from Dorper and Rambouillet ewes. The annual Texas A&M Sheep & Goat field day was held in August 2015. The annual Texas A&M Ram Performance Test Field day was held in March 2016.  The Texas A&M Ram performance test website (<a href="http://sanangelo.tamu.edu/performance-tests/ram-performance-test/">http://sanangelo.tamu.edu/performance-tests/ram-performance-test/</a>) was updated with results from the 2015-2016 performance test. Utah State University  We tested the effects of increasingly diverse combinations of PSC-containing legumes on intake and diet digestibility in lambs. Freshly-cut birdsfoot trefoil (TRE), sainfoin (SAN) and alfalfa (ALF) at the early flowering stage were offered in ad libitum amounts to forty-two lambs in individual pens assigned to 7 treatments (n=6): Single species, a choice of all possible 2-way combinations, or a 3-way choice of the legumes. Composited forage and fecal samples and acid detergent lignin were used to determine in vivo DMD. The change in concentration of BUN from the beginning to the end of the study (24 d) (ΔBUN) was also assessed. Dry matter intake (DMI) and digestible DMI (DDMI) were analyzed as repeated measures design with lambs (random effect) nested within treatments. A complete random design was used for the remaining variables with treatment as a fixed factor. Lambs preferred ALF>SAN>TRE in 70:30 and 50:35:15 ratios for 2- and 3-way combinations, respectively (P < 0.05). Average DMI and DDMI were 10% greater for 2- and 3-way choices than for single species (Table 1). Digestibility values of tannin-containing legumes (SAN and TRE) and their combination were greater than those recorded for the saponin-containing legume (ALF) or ALF/TRE (Table 1). Feeding SAN in a single diet or in combination had lower ΔBUN and greater fecal N/N consumed ratio (Table 1) than ALF, TRE or ALF/TRE, suggesting a shift in the site of N excretion from urine to feces. In conclusion, combinations of PSC-containing legumes have the potential to enhance intake and digestibility while shifting N loses to feces relative to some legume monocultures. <table width="513"> <tbody> <tr> <td colspan="9" width="456"> Treatments </td> <td width="58"> CHOICE vs Single Diets </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="108"> Items </td> <td width="44"> ALF </td> <td width="54"> SAN </td> <td width="39"> TRE </td> <td width="44"> ALF SAN </td> <td width="44"> ALF/ TRE </td> <td width="44"> SAN/ TRE </td> <td width="44"> ALF/ SAN/ TRE </td> <td width="37"> SEM </td> <td width="58"> P-Value </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="108"> DM,% </td> <td width="44"> 19.7a </td> <td width="54"> 18.2ab </td> <td width="39"> 16.6b </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="37">  0.67 </td> <td width="58">   </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="108"> CP,% </td> <td width="44"> 16.5b </td> <td width="54"> 13.4c </td> <td width="39"> 19.3a </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="37">  0.42 </td> <td width="58">   </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="108"> ADF,% </td> <td width="44"> 31.1b </td> <td width="54"> 39.3a </td> <td width="39"> 31.6b </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="44">   </td> <td width="37"> 1.13 </td> <td width="58">   </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="108"> DMI, gr/KgBw/ d </td> <td width="44"> 35.9ab </td> <td width="54"> 32.4b </td> <td width="39"> 27.4c </td> <td width="44"> 37.8a </td> <td width="44"> 34.3ab </td> <td width="44"> 33.5ab </td> <td width="44"> 36.0ab </td> <td width="37"> 1.88 </td> <td width="58"> 0.0217 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="108"> DMD,% </td> <td width="44"> 59.3d </td> <td width="54"> 68.1a </td> <td width="39"> 65.7b </td> <td width="44"> 64.2b </td> <td width="44"> 61.6c </td> <td width="44"> 68.4a </td> <td width="44"> 64.6b </td> <td width="37"> 0.67 </td> <td width="58"> 0.5450 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="108"> DDMI, gr/KgBw/d </td> <td width="44"> 21.3b </td> <td width="54"> 22.1ab </td> <td width="39"> 18.0c </td> <td width="44"> 24.3a </td> <td width="44"> 21.0b </td> <td width="44"> 22.9ab </td> <td width="44"> 23.2ab </td> <td width="37"> 1.12 </td> <td width="58"> 0.0087 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="108"> Fecal N/N consumed ratio </td> <td width="44"> 0.33cb </td> <td width="54"> 0.38a </td> <td width="39"> 0.28d </td> <td width="44"> 0.35b </td> <td width="44"> 0.32c </td> <td width="44"> 0.35b </td> <td width="44"> 0.34cb </td> <td width="37"> 0.01 </td> <td width="58"> 0.3390 </td> </tr> <tr> <td width="108"> ΔBUN, mg/dL </td> <td width="44"> -1.0bc </td> <td width="54"> -4.2d </td> <td width="39"> 2.3a </td> <td width="44"> -1.7dc </td> <td width="44"> 1.7ab </td> <td width="44"> -0.3abc </td> <td width="44"> 0.0abc </td> <td width="37"> 1.18 </td> <td width="58"> 0.3457 </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Table 1. Means in a row with different superscripts differ (P < 0.1). Forty lambs (4 months old) were randomly assigned to two groups (n=20). The parasitized group (PG) was infected with 3,000 L3 stage larvae of Haemonchus contortus, and the other group (non-parasitized; NP) was not infected. Animals were submitted to preference tests by offering a free choice between sainfoin pellets with high (T+; 4%) or low (T-; 2%) concentration of condensed tannins during three periods of 4 days each:  Initial (Test 1), after the group PG developed an infection (Test 2), and after conditioning, when all animals consumed just T+ for 21 days so that parasitized animals experienced the benefits of therapeutic doses of condensed tannins (Test 3). Preference ([intake of T+ or T-] x 100/[total intake]) and fecal egg counts (FEC) were analyzed as a repeated measures design with animals nested within group. The group PG showed a clear increase in FEC after infection (from 0 to 3512 ± 446.34 eggs per gram; P < 0.05), but no further increase was observed after animals received T+ during conditioning (3145 ± 401.44 eggs per gram; P > 0.05). During Tests 1 and 2 animals preferred T- (Test 1: PG=71.0 ± 3.9 %; NP=71.2 ± 4.3 %; Test 2: PG=73.9 ± 2.8 % NP=74.7 ± 2.7 %; P < 0.05). However, preference reversed after conditioning (Test 3): Both groups, PG and NP, preferred T+ (PG=61.0 ± 3.9 %; NP=62.6 ± 3.4 %; P < 0.05). These results stand in contrast with previous studies using other types of antiparasitic condensed tannins (e.g., tannins extracted from the quebracho tree) with antinutritional properties. In such studies, only parasitized animals increase preference for a quebracho tannin-containing food relative to non-parasitized individuals. When condensed tannins do not exert negative post-ingestive effects on consumers, or even provide post-ingestive benefits (i.e., improved nitrogen utilization) like those observed in sainfoin, both parasitized and non-parasitized animals may display similar levels of acceptability to the tannin-rich feed. These results are consistent with a feed-forward mechanism in which endoparasitic loads are controlled by the frequent ingestion of safe bioactive-containing feeds which are typically preferred by consumers. Virginia State University Research evaluated the use of terminal sire (Dorset rams) under and accelerated mating system using landrace hair sheep.  Matings were completed in November and July, purebred and crossbred lambs produced from these mating were raised under rotational grazing in Spring and Fall with or without agro-byproduct supplementation.  Lambs were harvested and carcass characteristics and composition were determined. University of Wisconsin-Madison The sheep flock at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arlington Agricultural Research Station has reduced its incidence of Ovine Progressive Pneumonia (OPP) from 47% in 2012 to 3% in 2015 with the goal of eliminating OPP within the next few years. This has been done without the total culling of OPP positive ewes and without extensive artificial rearing of lambs, but instead by separation of OPP negative and OPP positive ewes into separate flocks and annual testing for OPP.  The 21st Annual Symposium of the Dairy Sheep Association of North America was held on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus on November 5-7, 2015 with a record attendance of over 160 dairy sheep producers, sheep milk processors, commercial company representatives, government representatives, and sheep scientists and educators. After completing the requirements of the Ph.D. degree in Animal Breeding and Genetics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, working with dairy sheep data, in summer 2016, Tom Murphy will move to Montana State University to take up a faculty research/teaching position in sheep production and management.

Publications

Publications (Journal Articles, Abstracts, Book Chapters, Extension, Outreach) Dale Bumper Small Farms Research Center, USDA, ARS, Booneville, Arkansas Journal Articles Lay, C.T., Burke, J.M., Paulsen, D.B., Chowdhury, S.I., 2015. A triple gene mutant of BoHV-1 administered intranasally in lambs replicates efficiently in the nasal epithelium and induces neutralizing antibody. Int. J. Vacc. Immuniz. 2.1, 1-4. Acharya, M. Burke, J.M., Coffey, K.P., Kegley, E.B., Miller, J.E., Smyth, E., Welborn, M.G., Terrill, T.H., Mosjidis, J.A., Rosenkrans, C. Jr., 2016. Changes in concentrations of trace minerals in lambs fed sericea lespedeza leaf meal pellets with or without dietary sodium molybdate. J. Anim. Sci. 94, 1592-1599. Riley, D.G., Burke, J.M., Chase, C.C., Jr., Coleman, S.W., 2016. Heterosis and direct effects for Charolais-sired calf weight and growth, cow weight and weight changes, and ratios of cow and calf weights and weight changes across warm season lactation in Romosinuano, Angus, and F1 cows in Arkansas. J. Anim. Sci. 94, 1-12. Burke, J.M., Miller, J.E., Terrill, T.H., Smyth, E., Acharya, M., 2016. Examination of commercially available copper oxide wire particles in combination with albendazole for control of gastrointestinal nematodes in lambs. Vet. Parasitol. 215, 1-4. Matthews, K.K., O’Brien, D.J., Whitley, N.C., Burke, J.M., Miller, J.E., Barczewski, R.A., 2016. Investigation of possible pumpkin seeds and ginger effects on gastrointestinal nematode infection indicators in meat goat kids and lambs. Small Rum. Res. 136, 1-6. Riley, D.G., Burke, J.M.,Chase, C.C., Jr., Coleman, S.W., 2015. Genetic effects for reproductive performance of straightbred and crossbred Romosinuano and Angus cows in a temperate zone. Livest. Sci. 180, 22-26. Abstracts Muir, J.P., T.H. Terrill, J.A. Mosjidis, J.-M. Luginbuhl, J.E. Miller, J.M. Burke., 2016. Harvest regimens to maximize sericea lespedeza crude protein and condensed tannins. Proc. 70th Southern Past. For. Crop Impr. Conf., 17 (Abstr.). Wright, S., Arsi, K., Donoghue, A.M., Hale, M., Spencer, T., O’Gorman, M., Goodwin, H.L., Jose, S., Fanatico, A.C., Gekara, O.J., Burke, J.M., Pote, D.H., 2016. Armed to farm: Soldiering the success of military veterans in new poultry, livestock and agroforestry enterprises. Small Farms Conf. 2016. Miller, J.E., Kelly, V., Burke, J.M., 2016. In vitro efficacy of three novel compounds on development and survival of gastrointestinal nematode larvae in feces of sheep. J. Anim. Sci. 94 (E-Suppl. 2),  (Abstr.). Acharya, M., Burke, J.M., Smyth, E., Ngere, L., Rorie, R.W., 2016. Serum anti-mullerian hormone as an indicator of fertility in Katahdin ewes. J. Anim. Sci. 94 (E-Suppl. 2), xx (Abstr.). Acharya, M., Burke, J.M., Smyth, E., Davis, A., Lester, T.D., Rorie, R.W., 2016. Effect of semen extender and storage temperature on ram sperm motility over time. J. Anim. Sci. 94 (E-Suppl. 1), 53 (Abstr.). Spangler, G.L., Burke, J.M., Notter, D., Morgan, J., Rosen, B.D., Sonstegard, T.S., Van Tassell, C.P., 2015. Structural analysis of the Katahdin sheep genome. BARC Poster Day. Cornell University Posbergh, C. J. 2015. Genotypes of Cornell Dorset and Dorset Crosses Compared with Romneys for Melatonin Receptor 1a. Cornell University Undergraduate Research Honors Thesis. Stanton, tatiana L. “Dealing with Frostbite on Newborn Lambs and Kids.” Country Folks Magazine, Sheep & Goat Issue, 10 August 2015. Print, online 21 October 2015 at eXtension at http://articles.extension.org/pages/73207/dealing-with-frostbite-of-newborn-lambs-and-kids Stanton, tatiana L. “Tis the Season for Deer Worm.” Country Folks Magazine, Sheep & Goat Issue, 09 November 2015. Print, online at http://www.scribd.com/doc/289637806/Tis-the-Season-for-Deer-Worm University of Kentucky Factsheets Aaron, Debra K. and Donald G. Ely. 2015. ASC-219: An Introduction to Sheep, University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Lexington. Aaron, Debra. K. 2015. ASC-220. Basic Sheep Genetics. University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Lexington. Aaron, Debra K. 2015. ASC-221: Keeping and Using Flock Performance Records. University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Lexington. Aaron, Debra K. 2015. Sheep Breeding: Heritability, EBVs, EPDs, and NSIP. University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Lexington. Aaron, Debra K. 2015. ASC-223: Inbreeding in Sheep. University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Lexington. Aaron, Debra K. 2015. ASC-224. Crossbreeding Considerations in Sheep. University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Lexington. Ely, Donald G. and Endre Fink.  2015.  ASC-214:  Is Creep Feeding Lambs a Profitable Undertaking.  University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, Lexington. Outreach Aaron, Debra K. 2015. Genetically Speaking: The Sheep’s Role in History (Part 1). Hoofprint 21:18-20. Aaron, Debra K. 2015. Genetically Speaking: The Sheep’s Role in History (Part 2). Hoofprint 22:18-20. Ely, Donald G.  2015.  News To Ewes:  Alternative Forage Crops.  Hoofprint 20:20-23. Ely, Donald G.  2015.  News To Ewes:  Nutritional Architecture of the Sheep.  Hoofprint 21:22-25. Ely, Donald G.  2015.  News To Ewes:  What is This Stuff We Call Energy.  Hoofprint 22:22-25 Ely, Donald G.  and Debra K. Aaron.  2016.  Genetically Speaking…News to Ewes: Stomach Worm x Breed x Management Interactions.  Hoofprint 23:18-25. Louisiana State University Journal Articles Kommuru, D.S., Whitley, N.C., Miller, J.E., Mosjidis, J.A., Burke, J.M., Gujja, S., Mechineni, A., Terrill, T.H., 2015. Effect of sericea lespedeza leaf meal pellets on adult female Haemonchus contortus in goats. Vet Parasitol 207, 170-175. Acharya, M., Burke, J.M., Coffey, K.P., Kegley, E.B., Miller, J.E., Huff, G.R., Smyth, E., Terrill, T.H., Mosjidis, J.A., Rosenkrans, C., 2015. Changes in hematology, serum biochemistry, and gastrointestinal nematode infection in lambs fed sericea lespedeza with or without dietary sodium molybdate. J Anim Sci 93, 1952-1961. Khan, S., Afshan, K., Mirza, B., Miller, J.E., Manan, A., Irum, S., Rizvi, S.S.R., Qayyum, M., 2015.  Anthelmintic properties of extracts from Artemisia plants against nematodes. Trop Biomedicine 32, 257–268. Min, B.R., Wilson, E.A., Solaiman, S., Miller, J., 2015. Effects of condensed tannin-rich pine bark diet on experimentally infected with Haemonchus contortus in meat goats. Int J Vet Health Sci Res. 3, 49-57. Book Chapters Miller, J.E., 2015. Internal and external parasites. In: T.A. Gipson, R.C. Merkel, K. Williams, T. Sahlu (Eds.), Meat Goat Production Hand Book, The (Kika) de la Garza American Institute for Goat Research, Langston University, Langston, OK: 105-122. Proceedings/Abstracts Hamilton, T., Terrill, T.H., Kommuru, D.S., Rivers, A., Mosjidis, J.A., Miller, J.E., Burke, J.M., 2015. Effect of supplemental sericea lespedeza leaf meal pellets on health and productivity of grazing goats. Proc USDA SCC-81, 10-11. Acharya, M., Burke, J.M., Miller. J.E., Terrill, T.H., Smyth, E., Coffey, K., Rosenkrans, C., 2015.  Changes in GIN infection measures and heat stress in lambs fed sericea lespedeza (SL) with or without sodium molybdate. Proc USDA SCC-81, 12-14. Miller, J.E., Burke, J.M., Terrill, T.H., 2015. Potential new dewormer methods. Proc What Works With Worms Congress (Pretoria, South Africa), CD. Whitley, N.C., Miller, J.E., 2015. Does diatomaceous earth have a role in worm control? Proc What Works With Worms Congress (Pretoria, South Africa), CD. Smyth, E., Burke, J.M., Acharya, M., Miller, J.E., Coffey, K.P. 2015. Grass finishing systems for lambs born in fall and winter. Ann Meeting Amer Soc Anim Sci Southern Section, 9. Hamilton, T.N., Terrill, T.H., Kommuru, D.S., Rivers, A., Mosjidia, J.A., Miller, J.E., Burke, J.M., 2015. Effect of supplemental sericea lespedeza leaf meal pellets on health and productivity of grazing goats. Ann Meeting Amer Soc Anim Sci Southern Section, 10. Burke, J.M., Acharya, M., Miller, J.E., Terrill, T.H., Smyth, E., Huff, G.R., Kegley, E.B., Coffey, K.P., Rosenkrans, C.F., 2015. Influence of sericea lespedeza on relationships between gastrointestinal nematode infection and hematology, serum biochemistry, and trace minerals in lambs. Ann Meeting Amer Soc Anim Sci Southern Section, 44. Burke, J.M., Miller, J.E., Terrill, T.H., Smyth, E., Acharya, M., 2015. Efficacy of copper oxide wire particles from three sources to control Haemonchus contortus in lambs. Ann Meeting Amer Soc Anim Sci Southern Section, 46. University of Rhode Island Abstracts Barone, C., Zajac, A., Reed, J., Krueger, C., Petersson, K. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy of Haemonchus contortus exposed to cranberry vine in vivo. AAVP 2016 Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas, August 5-9, 2016. Barone, C., Ferguson, S., Zajac, A., Brown, R., Reed, J., Krueger, C., Petersson, K. In vitro screening of anthelmintic efficacy of commercial varieties and cultivars of birdsfoot trefoil against Haemonchus contortus. 2016 Joint Annual Meeting (JAM) (ASAS-ADSA-CSAS-WSASAS) in Salt Lake City, Utah, July 19-23, 2016. Videos Why and How To Practice Integrated Parasite Control For Sheep and Goats. This video was produced with funding from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch Project 1007290.  This is contribution #5435 of the College of the Environment and Life Sciences, University of Rhode Island. February 2016.  This video is part of an online series of videos developed for the purpose of providing small ruminant producers with an online option for FAMACHA© certification as part of NESARE grant LNE15-342. South Dakota State University Refereed Publications Redding, P.L., J. E. Held, C.L. Wright and J.A. Clapper. 2014.  Effect of fat source on growth performance and carcass characteristics of growing lambs. Sheep and Goat Journal Vol.29:45-50. Crane, A.R., R.R. Redden, M.S. Crouse, J.D. Kirsch, J.E. Held, and C.S. Schauer. 2015. Influence of dried distiller’s grains with soluble on ram lamb growth and reproductive traits. Proceedings of the ASAS Western Section Vol.66. Non-Refereed Publications Held, J.E., A. Kolthoff, J. Reiners and D. Brake. 2015. Effect of corn stover on lamb growth performance and dry matter intake during the finishing period.  Proceedings of the 2015 NCERA-214 coordinating committee. Presentations Held, J.E.*, A. Kolthoff, J. Reiners and D. Brake. 2015. Effect of corn stover on lamb growth performance and dry matter intake during the finishing period.  Proceedings of the 2015 NCERA-214 coordinating committee. Held, J.E. 2015. 2015 South Dakota Master Lamb Producers Awards Program Highlights. SDSGA Annual Convention September 26, 2015. Rapid City, SD Held, J.E. 2015. SDSU Research Program Summary. SDSGA Annual Convention September 26, 2015. Rapid City, SD Held, J.E. 2015. Impact of veterinary feed directive (VFD) on the sheep industry. 2015. Center of the Nation NSIP Sheep Sale Education Program-Spencer, IA Held, J.E. 2015. Factors that influence lamb growth efficiency. 2015. Center of the Nation NSIP Sheep Sale Education Program-Spencer, IA Popular Press Publication Held, J.E. 2015. Shear Courage. Farm Journal Business Section – June 2015. National scope. Texas A&M AgriLife Research Journal Article Waldron, D.F., W.J. Thompson, and R.J. Hogan. 2015. Factors affecting lamb prices in San Angelo, Texas. Sheep & Goat Res. J. (accepted) Theses Ebert, M. 2015. Comparison of Texas Rambouillet sheep with Merino F1 crosses and their wool as it undergoes manufacturing within the United States apparel industry. M.S. Angelo State Univ. Smartt, J. 2015. Anti-Mullerian hormone: Potential association with fertility in ewes. M.S. Angelo State Univ. Texas A&M AgriLife Research Publications Waldron, D.F.  2016  Improvement of sheep through selection of performance-tested and progeny-tested breeding animals.  Texas A&M AgriLife Res. San Angelo. Rep. 2016-1. (<a href="http://sanangelo.tamu.edu/performance-tests/ram-performance-test/">http://sanangelo.tamu.edu/performance-tests/ram-performance-test/</a>) Waldron, D.F. 2016. Sire summary of ram test performance (1995 – 2016). Texas A&M AgriLife Res. San Angelo. Rep. 2016-2. (<a href="http://sanangelo.tamu.edu/performance-tests/ram-performance-test/">http://sanangelo.tamu.edu/performance-tests/ram-performance-test/</a>) Utah State University Villalba, J.J., Spackman&dagger;, C., Goff, B., Klotz, J.L., Griggs, T., and MacAdam, J.W. 2016. Interaction between a tannin-containing legume and endophyte-infected tall fescue seed on lambs’ feeding behavior and physiology. Journal of Animal Science. 94: 845-857. Lagrange, S.P. and Villalba, J.J. 2016. Influence of forage diversity on feeding behavior and diet digestibility in lambs. The American Dairy Science Association (ADSA), the American Society of Animal Science (ASAS), 2016 Joint Annual Meeting. Salt Lake City, Utah. July 19-23, 2016. Villalba, J.J., Costes-Thiré, M., and Ginane, C. 2016. Phytochemicals in animal health; diet selection and trade-offs between costs and benefits. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society. In Press. Reeve, J., Hoagland, L., Villalba, J.J., Carr, P., Atucha, A., Cambardella, C., Davis, D., Delate, K. 2016. Organic farming, soil health and food quality: considering possible linkages. Advances in Agronomy. In Press. MacAdam, J.W. and Villalba, J.J. 2015. Beneficial effects of temperate forage legumes that contain condensed tannins. Agriculture. 20:475-91. Villalba, J.J., Provenza, F.D., Catanese, F., and Distel, R.A. 2015. Understanding and manipulating diet choice in grazing animals. Animal Production Science. 55:261-271. Villalba, J.J., Costes-Thiré, M., and Ginane, C. 2016. Phytochemicals in animal health; diet selection and trade-offs between costs and benefits. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society. In Press. Costes-Thiré, M., Villalba, J.J. and Ginane, C. 2016. Increased intake of tannin-rich sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) pellets by parasitized and non-parasitized sheep after a period of conditioning. The American Dairy Science Association (ADSA), the American Society of Animal Science (ASAS), 2016 Joint Annual Meeting. Salt Lake City, Utah. July 19-23, 2016. Virginia State University Journal Article <ol start="2015"> <li>K. Matthews, D. J. O’Brien, N. C. Whitley, J. M. Burke, J. E. Miller, and R. A. Barczewski. 2015. Investigation of possible pumpkin seeds and ginger effects on gastrointestinal nematode infection indicators in meat goat kids and lambs. Accepted to Small Ruminant Research 136 (2016) 1–6.</li> </ol> Abstracts <ol start="2015"> <li>Schoenian, J. Semler, D. Gordon, M. B. Bennett, and D. O’Brien. 2015. Health, performance, and carcass characteristics of pen-fed vs. pasture-raised meat goats. American Society of Animal Science Southern Section. J. Anim. Sci. Vol 93, Suppl. S3: 101.</li> </ol> Lemma, B., Lee, J. H., Wildeus, S., Kaanan G. Kouakou, B.  2015. Chemical composition and quality of fresh lamb from rationally grazed hair and wool x hair sheep lambs as influenced by soy hull supplementation. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 93, Suppl. s3:168 Lemma, B., Lee, J. H., Wildeus, S., Kouakou, B., Kaanan G.  2015. Fatty acid composition of different fat depots from hair and wool x hair sheep supplemented with soy hull on pasture.  J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 93, Suppl. s3:791 Wildeus, S. O’Brien, D. 2016. Effect of sire breed on pregnancy rate in landrace hair sheep during summer mating. Proc. Ann. Meet. South. Sect. Am. Soc. Anim. Sci., p.54. O’Brien, D., Wildeus S., Nartea, T. J., Lee, J.  2016.  The influence of breed and supplementation on consumer ratings of meat quality attributes of pasture-raised lambs. Proc. Ann. Meet. South. Sect. Am. Soc. Anim. Sci., p. 52. Wildeus, S. Lee, J., Teutsch, C.D., Nartea, T.J.  2016.  Use of agro-by-products to supplement hair and wool x hair crossbred lambs grazing fescue pasture: Growth and gastrointestinal parasites. Proc. Ann. Meet. South. Sect. Am. Soc. Anim. Sci., p. 50. Tripp, C., Lee, J., Wildeus, S., Lemma, B.B. (2016) Use of agro-by-products to supplement hair and wool x hair crossbred lambs grazing fescue pasture: Carcass characteristics. Proc. Ann. Meet. South. Sect. Am. Soc. Anim. Sci., p. 50                                                                                         West Virginia University Articles Holt, R.M., E.A. Shepherd, A.G. Ammer, S.A. Bowdridge. 2015. Effects of peripheral blood mononuclear cells on Haemonchus concortus larval motility in vitro. Parasit. Immunol. 37:553-556. Jacobs, J.R., S.P. Greiner, S.A. Bowdridge. 2015. Serum interleukin-4 (IL-4) production is associated with lower fecal egg count in parasite-resistant sheep. Vet. Parasitol. 211:102-105 Bowdridge, S.A., A.M. Zajac, D.R. Notter. 2015. St. Croix sheep produce a rapid and greater cellular immune response contributing to reduced establishment of Haemonchus contortus. Vet. Parasitol. 208:204-210. MacKinnon, K.M., S.A. Bowdridge, I. Kanevsky-Mullarky, A.M. Zajac, D.R. Notter. 2015. Gene expression profiles of hair and wool sheep reveal importance of IL-13 and other Th2 immune mechanisms for increased resistance to Haemonchus contortus. J. Anim. Sci. 93:2074-2082. Jacobs, J.R. K.N. Sommers, A.M. Zajac, D.R. Notter, S.A. Bowdridge. 2016. Early IL-4 gene expression in abomasum is associated with resistance to Haemonchus contortus in hair and wool sheep breeds. Parasit. Immunol. DOI: 10.1111/pim.12320 Knights, M., D. Singh-Knights (2015). Lifetime Productivity of the Ewe Flock Starts With the Ewe Lamb. The West Virginia Small Farm Advocate, Summer 2015 Edition, pg. 16 & 17 Knights, M., Redhead, A.K., D’Souza, K.N.D., S.L., and Baptiste, Q. (2015). Effect of stimulation with a gonadotropin mixture on reproductive outcome in nulliparous ewes bred during seasonal anestrus and early breeding season. Anim. Reprod. Sci. 159: 198-204. Rastle-Simpson, S.L., D’Souza, K.N.D., Singh-Knights, D., Baptiste, Q., and Knights, M. (2015). Effect of system of lamb rearing and season on early postpartum fertility of ewes and growth performance of lambs in Katahdin sheep. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition (Accepted manuscript ID is JAPAN-Sep-15-530.) Knights, M., and Singh-Knights, D. (2015). Use of Controlled Internal Drug Releasing (CIDR) Devices to Control Reproduction in Goats: A Review: Animal Science Journal (In Review manuscript ID is ASJ-2015-0508). L. Deacon, M.L., Knights, M. and Inskeep, E. K. (2015). Effects of photoperiodic manipulation on growth rate and ability to breed fall-born ewe lambs in spring. Sheep and Goat Research Journal 30: 30-35. Conference Proceedings Garza, J., S.A. Bowdridge. 2015. Texel crossbred lambs show increased resistance Haemonchus contortus. 60th Annual Meeting AAVP, Boston, MA. Jacobs, J.R., S.A. Bowdridge. 2015. Peripheral immune cells of St. Croix sheep rapidly produce IL-4 in response to Haemonchus contortus antigen in vitro. 60th Annual Meeting AAVP, Boston, MA. Shepherd, E., J. Garza, S.A. Bowdridge. 2015. Quantification of Haemonchus contortus larval death after culture with host immune cells by measuring larval ATP. 60th Annual Meeting AAVP, Boston, MA. Crawford, C., D.J. Mata-Padrino, D.P. Belesky, E.E. Felton, S.A. Bowdridge. 2015. Effects of protein supplementation on parasitism in grazing lambs. ASAS Southern Section Meeting, Atlanta, GA. Paul, C.D., Greenleaf, E.N., Redhead A.K. and Knights, M. (2015). Effect of timing of PGF2α administration in a short term progesterone-based estrous synchronization protocol on fertility in ewes. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Orlando, FL, USA, July 12-16, 2015. J. Anim. Sci. 93: (Suppl. 3):495 Greenleaf, E.N., Paul, C.D., Adebiyi, A.E., Powell, K.J., Redhead A.K. and Knights, M. (2015). Effect of weaning rapid rebreeding in Katahdin ewes. Joint Annual Meeting of the ADSA/ASAS Orlando, FL, USA, July 12-16, 2015. J. Anim. Sci. 93: (Suppl. 3):495  University of Wisconsin-Madison Journal Articles Murphy, T. W., D. L. Thomas, and T. L. Montgomery. 2016. Linear and nonlinear mixed model analyses of growth performance of commercial U.S. dairy buck kids. Small Ruminant Res. 136:151-155. Contributed Papers Ferreira, V.C, G.J.M. Rosa, Y.M. Berger, and D.L. Thomas. 2015. Effects of breed and hybrid vigor on lamb survival. Proc. 63rd Annual Spooner Sheep Day, Dept. Animal Sci., Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison.  pp. 23-25. Ferreira, V. C., G. J. M. Rosa, Y. M. Berger, D. L. Thomas. 2015. Effects of breed and hybrid vigor on lamb survival. Proc. 21st Dairy Sheep Association of North America Symp., Madison, Wisconsin, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dept. of Animal Sciences. pp. 86-88. Ferreira, V.C, D.L. Thomas, B.D. Valente, and G.J.M. Rosa. 2015. Number of lambs born and milk production. Proc. 63rd Annual Spooner Sheep Day, Dept. Animal Sci., Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison.  pp. 55-57. Murphy, T. W. 2015. Estimated breeding values do predict future performance. Proc. 63rd Annual Spooner Sheep Day, Dept. Animal Sci., Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison.  pp. 3-8. Murphy, T. W. 2015. Estimated breeding values do predict future performance. Proc. 21st Dairy Sheep Association of North America Symp., Madison, Wisconsin, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dept. of Animal Sciences. pp. 80-85. Murphy, T. W. 2015. Organizing breeding groups: An approach to maximize whole-flock genetic gain while controlling for inbreeding. Proc. 63rd Annual Spooner Sheep Day, Dept. Animal Sci., Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison.  pp. 46-51. Murphy, T. W. 2015. The effect of late gestation ambient environmental temperature on subsequent litter birth weight in twin-bearing dairy ewes. Proc. 63rd Annual Spooner Sheep Day, Dept. Animal Sci., Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison.  pp. 52-54. Petzel, E. A., T. W. Murphy, R. L. Burgett, and P. W. Holman. 2015. The effect of sodium bicarbonate supplementation on dairy ewe performance. Proc. 63rd Annual Spooner Sheep Day, Dept. Animal Sci., Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison.  pp. 32-35. Petzel, E. A., T. W. Murphy, R. L. Burgett, and P. W. Holman. 2015. Does feeding hay after milking increase milk yield in pastured dairy ewes? Proc. 63rd Annual Spooner Sheep Day, Dept. Animal Sci., Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison.  pp. 36-39. Thomas, D. L. and T. W. Murphy. 2015. Strategic use of terminal meat sires to improve flock production. Proc. 63rd Annual Spooner Sheep Day, Dept. Animal Sci., Univ. of Wisconsin-Madison.  pp. 9-14. Book Chapters Thomas, D.L. 2016. Dairy Sheep. In: Dairy Production & Processing: The Science of Milk and Milk Products, J. R. Campbell and R. T. Marshall (Eds.). Waveland Press, Inc., Long Grove, Illinois. pp. 247-262. Thomas, D. L. 2016.  Breeding and Selection.  In:  SID Sheep Production Handbook. Vol. 8. American Sheep Industry Association, Inc., Centennial, CO. Revised and edited the chapter. (In Press). Thomas, D. L. 2016. Production of Sheep Milk. In: Handbook of Milk of Non-Bovine Mammals (second edition), W. L. Wendorff, Y. W. Park and G. F. W. Haenlein (Eds.). Wiley, Oxford, U.K. (Submitted) Extension/Outreach Thomas,  D. L. 2015. Reducing the incidence of ovine progressive pneumonia in a Midwestern flock. The Shepherd 60(7):16. Thomas,  D. L. 2015. Reducing the incidence of ovine progressive pneumonia in a Midwestern flock. The Wisconsin Shepherd. Spring 2015. p. 16.

Impact Statements

Utah Agricultural Experiment Station 1. The transformative new system proposed to finish animals - grazing a diversity of legumes containing bioactive compounds - will eliminate grain feeding and reduce environmental impacts relative to feed yards while maintaining beef production levels, enhancing profitability for producers and the quality of the product for consumers. 2. A better understanding of the net benefit of self-selection of bioactive-containing plants by livestock in complex feeding environments will allow for the development of innovative managing strategies aimed at providing the food alternatives and conditions for improving the nutrition, health and welfare of grazing animals. Virginia State University Landrace hair sheep breeds are well adapted to cope with marginal production conditions and gastrointestinal parasitism, but output is limited. We explored the use of a terminal sire breed to improve lamb growth rate on pasture with these breeds. Results showed that faster growth rates of crossbred compared to purebred lambs were achieved only when grazing was supplemented with agro-byproducts, and gastrointestinal parasitism was more prevalent when crossbred lambs were not supplemented. Producers adopting crossbreeding in land race hair sheep need to be adapt their production system to maximize the impact.

Date of Annual Report: 02/03/2018

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 06/12/2017 - 06/14/2017
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2015 - 01/01/1970

Participants

Participants Attachment:

Minutes 2017 Annual NCERA 214 meeting.docx

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

Minutes 2017 Annual NCERA 214 meeting.docx

Accomplishments

Accomplishments Cornell University Noteworthy progress has been made toward identifying genes associated with out of season lambing. The ovine 606,006 SNP chip was used to genotype 28 seasonal ewes and 26 aseasonal ewes, with 4 SNPs found to be significantly related to out of season lambing. Almost 3 of 9 lactations planned in our project on the effect of potentially fermentable fiber on milk production of Dorset and Finnsheep × Dorset ewes have been completed. Dale Bumper Small Farms Research Center, USDA, ARS, Booneville, AR Improved breeding strategies to aid organic small ruminant production. The greatest barrier to organic small ruminant (such as sheep and goats) production in the U.S. is reduced weight gains and death due to gastrointestinal parasites. Research demonstrates that genetic selection for parasite resistance in sheep with heritability as high as 0.5 can eliminate the need for most deworming and reduce mortality and morbidity, especially with good nutrition and pasture management. As lead for a multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary team funded by NIFA's Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative, ARS scientists from Booneville, AR, along with colleagues from Louisiana State University, Virginia Tech, Fort Valley State University, and the University of Arkansas, and cooperation from several farmers, have developed selection tools to aid in the control of gastrointestinal nematodes for organic and conventional production of small ruminants After selecting replacement stock from parasite-resistant parents (determined by fecal egg counts around and after the time of lambing), fewer animals within the flocks required deworming. The research has resulted in farmer-friendly publications available through the National Center for Appropriate Technology and the website of the American Consortium for Small Ruminant Parasite Control, and improved accuracies of Estimated Breeding Values for parasite resistance reported by the National Sheep Improvement Program, resulting in increased value of breeding stock and increased use by commercial farms. University of Idaho Statement: The University of Idaho is engaging young students who have expressed an interest in learning about the sheep industry, including a new UI Sheep club. The University recently acquired a registered Suffolk flock (approximately 100 ewes), to add to the Suffolk, Targhee and Polypay flocks already on campus. The primary focus of the Suffolk flock is to “develop strategies to improve and predict efficiency of lean growth, carcass quality, and meat palatability.” While this project has really just began, all sheep have been entered in National Sheep Improvement Program and have been genotyped with the 50K SNP chip. As we continue to collect and add carcass trait information, primarily from the UI Meats laboratory, for the animals from this flock, we will be able to properly adjust our genetic selection indices. The production of viable gametes is an integral part of reproduction and therefore a critical aspect for the sustainability of the sheep industry. Homologous recombination during meiosis is an important process during gametogenesis that contributes to genetic variation and ensures proper chromosome segregation. Our data suggests that global recombination rates are 10% higher in Targhee than in Suffolk rams. Despite having a similar number of chromosome arms and genome size, the number of recombination events in sheep spermatocytes is approximately 20% higher than in cattle. This research provides important information regarding recombination rates in sheep spermatocytes and has a direct impact on genetic breed predictions. Understanding the process of recombination will lead to enhanced genetic predictions that will promote the sustainability of the sheep industry. Michigan State University Outreach accomplishments involved the presentation of programs with proceedings/manuals on birth management, parasite management, grazing management and health management for small ruminants production under a wide scale of farm size and operator experience. Applied research efforts included projects to develop a production simulation model for different modes of small ruminant production. In addition, a thorough characterization of maternal circulating levels placental glycoproteins and progesterone was completed indicating the the pregnancy specific glycoprotein, PAG1, may be a marker of placental function throughout gestation in sheep and also a good predictor of fetal number. Courses were offered as a clinical clerkship to DVM students on small ruminant production medicine and to undergraduate students on sheep production. Finally, an extensive renovation of the MSU sheep teaching and research center was completed including a 5800 ft2 temperature controlled lambing unit and 7900 ft2 multi-use housing area). These renovations and new additions have allowed a doubling of flock size (380 ewes), establishment of a total mixed ration feeding system and an insulated lambing unit to facilitate research, teaching and outreach using sheep to benefit both sheep production and biomedical research. North Dakota State University Lambs were selected, production measures recorded, and lambs were harvested at the NDSU Meats Laboratory. Consumer taste panel work has been scheduled to evaluate lamb palatability. Further data collection and analysis will be completed. South Dakota State University Two graduate students Jessica Reiners and Ann Kolthoff have successfully completed MS degree requirements in the discipline of sheep production- Major (co) – advisor Dr. Jeff Held, SDSU Professor. Reiner’s thesis title “Lysine Bioavailability of Two Lipid Coated Lysine Products after Exposure to Silages with Different Acidities”. The Kolthoff thesis title, “Effect of Pre-Marketing Management Practices on Shrink Loss in Lambs”. Peer reviewed journal articles have been submitted for review from the Reiner’s thesis and preparation of manuscripts from the work of Kolthoff will be completed in 2017. Undergraduate sheep research projects under supervision of Dr. Held have been completed by Hattie Cramer and Lexi Slack both SDSU Animal Science students. Cramer conducted a study entitled “Evaluation of Commercially prepared Lamb Milk Replacers for Artificially Reared Lambs”. A research poster was presented at the 2017 SDSU Undergraduate Student Poster Session. For Slack the project title “Copper Levels in Common Feed Ingredients for Sheep”. A peer reviewed manuscript from this project has been published with the authors J.E. Held and L. Slack- at iGrow.org February 2017. Referred peer reviewed manuscript was published titled “Reduce Lamb Loss”, author Dr. Held. This publication is part of the 12 chapter “Increasing Your Lamb Crop” series on productivity best practices sponsored by the American Sheep Industry Association “Let’s Grow” committee. Available at the United States Lamb Resource Center, www.LambResourceCenter.com. This publication series compliments the focus of the NCERA-214 coordinating committee focus on “Increased Efficiency of Sheep Production”. Funding requests for two collaborative sheep educational programming projects with South Dakota State University (Dr. Held and Mr. Ollila) and North Dakota State University (Dr. Travis Hoffman) sheep extension and research staff has been submitted to the ASI “Let’s Grow” committee. Those project titles are “Northern Plains Lamb Value Discovery Program” and “Telling the Sheep Story”. SDSU sheep extension faculty, Dr. Jeff Held and Mr. Dave Ollila co-hosted the educational programming for the 79th Annual South Dakota Sheep Growers Annual Convention held September 30 and October 1st 2016 in Rapid City, SD. The 2-d educational program included facilities tours, workshops, lamb and wool promotion and featured presentations by industry experts, university personnel plus ASI and ALB representatives. There were three primary convention segments with attendance ranging from 150 to 200 people. A key target audience to attend this convention was new and beginner producers. Texas A&M AgriLife Research Results from multiple research trials have further demonstrated the nutritional and feeding value of ground woody products for use in ruminant livestock diets. These trials have also advanced our efforts to get ground juniper approved as a commercial feed ingredient. Our efforts have resulted in multiple publications and presentations related not only to using ground woody products, but evaluating the beneficial effects of plant secondary compounds on livestock production. Other accomplishments (previous year): * Multiple websites and social media sites have been constructed * Two graduate and two undergraduate students were trained during these projects. * Developed a conference that was attended by approximately 100 people * Received $120,000 from the US Forest Service * Received an in-kind donation of dried distillers grains worth approximately $6,000 * Collaborated with MT State Univ. and received funding ($39,400) from NSIIC A study has been implemented to estimate performance differences between Dorper and Rambouillet ewes. Estimates of breed differences for fertility, number of lambs born, lamb birth weight, lamb weaning weight, and lamb carcass traits were documented from records on ewes from 2 to 9 years of age. The main objective of this study is to evaluate lifetime lamb production from Dorper and Rambouillet ewes. Utah State University 1-Antioxidants, Diet Selection and the Control of Internal Parasites in Sheep Utah State University explored the impact of antioxidants on reductions of Haemonchus contortus burdens in sheep. The antioxidant (at 0.3% in the ration) did not seem to reduce fecal egg counts –an indirect estimate of parasitic burdens- or indicators of anemia in sheep. Researchers are looking at haptoglobin and immunoglobulins, as well as antioxidant activity in muscle to explore further potential physiological benefits of the antioxidant. Parasitized animals offered choices between feeds with or without antioxidant (CHP-1 and CHP-2) showed greater values of food conversion efficiency than parasitized animals fed the single diets AOX or Control. In addition, animals with parasitic burdens modified their diet selection by increasing their preference for the antioxidant in contrast to their non-parasitized counterparts. Moreover, the increased selection of antioxidant feed by parasitized animals paid off as greater feed efficiencies were observed in animals offered a choice than in parasitized lambs offered single rations. It is possible that the “positive stress” induced by the challenge of building a diet in animals offered choices may explain this pattern. Scientists are now measuring hormones that indicate chronic stress (haptoglobin) to test this hypothesis. Alternatively, it is likely the levels of antioxidant in the AOX diet was high, and in these conditions it has been shown that feed efficiencies decline as a consequence of a reduction in the efficiency of nutrient absorption in the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, animals that “diluted” the antioxidant in the choice treatments reduced the final concentration of the antioxidant, enhancing its effectiveness at improving animal performance. 2- Exploring the impact of nutritional state and secondary compounds on aspen (Populus tremuloides) intake by sheep Overbrowsing by ungulates is a major cause of poor aspen stand regeneration in some areas of North America. Utah State University has determined the influence of the nutritional state on aspen use by sheep. Results suggest that sheep grazing an understory with high protein to energy ratios are more prone to consume greater amounts of aspen than those animals grazing understories of greater energy and lower protein content. Virginia State University The final mating was completed in a 4 year trial that evaluated the use of terminal sire mating with Dorset rams in land race hair sheep ewes under an accelerated mating system. Lambing performance ewes was recorded, and pre-weaning growth and survival of purebred and terminal sire lambs was compared. Purebred and crossbred lambs were harvested and carcass characteristics and composition were determined after grazing stockpiled pasture in late fall with or without supplementation. West Virginia University: Research and outreach activities focused on increasing productivity and profitability of sheep operations. Results demonstrate that selection and nutritional management of ewe lambs can advance the age at first lambing and increase overall reproductive performance. Studies on breeding ewes out-of-season demonstrated that lambing rate can be increased by 25-30% through improved nutrition and gonadotropin stimulation.

Publications

Impact Statements

West Virginia University. Effects of Pre-breeding Nutritional Management, Weight Changes, and Age on Ewe Lamb Fertility and Relationship between the concentration of AMH and fertility in replacement ewe lambs. These studies demonstrate the opportunity to use an endocrine marker to select replacement females with high reproductive potential exist. This combined with appropriate pre-breeding nutritional management can reduce the age at first breeding, increase productivity of ewe lambs and potentially increase lifetime production of the breeding flock. Our combined outreach efforts will contribute to improved productivity of the ewe flock through better selection practices, increase productivity of ewe lambs, enhanced reproductive performance and alternative marketing systems which will contribute to increase profitability of sheep operations.

Date of Annual Report: 03/26/2019

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 06/04/2018 - 06/05/2018
Period the Report Covers: 10/01/2017 - 09/30/2018

Participants

Participants Attachment:

NCERA-214 Participants 2018.docx

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes Attachment:

NCERA-214 Meeting Minutes 2018.docx

Accomplishments

Iowa State University We are conducting what we believe to be the first-ever experiment investigating the effect of oral meloxicam treatment of ewes within 24 hours of lambing on milk production (as measured by lamb growth), ewe metabolic status, and markers of inflammation.   Michigan State University Outreach accomplishments involved the presentation of programs with proceedings/manuals on birth management, grazing management, forage management, nutrition/feed management  and health management for small ruminants production under a wide scale of farm size and operator experience.  Applied research efforts included development of a calculator tool to assess the profitability of lamb production.  In addition, a series of experiments were initiated to examine the impact of nutrition on reproductive outcome according to season in highly productive sheep.  These studies also allowed the study of changes in plane of nutrition and other management practices on fetal growth and development as well as potential impacts on postnatal growth, metabolism and reproductive function. Courses were offered as a clinical clerkship to DVM students on small ruminant production medicine and to undergraduate students on sheep production.  In addition, a new course was established for 2-year degree program students on sheep management   Montana State University Statement: In 2017 & 2018, the Montana State University Sheep Program secured over $475,000 in funding through grants and contracts, submitted or published 5 conference proceedings and 6 journal articles, and developed a program with University Food Services to incorporate approximately 60 research lambs each year onto student dining hall menus.    South Dakota State University Two graduate students Jessica Reiners and Ann Kolthoff have successfully completed MS degree requirements in the discipline of sheep production- Major (co) – advisor Dr. Jeff Held, SDSU Professor. Reiner’s thesis title “Lysine Bioavailability of Two Lipid Coated Lysine Products after Exposure to Silages with Different Acidities”. The Kolthoff thesis title, “Effect of Pre-Marketing Management Practices on Shrink Loss in Lambs”. Two peer reviewed journal articles have been published from the Reiner’s thesis.  Peer-reviewed extension publications will result from the work of Kolthoff will be completed in 2018, results have been shared with national producer audiences and NCERA-214 members. Undergraduate sheep research projects under supervision of Drs. Held and Perry at SDSU were completed in 2018 by Dathan Smerchek and Paige Anderson both SDSU Animal Science students. Smerchek conducted a study titled “Evaluate ram semen quality characteristics between subsequent ejaculates”. Anderson conducted a study titled “Influence of post-pubertal ram semen quality on ewe conception rates. For each study the student submitted an abstract and entered the undergraduate student poster competition the 2018 ASAS Midwest Section meeting held March 12, 2018 in Omaha, NE.   Funding has been granted by the ASI “Let’s Grow” committee to support the “Northern Plains Lamb Value Discovery Program” led by Dr. Travis Hoffman, NDSU and MN Sheep Extension Specialist and co-investigators SDSU Extension sheep staff, Dr. Jeff Held and Mr. David Ollila. SDSU sheep extension faculty, Dr. Jeff Held and Mr. Dave Ollila co-hosted the educational programming for the 80th Annual South Dakota Sheep Growers Annual Convention held September 29 and 30, 2017 in Brookings, SD. The 2-d educational program included facilities tours, workshops, lamb and wool promotion and featured presentations by industry experts, university personnel plus ASI and ALB representatives. There were three primary convention segments with attendance ranging from 150 to 200 people. A key target audience to attend this convention was new and beginner producers.   Texas A&M AgriLife Research, San Angelo Results from the previous year have further increased the nutritional and feeding value of ground juniper for use in ruminant livestock diets. Trials over the past 10 years are supporting the approval of using ground juniper as a commercial feed ingredient. Our efforts have resulted in multiple publications, a producer-oriented conference, and multiple presentations.   University of Maryland After doing a meat goat performance test for 11 years, the University of Maryland has transitioned to sheep research. The first research project is a comparison study of ram, wether, and short-scrotum ram lambs. In collaboration with other universities, the University of Maryland contributes to a comprehensive effort to educate producers as to the best management practices for controlling internal parasites in their flocks and herds.     USDA, ARS, Dale Bumpers Small Farms Research Center Improved breeding strategies to aid organic small ruminant production.   The greatest barrier to organic small ruminant (such as sheep and goats) production in the U.S. is reduced weight gains and death due to gastrointestinal parasites. Research demonstrates that genetic selection for parasite resistance in sheep with heritability as high as 0.5 can eliminate the need for most deworming and reduce mortality and morbidity, especially with good nutrition and pasture management. As lead for a multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary team funded by NIFA's Organic Agriculture Research and Extension Initiative and the Small Business Innovation Research program, ARS scientists from Booneville, AR, along with colleagues from Louisiana State University, Virginia Tech, Fort Valley State University, and the University of Arkansas, and cooperation from several farmers, have developed selection tools to aid in the control of gastrointestinal nematodes for organic and conventional production of small ruminants   After selecting replacement stock from parasite-resistant parents (determined by fecal egg counts around and after the time of lambing), fewer animals within the flocks required deworming.  The research has resulted in farmer-friendly publications available through the National Center for Appropriate Technology and the website of the American Consortium for Small Ruminant Parasite Control, and improved accuracies of Estimated Breeding Values for parasite resistance reported by the National Sheep Improvement Program, resulting in increased value of breeding stock and increased use by commercial farms.    University of Rhode Island This research and outreach program continues to investigate sustainable alternatives to commercial dewormers and educate small ruminant producers in best management practices for parasite control.   Utah State University Utah State University explored the impact of nutrients and an antiparasitic secondary compound on diet selection and indicators of health in sheep. This study gives a new insight on how sheep prioritize selection of crude protein, energy and a medicinal plant secondary compound (condensed tannins) when experiencing a parasitic burden. Parasitized lambs gave priority to the intake of energy rather than tannins or protein. Among ruminants, most of the studies have focused on protein supplementation because of the link between a protein rich diet and the subsequent immune response. However, few studies aimed at evaluating the effect of energy supplementation in sheep in the perspective of enhancing resistance or resilience towards GINs infections (Hoste et al., 2008). This study suggests that more attention should be given to this variable, particularly in changing and unbalanced feeding environments.   Virginia State University Initial data was collected in a multi-year project evaluating a semi-continuous lamb production system with landrace hair sheep under forage-based management using accelerated mating.  Sub-flocks of ewes are bred and lamb in 4 months intervals, and resulting lambs are managed on forage and are marketed as pasture-raised lamb at 80-90 lb. bodyweight. Data are collected on seasonal ewe lambing and weaning performance, and growth rates of lambs are recorded under different seasonal forage environments, and marketing options (live animal, processed and sold hold, sale of cuts for direct marketing.

Publications

Fort Valley State University Abstracts: Smith, E., N. Whitley, K. Lyte, A. Singh, L. Greer-Mapson, R. Lewis, V. Owen, G. Dykes, A. Roberson, J.M. Burke, and T.H Terrill. 2017. Effect of an Iron Supplement on Indicators of Gastrointestinal Nematode (GIN) Parasitism in Sheep. 18th biennial research symposium ARD proceedings., p 181.   <ol start="2017"> <li>L. Greene, B. Kouakou, P. Dangal, J. H. Lee, and J. N. Sheed. 2017. Effects of replacing corn with dried distiller’s grains plus solubles and poultry fat on performance and meat quality of lambs consuming bermudagrass hay. J. Anim. Sci. 95 (Suppl 4):327-328.</li> </ol>   Extension/Outreach: Popular press articles: Whitley, N. “When deworming is not enough”. July 2017 Timely Topic article: American Consortium for Small Ruminant Parasite Control (www.wormx.info) – also linked on Facebook, over 38,000 reaches in 3 days.   Externally reviewed fact sheets: Whitley, N. Goat and Sheep Production: Starting an Enterprise. 2017. Fort Valley State University. ANR-AS-16206. Whitley, N. Goat and Sheep Production: Breed Basics. 2016, updated 2017. Fort Valley State University. ANR-AS-16201. Updated 2017. Whitley, N. Goat and Sheep Production: Breeding Stock Selection Basics. 2016, updated 2017. Fort Valley State University. ANR-AS-16202. Whitley, N. Goat and Sheep Production: Feeding Basics. 2016, updated 2017. Fort Valley State University. ANR-AS-16203.  Whitley, N. Goat and Sheep Production: Breeding Basics. 2016, updated 2017. Fort Valley State University. ANR-AS-16204. Whitley, N. Goat and Sheep Production: Hoof Care Basics. 2016, updated 2017. Fort Valley State University. ANR-AS-16205.   Presentations Whitley, N. STAG vets introduction to small ruminant production, Ware Cty, May 19, 2018 Whitley, N. Small ruminant production Q&A, Meriwether Cty, May 3, 2018 Whitley, N. FAMACHA/parasite management, Monroe Cty, April 19, 2018 Whitley, N. FAMACHA/parasite management, Brooks Cty, March 17, 2018, 10 participants Whitley, N. STAG Vets, Intro Small Ruminant Production, March 10, 2018, 20 participants Whitley, N. Intro to Small Ruminant Production, March 2, 2018, 10+ participants Whitley, N. SSAWG, Small Ruminant Health; Introduction/Sustainable Practices, Jan 19, 2018, 75+ participants Whitley, N. Goat and Sheep Production, Colquitt, GA Jan 18, 2018, 41 participants Whitley, N. Goat and Sheep Production, Quitman, GA Dec 14, 2017, 15 participants Whitley, N. Delmarva All Worms All Day, DESU, Dover, DE, Dec 9, 2017, 75 participants Whitley, N. FAMACHA/IPM workshop, PVAMU, Nov 18, 2017, 43 participants Whitley, N. Sunbelt EXPO; SmRum Nutrition, Health, Production; 60+ participants, Oct 17-19, 2017 Whitley, N. Georgia National Fair, Sheep/Goat Story and Market Goat Show, Oct 8-18, 2017 Whitley, N. JFCP/Beg Farmers FAMACHA/IPM, etc. Hands-On session 16 participants, Sept 22, 2017 Whitley, N. Small/Ruminant Production, Seeds of Prosperity, FVSU, Aug 25, 2017, 20 participants Whitley, N. Reproduction in Goats, Carroll County, Aug 4, 2017, 16 participants Whitley, N. Fecal egg counting workshop, June 27, 2017, 14 participants Whitley, N. Small Ruminant Health (and sericea lespedeza) Workshop, June 20, 2017, 29 attendees     Louisiana State University  Journal articles Notter, D.R., Burke, J.M., Miller, J.E., Morgan, J.L.M., 2017. Factors affecting fecal egg counts in peri-parturient Katahdin ewes and their lambs. J Anim Sci 95, 103-112. Notter, D.R., Burke, J.M., Miller, J.E., Morgan, J.L.M., 2017. Association between FAMACHA Scores and Fecal Egg Counts in Katahdin Lambs. J Anim Sci 95, 1118-1123.   Proceedings/Abstracts Miller, J.E., Kelly, V.E., Taupier, R., Burke, J.M., 2017. In vivo efficacy of a novel compound on gastrointestinal nematode infection in lambs. Proc USDA SCC-81. Ngere, L., Burke, J.M., Notter, D.R., Morgan, J.L.M., Miller, J.E., 2017. Genetic parameters for fecal egg count and body weight in Katahdin lambs. Ann Meeting Amer Soc Anim Sci Southern Section, 1. Burke, J.M., Notter, D.R., Miller, J.E., 2017. Sire’s estimated breeding value (EBV) for fecal egg count (FEC) influences BW, FEC, and anemia measures of offspring in Katahdin sheep. Ann Meeting Amer Soc Anim Sci Southern Section, 52.   Michigan State University Articles Redden. R., E. Sanko, R. Ehrhardt and C. Hiemke.  2017. Seasonality of the United States Lamb Industry.  White paper prepared for the American Lamb Board.  Submitted April 2018. Ehrhardt, R.A. 2017. Ensuring adequate colostrum is key to improving the health and welfare of small ruminants at birth.  Proceedings of the MSU Small Ruminant Health Symposium. East Lansing, MI. Ehrhardt, R.A. and Recktenwald E.B. 2018.  “Guide to marketing to the non-traditional lamb market in the upper Midwest”.  Prepared for the American Lamb Board. Ehrhardt, R.A. and Recktenwald E.B. 2018.  Cost of production calculator for the non-traditional lamb market.  Prepared for the American Lamb board. Ehrhardt, R.A. and Recktenwald E.B. 2017. .  “An Introduction to Accelerated Lamb Production.”  Video produced with Premier1 for the American Sheep Industry Association Let’s Grow Program.   <a href="https://mail.campusad.msu.edu/owa/redir.aspx?C=iYt8JOfAx3RTXxEJAp5WqLKRpQGLgs2rUZomLBaDtkE0NHcPBUjVCA..&URL=https%3a%2f%2furldefense.proofpoint.com%2fv2%2furl%3fu%3dhttps-3A__youtu.be_-5FEiVt8WlyhM%26d%3dDwMFAw%26c%3dnE__W8dFE-shTxStwXtp0A%26r%3dhlO_kXtl6DisSwBms9ApiwmkjNN0q4G2ilq7gbDfiXM%26m%3d7Pb58BLvt82usTVqH4bfWpxqyRzKL1GtgAeuzdQL2gc%26s%3dwRXJZX5lmkzeudCPriv64uOiQx4rXgBbwrvqIhmaa_c%26e%3d">https://youtu.be/_EiVt8WlyhM</a>   Montana State University (2017 & 2018) Articles Knuth, R. M., W. C. Stewart, J. A. Boles, C. M. Page, A. F. Williams, and T. W. Murphy. 2018. Evaluating the effect of South African Meat Merino breeding on pre and postweaning growth, feedlot performance, carcass traits, and wool characteristics in an extensive production setting. Transl. Anim. Sci. doi:10.1093/tas/txy036 Murphy, T. W., W. C. Stewart, and J. B. Taylor. 2018. Factors affecting ewe somatic cell count and its relationship with lamb weaning weight in extensively managed flocks. Transl. Anim. Sci. doi:10.1093/tas/txy031 Murphy, T. W., W. C. Stewart, C. G. Smith, and J. B. Taylor. 2018. Effects of late gestation shearing on body weight gain, feed intake, and plasma metabolite concentrations in Rambouillet ewes housed outdoors during winter. (Submitted to Animal, awaiting reviews). Murphy, T.W., Y. M. Berger, P. W. Holman, M. Baldin, R.L. Burgett, and D. L. Thomas. 2018. Genetic and non-genetic factors influencing the live weight of artificially-reared lambs. (Submitted to Small Ruminant Research Journal, accepted minor revisions). Page, C. M., T. W. Murphy, M. L. Van Emon, J. G. P. Bowman, S. A. Wyffels, and W. C. Stewart. 2018. Serum trace mineral concentrations in weaned Montana ram lambs and their relationship with water quality characteristics. (Submitted to Professional Animal Scientist, accepted minor revisions). Walker, J. W., W. C. Stewart, R. Pope, S. Spear, M. Ebert, and T. W. Murphy. 2018. Evaluation                 of mean fiber diameter measurements by FibreLux micron meter and OFDA 2000 in              Texas and Intermountain west wool. Small Rum. Res. 159:31-37 DelCurto, T., T. Murphy, and S. Moreaux. 2017. Demographics and long-term outlook for western US beef, sheep, and horse industries and their importance for the forage industry. Proc. West. Alfalfa & Forage Symp. Reno, Nevada, U.S.A. Murphy, T. W., Y. M. Berger, P. W. Holman, M. Baldin, R.L. Burgett, and D. L. Thomas. 2017. Estimates of genetic parameters, genetic trends, and inbreeding in a crossbred dairy sheep research flock in the United States. J. Anim. Sci. 2017.95:4300-4309. Murphy, T. W., Y. M. Berger, P. W. Holman, M. Baldin, R.L. Burgett, and D. L. Thomas. 2017. Factors affecting ewe performance in a crossbred dairy sheep research flock in the  U.S. J. Anim. Sci. 2017.95:1892-1899. Page, C. M., I. McGregor, M. L. Van Emon, T. W. Murphy, C. K. Larson, J. G. Berardinelli, and W. C. Stewart. 2017. Effects of zinc source and dietary concentration on zinc status, growth performance, and wool characteristics in developing rams. Proc. West. Sect. Am.         Soc. Anim. Sci. 68:136-140. Stewart, W. C., T. W. Murphy, D. R. Notter, M. R. Mousel, G. S. Lewis, K. A. Leymaster, and J. B. Taylor. 2017. Wool characteristics of Rambouillet, Polypay, and Romanov-White Dorper x Rambouillet ewes in an extensive rangeland production system. Proc. West. Sect. Am. Soc. Anim. Sci. 68:175-179.   South Dakota State University Publications Crane, A.R., Redden, R.R., Crouse, M.S., Kirsch, J.D., Borowicz, P.P., Held, J.E., Swanson, K.C., Schauer, S.C. (2018) Influence of distillers’s dried grains with solubles on ram lamb growth and reproductive traits. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 96, Issue 4, p. 1484-1494. Petzel, E.A., Smart, A.J., Benoit, S.P., Selman, S.L., Bailey, E.A., Beck, E.E., Walker, J.A., Wright, C.L., Held, J.E., Brake, D.W. (2018). Estimates of diet selection in cattle grazing cornstalk residues by measurement of chemical composition and near infrared reflectance spectroscopy of diet samples. J. Anim. Sci. Vol 96, Issue 5, p. 1914-1928. Reiners, J. N., Held, J. E., Qiao, Q., Reza, K. M., Brake, D. (2017). Lysine bioavailability among 2 lipid-coated lysine products after exposure to silage. Translational Animal Science, 1, 311-319. Reiners, J. N., Held, J. E., Wright, C. L., Brake, D. (2018). Lysine retained among two lipid coated lysine products after exposure to alfalfa- or corn-silage with different amounts of acidity. Journal of Dairy Science. Vol. 101. Issue 6, p. 5159-5165.   Abstracts Anderson, P.P., Smerchek, D.T., Held, J.E., Kolthoff, A.R. Stenberg, T., Perry, G.A. 2018. Influence of post-pubertal ram semen quality on ewe conception. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 96 - #508.  Midwest Section Mtg. March 12-14, 2018. Undergraduate Poster Competition. Petzel, E.A., Smart, A.J., Benoit, S.P., Selman, S.L., Bailey, E.A., Beck, E.E., Walker, J.A., Wright, C.L., Held, J.E., Brake, D.W. (2018). Estimates of botanical composition of diets from analyses of chemical components or near-infrared spectroscopy among cattle fed binary mixtures of cornstalk and non-cornstalk residue. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 96 - #414.  Midwest Section Mtg. March 12-14, 2018. Smerchek, D.T., Anderson, P.P., Held, J.E., Kolthoff, A.R., Stenberg, T., Perry, G.A. (2018) Evaluate ram semen quality characteristics between subsequent ejaculates. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 96 - #507.  Midwest Section Mtg. March 12-14, 2018. Undergraduate Poster Competition.   Conference Papers or Posters Presented, Invited Lectures Held, J. E. (Professor), Morrical, D. (Professor - Iowa State), ASI Industry Tour, "2017 ASI Young Entrepreneurs Tour," American Sheep Industry Assn, Watertown, SD, July 18, 2017. Held, J. E. (2018). Identifying and Treating Common Ewe Diseases. Pipestone Lamb and Wool Program – Lambing Time Short Course. February 9, 2018. Held, J. E. (2018). Flock feeding management strategies. Univ. of Wisconsin.-Extension Educational Program. Wausau, WI, April 25, 2018. Held, J.E. (2017). The 2017 South Dakota Master Lamb Producers Awards Program Highlights. SDSGA Annual Convention September 30, 2016. Rapid City, SD Held, J. E. (2017). SDSU sheep research and extension programming highlights. SDSGA Annual Convention September 29 and 30, 2017. Brookings, SD Held, J. E. (2018). Guidelines for modern sheep nutritional practices in the Midwest. Univ. of Wisconsin-Extension. Professional improvement training for livestock extension agents. Madison, WI, April 26, 2018.   Texas A&M AgriLife Research, San Angelo Publications (journal articles, abstracts, book chapters, extension, outreach) *indicates a graduate student. Whitney, T. R. 2017. Ground Juniperus pinchotii and urea in supplements fed to Rambouillet ewe lambs: I. Feedlot growth traits, blood serum parameters, and fecal characteristics. J. Anim. Sci. 95:3676−3686. doi: 10.2527/jas2017.1419 Whitney, T. R., J. L. Glasscock, J. P. Muir, W. C. Stewart, and E. J. Scholljegerdes. 2017. Substituting ground woody plants for cottonseed hulls in lamb feedlot diets: growth performance, blood serum chemistry, and rumen fluid parameters. J. Anim. Sci. 95:1−14. doi: 10.2527/jas2017.1649 in press *Stewart, W. C., Whitney, T. R., E. J. Scholljegerdes, D. M. Hallford, J. W. Walker, R. P. Adams, and H. D. Naumann. 2017. Effects of feeding ground redberry juniper (Juniperus pinchotii) to gestating ewes on pre- and postpartum performance, serum metabolites and hormones, milk fatty acid composition and progeny preweaning performance. J. Anim. Sci. 95:4113−4123. doi: 10.2527/jas2016.1090 Ishaq, L., C. J. Yeoman, and T. R. Whitney. 2017. Ground Juniperus pinchotii and urea in supplements fed to Rambouillet ewe lambs. Part 2: Ewe lamb rumen microbial communities. J. Anim. Sci. doi: 10.2527/jas2017.1731 Kerth, C. R., K. R. Wall, S. B. Smith, T. R. Whitney, J. L. Glasscock, and J. T. Sawyer. 2018. Substituting ground woody plants for cottonseed hulls in lamb feedlot diets: Carcass characteristics, adipose tissue fatty acid composition, and sensory panel traits. J. Anim. Sci. 96:487−497  doi: 10.1093/jas/sky024 *Glasscock, J. L., T. R. Whitney, J. R. Roper, A. R. Holmes, S. G. Marrs, W. C. Stewart, and E. J. Scholljegerdes. 2017. Substituting ground woody plants for cottonseed hulls in goat feedlot diets: growth performance and blood serum chemistry. J. Anim. Sci. doi 10.1093/jas/sky159   Published Abstracts, Proceedings, Posters, and Oral Presentations Whitney, T. R. 2017. Underutilized feed resources. Texas A&M AgriLife Research and US Forest Service Conference: Strategic Supplementation Strategies to Enhance Texas Rangelands and Reduce Livestock Production Costs. May 12. Kerrville, TX. Oral Presentation. Whitney, T. R. 2017. Economic feasibility of using ground juniper in livestock diets. Texas A&M AgriLife Research and US Forest Service Conference: Strategic Supplementation Strategies to Enhance Texas Rangelands and Reduce Livestock Production Costs. May 12. Kerrville, TX. Oral Presentation. Whitney T. R., J. T. Sawyer, and C. Hartz. 2017. Substituting ground juniper for ground alfalfa hay in steer feedlot diets: growth and blood serum characteristics. West. Sec. Amer. Soc. Anim. Sci. annual meeting. June 20 - 23. Fargo, ND. Proceedings and Oral Presentation by Whitney. J. Anim. Sci. 68:239−243. Whitney, T. R. 2017. Economic and marketing opportunities for ground aspen wood to be used as a livestock feed ingredient. Industry meeting with Univ. of Minnesota Faculty, Marth Companies and Great Lakes Renewable Energy, Inc. Aug. 14. Oral Presentation. Invited. Whitney, T. R. 2017. Nutritional challenges of accelerated lambing, lamb feedlot nutrition, and enhancing rumen function. Zinpro, Inc.: joint meeting with C.P. Pokphand Co. (Vice President, Adirek Sripratak). Aug. 16. Oral Presentation. Invited. Whitney, T. R. 2017. Challenges vs. opportunities of various supplemental feeds. 44th Annual Texas A&M AgriLife Sheep and Goat Field Day. Aug. 18. San Angelo, TX. Oral Presentation. Invited. Whitney, T. R. 2017. Using unique feed supplements and ingredients in livestock diets. 2nd Annual Texas A&M AgriLife Expo. Aug. 18. San Angelo, TX. Oral Presentation. Invited. Whitney, T. R. 2017. Food Use Authorization Request: Use of ground redberry and blueberry juniper as a ruminant livestock feed ingredient. Submitted to and approved by the U.S. FDA.   University of Maryland Abstracts Schoenian, S., Semler, J., Gordon, D., Bennett, M, and D. O’Brien. (2017). Using copper oxide wire particles to reduce barber pole worm infections in meat goats. Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents. In proceedings: 39. Schoenian, S. and J. Semler. (2017). Using webinars to educate sheep and goat producers.  Annual Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents. In proceedings: 46-47. Schoenian, S., Gordon, D., Semler, J., Bennett, M, and D. O’Brien. (2017). Western Maryland Pasture Based Meat Goat Performance Test. National Meeting and Professional Improvement Conference of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents. In proceedings:  113-114.   Presentations Schoenian, S. Adventures in Sheep & Goat Farming. Invited talk at Indianhead Sheep & Goat Association Shepherd’s Clinic. Rice Lake, WI. 2017. Schoenian, S. Can you make money with a small flock or herd? Invited talk at Indianhead Sheep & Goat Association Shepherd’s Clinic. Rice Lake, WI. 2017. Schoenian, S. Raising your own replacements. Invited talk at Indianhead Sheep & Goat Association Shepherd’s Clinic. Rice Lake, WI. 2017. Schoenian, S. What’s new with internal parasite control?. Invited talk at Indianhead Sheep & Goat Association Shepherd’s Clinic. Rice Lake, WI. 2017. Schoenian, S. Current recommendations for controlling internal parasites in small ruminants.. Invited talk at Mid-Atlantic States Bovine Conference. Hagerstown, MD. 2017. Schoenian, S. Current recommendations for controlling internal parasites in small ruminants. Invited talk at New River Valley Sheep & Goat Club annual meeting. Pulaski, VA. 2017. Schoenian, S. Enhancing the survival of lambs and kids. Invited talk at New River Valley Sheep & Goat Club annual meeting. Pulaski, VA. 2017. Schoenian, S. Feeding managing the pregnant female. Invited talk at New River Valley Sheep & Goat Club annual meeting. Pulaski, VA. 2017. Schoenian, S. What can we learn from Australia and New Zealand?  Invited talk at New River Valley Sheep & Goat Club annual meeting. Pulaski, VA. 2017. Schoenian, S. Using combination treatments to deworm sheep. Invited talk to Western Pennsylvania Sheep Association. Somerset, PA. 2017. Schoenian, S. The next step in performance testing. Invited talk at Bluegrass Performance Invitational Sale. Frankfurt, KY.  2017. Schoenian, S. 10 things every goat producer should know. Invited talk (webinar) for Dakota Goat Association Statewide Conference. Delivered electronically. 2017. Schoenian, S. Parasites and goats. Invited talk for Dakota Goat Association Statewide Conference. Delivered electronically. 2017. Schoenian, S. Management tools for flock and herd improvement. Invited talk at 2nd annual Missouri Sheep & Goat Symposium. Columbia, MO. 2017. Schoenian, S. Fine-tuning breeding animal selection for your farm. Invited talk at 2nd annual Missouri Sheep & Goat Symposium. Columbia, MO. 2017. Schoenian, S. Internal parasite update. Invited presentation for Meat Sheep Alliance of Florida. Ocala, FL. 2017. Schoenian, S. Small Flock Management. Invited presentation for Meat Sheep Alliance of Florida. Ocala, FL. 2017. Schoenian, S. 10 things every goat producer should do. Invited webinar for American Goat Federation. 2017. Schoenian, S. Selecting replacement ewes and culling underperforming ewes. Invited webinar for American Sheep Industry Association’s Let’s Grow Program. 2017. Schoenian, S. Developing weaning programs for your Katahdin flock. Invited presentation for Katahdin Hair Sheep International. Crawford, IN. 2017. Schoenian, S. Combination treatments: high time to implement. Invited presentation for Katahdin Hair Sheep International. Crawford, IN. 2017. Schoenian, S. To deworm or not to deworm: on-farm decision-making tools for deciding who to treat and when. Delmarva Small Ruminant Conference: All Worms All Day. Dover, DE. 2017. Schoenian, S. Sometimes you’ve got to shove a drug down their throat: proper use of dewormers. Delmarva Small Ruminant Conference: All Worms All Day. Dover, DE. 2017. Schoenian, S., N. Whitley, and D. O’Brien.  Determining anthelmintic resistance on commercial sheep farms in the southeastern US. Annual meeting and Professional Improvement Conference of the National Association of County Agricultural Agents. Salt Lake City, UT. 2017. Schoenian, S. Nutrient requirements of sheep and goats. Invited presentation for Southern Maryland Meats. Upper Marlboro, MD. 2017.   USDA, ARS, Dale Bumpers Small Farms Research Center Articles Notter, D.R., Ngere, L., Burke, J.M., Morgan, J.L.M., Miller, J.E., 2018. Genetic parameters for ewe reproductive performance and peri-parturient fecal egg counts and their genetic relationships with lamb body weights and fecal egg counts in Katahdin sheep. J. Anim. Sci. 96, 1579-1589. Ngere, L., Burke, J.M., Morgan, J.L.M., Miller, J.E., Notter, D.R., 2017. Genetic parameters for fecal egg counts and their relationship with body weights in Katahdin lambs. J. Anim. Sci.96, 1590-1599. Ngere, L., Burke, J.M., Notter, D.R., Morgan, J.L.M., 2017. Variance components for direct and maternal effects on body weights of Katahdin lambs. J. Anim. Sci. 95, 3396–3405. Hamilton, T.N., Terrill, T.H., Kommuru, D.S., Rivers, A., Mosjidis, J.A., Miller, J.E., Drake, C., Mueller-Harvey, I., Burke, J.M., 2017. Effect of supplemental sericea lespedeza pellets on internal parasite infection and nutritional status of grazing goats. J. Agric. Sci. Tech. 334-344. Spangler, G.L., Rosen, B.D., Babatunde, I., Hanotte, O., Kim, E.-S., Sonstegard, T.S., Burke, J.M., Morgan, J.L.M., Notter, D.R., Van Tassell, C.P. Whole genome structural analysis of Caribbean hair sheep reveals quantitative link to West African ancestry. PLOS One. Doi.org/10.137/journal.pone.0179021. Notter, D.R., Burke, J.M., Miller, J.E., Morgan, J.L.M., 2017. Association between FAMACHA scores and fecal egg counts in Katahdin lambs. J. Anim. Sci. 95, 1118-1123. Ngere, L., Burke, J.M., Herring, A.D., Sanders, J.O., Craig, T.M., VanWyk, J., Riley, D.G., 2017. Utilization of year round data in the estimation of genetic parameters for internal parasite resistance traits in Dorper sheep. Sm. Rum. Res. 151, 5-10. Muir, J.P., Terrill, T.H., Burke, J.M., Mosjidis, J.A., Luginbuhl, J.-M., Miller, J.E., Coleman, S.W., 2016. Harvest regimen changes sericea lespedeza condensed tannin, fiber, and protein concentrations. Grassland Sci. (In Press). Muir, J.P., Terrill, T.H., Mosjidis, J.A., Luginbuhl, J.-M., Miller, J.E., Burke, J.M. 2017. Season progression, ontogenesis and environment affect Lespedeza cuneata herbage condensed tannin, fiber and crude protein content. Crop Sci. 57, 515-524. Notter, D.R., Burke, J.M., Miller, J.E., Morgan, J.L.M., 2017. Factors affecting fecal egg counts in peri-parturient Katahdin ewes and their lambs. J. Anim. Sci. 95, 103-112.   Abstracts Acharya, R.S., Fitting, E., Burke, J., Joshi, N., 2018. Supporting pollinator communities by floral enhancement within livestock pasture ecosystem. Southeastern Branch Entomol. Soc. Amer., Orlando, FL (Abstr.). France, M.M., Kelly, V.E., Miller, J.E., Burke, J.M., McKenzie, K.M., 2018. Efficacy of compound X (Bedoukian Research) on reducing fecal egg count in lambs. J. Anim. Sci. 96 (E-Suppl. 1), 71 (Abstr.). <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/sky027.133">https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/sky027.133</a> Burke, J.M., Pickett, A.T., Howell, B., Wood, E.L., Acharya, M., Miller, J.E., 2018. Examining relationships between production and gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) measures in organic and conventionally reared Katahdin lambs. J. Anim. Sci. 96 (E-Suppl. 1), 71-72 (Abstr.). <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/sky027.134">https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/sky027.134</a> Ngere, L., Burke, J.M., Miller, J.E., Morgan, J.L.M., Notter, D.R., 2018. Genetic parameters for ewe reproductive performance and peri-parturient fecal egg counts and their genetic relationships with lamb body weights and fecal egg counts in Katahdin sheep. J. Anim. Sci. 96 (E-Suppl. 1), 70 (Abstr.). <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/sky027.131">https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/sky027.131</a> Wright, S., Arsi, K., Manning, L., Donoghue, A.M., Hale, M., Spencer, T., O’Gorman, M., Gold, M., Fanatico, A.C., English, H., Burke, J.M., Donoghue, D.J., 2018. Armed to farm: Soldiering the success of military veterans in new poultry, livestock and agroforestry enterprises. Southern SAWG, Memphis, TN, January 2018. Acharya, R.S., Fitting, E., Burke, J., Joshi, N., 2017. Development of native pollinator habitat within livestock pasture. Entomol. Soc. Amer. Ann. Mtg, Logan, UT, November 2017. Purdy, P.H., Spiller, S.F., McGuire, E., McGuire, K., Koepke, K. Stobart, R.H., Burke, J.M., Acharya, M., Beemer, T., Moss, G.E., Lake, S., Blackburn, H.D., 2017. The fertility achieved with nonsurgical AI and frozen-thawed ram sperm is influenced by the estrous synchronization protocol, semen cryopreservation diluent, and age and breed of the sheep. Biol. Reprod. (Abstr.).   <a name="_Toc232356862"></a>University of Rhode Island Articles Anthelmintic efficacy of cranberry vine extracts on ovine Haemonchus contortus. 2018. Barone, C.D.*, Zajac, A.M., Manzi-Smith, L.A., Howell, A.B., Reed, J.D., Krueger, C.G., Petersson, K.H. Vet  Parasitol. 253:122-129.   <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vetpar.2018.02.016">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vetpar.2018.02.016</a>   Utah Agricultural Experiment Station Publications Montes-Sánchez, J.J. and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Understanding medusahead (Taeniatherum caput-medusae ssp. asperum) low intake and palatability through in vitro digestibility and fermentation kinetics. Animal. 1-9. Heroy, K.Y., St. Clair, S., Burritt, E.A. and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Plant community chemical composition influences trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides) intake by sheep. Journal of Chemical Ecology 43:817-830. Montes-Sánchez*, J.J., Van Miegroet, H., and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Effects of energy supplementation and time on use of medusahead by grazing ewes and their lambs. Rangeland Ecology and Management. 70:380-387. Montes-Sánchez*, J.J. and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Effects of early experience and alternative feeds on medusahead (Taeniatherum caput-medusae ssp. asperum) intake by sheep. Applied Animal Behaviour Science. 188:9-16.   Synthesis Papers Villalba, J.J. 2017. Psychobiology of ingestive behavior of herbivores. Proceedings of the X° Congress ALEPRyCS, 2017. Revista Argentina de Produccion Animal 37:17-22. Gregorini, P., Villalba, J.J., Chilibroste, P., and Provenza, F.D. 2017. Grazing management: Setting the table, designing the menu and influencing the diet. Animal Production Science. 57:1248-1268. Villalba, J.J., Costes-Thiré, M*., and Ginane, C. 2017. Phytochemicals in animal health; diet selection and trade-offs between costs and benefits. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society. 76:113-121.   Book Chapters MacAdam, J.W. and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Beneficial effects of temperate forage legumes that contain condensed tannins. In: C. Matthew (ed) Forage Plant Ecophysiology, MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. pp. 31-43.   Scientific and Outreach Oral Presentations. Villalba, J.J. 2017. Psychobiology of ingestive behavior of herbivores. X Latin American Conference of Specialists on Small Ruminants and South-American Camelids. Punta Arenas, Chile. May 2-4, 2017. Villalba, J.J. 2017. Ruminants as architects for the management of natural landscapes: an adaptive look to climate change. Extensive Livestock Production in the XXI Century: Foraging Behavior is Sheep as an Adaptation Tool to Climate Change. National Institute of Agricultural Research, Punta Arenas, Chile. December 14, 2017. Villalba, J.J. 2017. The Psychobiology of Diet Selection in Ruminants: From Pens to Landscapes. Universidad Autonoma de Yucatan, Mexico. Seminar Series. November 29, 2017. Villalba, J.J. 2017. Foraging Behavior as a Tool to Improve Animal Productivity and Welfare. Keynote for the Agricultural Fair of the State, Xmatkuil, Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. November 27, 2017. Lagrange, S.P., Beauchemin, K., MacAdam, J.W. and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Effects of grazing diverse combinations of sainfoin, birdsfoot trefoil, and alfalfa on beef cow performance and environmental impacts. The American Society of Animal Science (ASAS) and the Canadian Society of Animal Science (CSAS) Joint Annual Meeting. Baltimore, Maryland. July 8-12, 2017. Stewart, E.K., Beauchemin, K., MacAdam, J.W. and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Environmental impacts from cattle consuming tannin-containing hays. The American Society of Animal Science (ASAS) and the Canadian Society of Animal Science (CSAS) Joint Annual Meeting. Baltimore, Maryland. July 8-12, 2017. Stonecipher, C.A., Spackman, C., Panter, K., and Villalba, J.J. 2018. Glyphosate as a Tool to Increase Livestock Consumption of Medusahead on Annual Grass Invaded Rangelands. 71st Annual Meeting of the Society for Range Management. Sparks, NV. January 28-February 2, 2018. Spackman, C., Panter, K., Stonecipher, C., and Villalba, J.J. 2018. Grazing rotations on restored land as a new tool for medusahead control. 71st Annual Meeting of the Society for Range Management. Sparks, NV. January 28-February 2, 2018. Taylor, J., Veblen, K., Thacker, E., and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Energy- and protein-based supplements improve decadent sagebrush use by elk. 70th Annual Meeting of the Society for Range Management. St. George, UT. January 29-February 2, 2017. Bateman, T., and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Developing a model that predicts the continuous fractional cover of medusahead in the channeled scablands of eastern Washington using remote sensing techniques. 70th Annual Meeting of the Society for Range Management. St. George, UT. January 29-February 2, 2017. Spackman, C., Panter, K., Stonecipher, C., and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Glyphosate application and cattle grazing: An integrated approach to control medusahead. 70th Annual Meeting of the Society for Range Management. St. George, UT. January 29-February 2, 2017. Heroy, K.Y, Burritt, E.A., StClair, S., and Villalba, J.J. 2017. Nutritional state influences trembling aspen (Populus tremuloides) intake by sheep. 70th Annual Meeting of the Society for Range Management. St. George, UT. January 29-February 2, 2017.   Virginia State University Articles Nartea, T., Wildeus, S., Lee, J., O’Brien, D.J.  2017. Breed and supplementation influence on consumer ratings of ground meat from pasture-raised lamb. J. Extension 55 (6):6RIB2   Abstracts Tripp, C., Lee, J.H., Kafle, D., Discua, A., Wildeus, S.  2017. Quality of fresh lamb from pasture-raised sheep as influenced by highly digestible fiber containing agro-byproducts. Proc. ARD 18th Biannual Research Symposium, p.51. Fitchett, A., Wildeus. S. 2017.  Pre-weaning performance of purebred and crossbred hair sheep lambs born during different season. Proc. ARD 18th Biannual Research Symposium, p. 172. Bailey, M., Wildeus. S. 2017. Season and breed effects on pregnancy rate and litter size in landrace hair sheep ewes under accelerated mating. Proc. ARD 18th Biannual Research Symposium, p. 176 Wildeus. S., O’Brien, D.J. 2017.  Deploying a mobile reproduction lab: Meat the Sperminator. Proc. ARD 18th Biannual Research Symposium, p. 257. Wildeus, S., O’Brien, D. 2017. Growth and FAMACHA scores in purebred and terminal sire crossbred lambs produced from landrace hair sheep under an accelerated mating system. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 95, Suppl. 4:332, doi:10.2527/asasann.2017.680 Kafle, D., Lee, J. H, Wildeus, S., Discua, A., Tripp, C.  2017. Quality of fresh lamb from pasture-raised purebred and crossbred hair sheep lambs gradually removed from soy hull supplementation before harvest. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 95, Suppl. 4:332-333, doi:10.2527/asasann.2017.681 Kafle, D., Lee, J. H., Wildeus, S., Tripp, C., Discua, A. 2017.  Fatty acid composition of different fat depots from purebred and crossbred hair sheep lambs gradually removed from soy hull supplementation before harvest. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 95, Suppl. 4:333. doi:10.2527/asasann.2017.682 O’Brien, D., Wildeus, S., Wright, D. L., Weaver, A. R., Greiner, S. P.  2017.  Effect of sire breed on pregnancy rate of Katahdin ewes after liquid semen vaginal artificial insemination. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 95, Suppl. 4:221, doi:10.2527/asasann.2017.450 Schoenian, S., J. Semler, D. Gordon, M. Bennett, D. O’Brien. Using Copper Oxide Wire Particles to Reduce Barber Pole Worm Infection in Meat Goat Bucklings. National Association of Agricultural County Agents. July 2017. Schoenian, S., D. O’Brien, and N. Whitley. Determining Anthelmintic Resistance on Sheep Farms in the Southeastern US. National Association of Agricultural County Agents. July 2017. Escobar, E.N., E. Kassa, D. O’Brien and H. Taylor. 2017. The induction and synchronization of estrus in sheep during the fall and late spring (season and out of season) using controlled internal drug release (CIDR) devices on Delmarva.  J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 95, Suppl. 4:39, doi:10.2527/asasann.2017.450 Escobar, E.N., E. Kassa, D. J. O’Brien and H. Taylor.  2017. The induction and synchronization of estrus in meat goats during the fall and late spring (season and out-of season) using controlled internal drug release (CIDR) devices on Delmarva. J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 95, Suppl. 4:128, doi:10.2527/asasann.2017.450     Michigan State University Ehrhardt, R.A.  “Improve parasite management with combination drug therapy”. 2017. Michigan Shepherd News. Ehrhardt R.A. “Understanding how to treat and prevent Polioencephalomalacia (PEM) in sheep and goats.” 2017.  Michigan Shepherd’s News. Ehrhardt R.A.  “Understanding and preventing ketosis/pregnancy toxemia in sheep.”  2017. Michigan Shepherd’s News Recktenwald E.B. and R.A. Ehrhardt  “Understanding the Ethnic Lamb Market in Michigan: Arab American edition.”  2017.  Michigan Shepherd’s News.   Invited presentations: Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author, keynote address). “Maximizing resource use by extending the lambing season.” 2017. Iowa sheep day educational program.  Ames, Iowa. Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author). “Logistics of grazing cover crops and crop residue”. 2017.  Iowa sheep day educational program.  Ames, Iowa. Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author). “Fall goat roundtable program.” 2017. Michigan Dairy Goat Association Fall Field Day. Charlotte, MI. Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author). “Precision feeding of sheep and goats”, “Male fertility management in small ruminants”, and “Basics of parasite management for sheep and goats”.   Northwest Michigan Small Ruminant Management Series.  2017.  Big Rapids, MI Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author). 2017. Ontario Large Flock Operators Annual Educational Program.  Walkerton, Ontario  (presented electronically via webinar format).  Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author). “A practical guide for selection in commercial sheep production”.  2018.  North Country Shepherds Winter Management Program, Canton, NY (presented electronically via webinar format).  Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author). “Parasite management in commercial sheep farms in the Great Lakes region of North America. Webinar prepared for the Western Ontario Lamb Producers Association.  March 2018. Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author). “Feeding and management to improve reproductive efficiency throughout the year”. Webinar prepared for the Pipestone Lamb and Wool Program, April 2018.  Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author). “Understanding Wool Growth”. Michigan Shepherds Weekend, 2018. Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author). “What can we learn about optimizing sheep management and marketing from the Spartan Sheep Production Model?” Michigan Shepherds Weekend, 2018. Ehrhardt, R. A. (Presenter and author). “Sheep production innovations in Michigan in 2017”.  Michigan Shepherds Weekend. 2018. Recktenwald, E.B. (Presenter and author). “Using the Spartan Sheep Production Model to Analyze Cost of Lamb Production in Several Production Scenarios”. Michigan Shepherds Weekend , 2018.  Recktenwald, E. B. (Presenter and author). “Exploring non-traditional or ethnic marketing opportunities”.  Buckeye Shepherd Symposium, Dec. 2017 Recktenwald, E. B. (Presenter and author). “Examining the profitability of several sheep production scenarios with a simulation model”. Buckeye Shepherd Symposium, Dec. 2017

Impact Statements

Virginia State University The use of Dorset rams as terminal sire for land race hair sheep (Barbados Blackbelly and St. Croix) in a forage-based, accelerated mating system increased growth rates of crossbred compared to purebred lambs when supplemented on pasture, but not when grazing only in spring and early summer. Indicators of gastrointestinal parasitism were more pronounced in crossbred than purebred only when no supplement was provided while grazing. Use of terminal sires during the transitional breeding periods under accelerated mating (July) significantly decreased pregnancy rates compared to purebred mating.

Date of Annual Report: 09/06/2019

Report Information

Annual Meeting Dates: 06/02/2019 - 06/04/2019
Period the Report Covers: 06/01/2018 - 06/01/2019