Extension Communications
3614 Administrative Services Building
Ames, Iowa 50011-3614
(515) 294-9915
7/3/02
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contacts:
Dan Morrical, Animal Science, (515) 294-0847, morrical@iastate.edu
Jean McGuire, Continuing Education and Communication Services, (515) 294-7033,
jmcguire@iastate.edu
Producers Invited to ISU Sheep Field Days
AMES, Iowa - Sheep producers are invited to attend one of two Iowa State University (ISU) summer field days. The primary focus of these free programs is breeding season management. Suelee Robbe, DVM, Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, ISU, will demonstrate how to evaluate rams for breeding soundness.
Ram infertility appears to be a greater problem in Iowa than previously thought. In 2001, more than half the rams tested were classified as unacceptable. Poor ram fertility can cause lambing seasons to be strung out and result in fewer lambs are born per ewe. Dan Morrical, ISU Extension sheep specialist, will also discuss management techniques to enhance next spring's lamb crop.
The meetings will be held:
Wednesday, July 10, 6:30 p.m., Premier Sheep Supply, Washington, Iowa;
and
Monday, July 15, 6:30 p.m., McNay Research Farm, Chariton, Iowa .
Premier Sheep Supply is located south of Washington on County Road 300, just off Highway 1 to the east about three miles.
To reach the McNay Research Farm drive 4 miles south on Highway 65 from the intersection of highways 65 and 34. Then drive 2.5 miles east on a gravel road. Finally turn north and drive .25 mile. The headquarters is on the east side of the road.
The Iowa Sheep and Wool Promotion Board is providing partial funding for these educational events.
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Extension programs are available to all without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability.