By Scout Nelson
Planning farm activities in advance can help reduce stress and improve success for sheep and goat producers. To support better herd and flock management, North Dakota State University and the University of Minnesota Extension will host an educational sheep and goat calendar webinar.
The webinar will take place on December 22 at 7 p.m. and is open to farmers, 4-H members, agricultural professionals, and anyone interested in sheep or goat production. The session will focus on building a simple yearly calendar to manage routine care and preventive health tasks.
Experts explain that planning ahead helps producers stay organized during busy and stressful times of the year, especially during lambing and kidding seasons. A clear plan also helps producers meet their goals, improve animal survival, and strengthen resistance to disease.
During the webinar, Dr. Angela Varnum, a veterinarian with the University of Minnesota Extension, will explain how to organize herd health tasks throughout the year. She will share research-based guidance on when to focus on breeding, feeding, health checks, and hoof care. These practices support healthier animals and smoother farm operations.
Travis Hoffman, an Extension sheep specialist with both NDSU and UMN, will also share insights. He explains that many farm tasks repeat every year, and placing them on a calendar can reduce last-minute stress. Organizing tasks by month or season helps producers stay prepared and improve overall farm success.
Registration is required to attend the webinar. After registering, participants will receive a Zoom link by email. Those who cannot attend the live session will receive a recorded version afterward.
This webinar offers a simple and practical way for sheep and goat producers to improve planning, protect animal health, and manage farm responsibilities more effectively throughout the year.
Photo Credit: istock-heebyj
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock, Goats & Sheep