Progress 04/15/21 to 04/01/25
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audiences for this program were limited resource producers, extension educators, and rural dwellers within the State of Alabama. The technology transfer component of this program included publications (M.Sc. Thesis, poster presentations, documentation and monographs for sustainable livestock production and improving meat quality. Also, a wide range of demonstration projects, farm tours, group meetings, seminars, applied research, and other outreach activities were conducted to meet the needs of the targeted audiences. Consequently, an attempt was made to comprehensively evaluate a number of Boer and Kiko goats, including a demonstration of their economic merit and performance characteristics and to make this information publicly available. This Pasture Based Buck Performance Testing & Recording Scheme (PTRS) for Limited Resource Meat Goat Producers in Alabama Test attempted to improve the profitability of the meat goat industry in the region by improving meat goat genetics. The test was supervised by the Caprine Research and Education Unit and Tuskegee University Extension Service and led by Kiko and Boer meat goat producers across the state. Although the test was open to any meat goat breed, Kiko is the predominant breed among southeastern U.S. producers because of its performance in the climate. The test has three primary goals: to help identify genetics that produce a salable carcass by feeding forages commonly available in the region; to help improve resistance or resilience to internal parasites, which is the No. 1 challenge for goat producers in Alabama; and to determine what studies should be included in future tests that can help producers improve production efficiency and profitability. While tests like these have been performed in several other states for many years, Alabama limited resource meat goat producers knew it was important to have tests performed in Alabama's climate.The buck test measured four main factors: fecal egg count, average daily weight gain, muscle thickness and USDA grading. The four measurements we are testing for are all very heritable traits. Nothing is ever 100%, but all these traits have a high rate of heritability. The data gathered in the test will help growers improve their herds within one to two years. Because the fastest way to improve any goat herd is with a herd sire. Most producers will see improvement in their herds in the first year after they add a buck with the specific traits they are looking for.Research and production data obtained so far could be used as a basis for recommendingsustainable management practices for regional limited resources meat goat producers who are currently utilizing both Kiko and Boer breeds. In addition, information was disseminated as appropriate to meat goat producers in neighboring states through networks and publications and demonstration of pilot model to encourage technology transfer and adoption. This multi-disciplinary research approach enhanced TU's extension activities among limited resource meat goat producers. The project provided undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to be part of a broad multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary group, through which they gained rich research experiences and werementored by multiple faculties with diverse expertise. The project also served as the basis for expanding teaching and improving curricula and research activities in CAENS and TU. Changes/Problems:Programs to improve meat goat production systems, especially in such difficult and complex environments did address the following major activities: 1. Detailed socioeconomic assessment of the nature of the production systems, and the relationship between poor people, resource use and the environment. 2. Assessment of relationships between limited resource flock dynamics and the environment, and their interactions. 3. Identification of the major constraints affecting production. 4. Quantification of nutrient supply to crops (through manure and urine), improvements to soil fertility, and effects on crop production. 5. Effects of improvements and interventions on the systems, e.g., feeds from multipurpose trees, crop-animal interactions in the production systems, and socio-economic and environmental assessment. 6. Improvements in post-production processes. 7. Meat goat enterprises operate in a complex and volatile context involving susceptibility to weather extremes, changing governmental policies and regulations, competitive land uses and shifting development patterns, evolving consumer demands, and globally influenced markets. 8. The specific implications of these external factors vary greatly by locale and across commodities and business forms. 9. Population and land use changes in farming communities can lead to producer/neighbor issues that influence choice of production What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The development of a pasture based buck performance testing program using local genotype, materials and skills lead to the successful extension of management packages, first by producers coming to see what is happening, then by research and extension staff demonstrating similar techniques and technologies in limited-resource farms. This has served to enhance meat goat programs in the state, and Tuskegee University now regarded as the center for meat goat buck performance testing among 1890 institutions. Tuskegee University now host training and demonstration workshops for other researchers, producers, students and extension personnel from other institutions and communities from around Alabama and the southeast region. Tuskegee University has a significant advantage in the Alabama meat goat industry by having an excellent Caprine Education & Research Unit, located at the George Washington Carver Agriculture Experiment Station. The Caprine unit is integral to meeting the objectives of the land-grant mission of the university. The primary mission of the unit is to conduct quality research and deliver extension services to limited-resource meat goat farmers and rural clientele. Other functions include providing improved breeding stocks to farmers, conducting annual field days, publishing technical newsletters, and the implementing the annual flagship technology transfer program - Master Goat Producer's Certification Program. This completed project would enhance the university's ability to promote technological advancement in the regional meat goat industry by undertaking innovative research and communicating advances through technology transfer. In addition, this extension project supports competitive and sustainable meat goat production practices in the context of preserving unique genetic resources, exploring the utilization of pasture as the main feed ingredients, improving the environment, and at the same time, ensuring the quality and safety of chevon products. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Progress reports were provided to consigners (and other interested persons) via regular electronic and regular mails. Also test results were summarized quarterly and annually and submitted to USDA-NIFA reports. The Project Directors summarized research findings, and disseminate the information through abstracts, publications, newsletters, brochures, and Caprine Unit's website. Target audience will include farmers, industry representatives, producers, news media, scientists, health professionals, and students. Manuscripts were prepared and submitted to appropriate scientific journals for publication. TU cooperative extension service provided an effective extension support program involving regular field days and farmer-demonstration contact, videos, publications, posters, which improves rural and urban community awareness of the technical, economic, environmental and social benefits of adopting this technology. In addition, with the younger generation showing interest in meat goat production, we used popular social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, and podcast video tutorials to share information with young people, and those producers who are connected. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
To select and identify superior meat goat sires, central performance testing must be conducted. Central performance testing involves a comparison of bucks at one location previously reared in several different locations. There are two types of on-farm performance tests for bucks: a feed-based test and a forage-based test. While some buck performance tests exist nationwide; none are currently available in Alabama. It is important to have a forage-based performance test available to Alabama producers so that they can evaluate potential sires in an environment similar to that in which they produce their animals. This project was designed to develop a model for applying forage-based central test buck evaluation to Boer and Kiko sires housed at the Caprine Research and Education Unit (CREU), at Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama. This trial test evaluated fifteen Boer Bucks at Tuskegee's Caprine Research and Education Unit. The fifteen (15) Boer bucks were evaluated for growth, breeding soundness, parasite resistance, and parasite resilience.Growth traits were measured by average daily gains (ADG). Prior to beginning the trial, the initial weights of the bucks were taken, and goats were placed in a pen with water and feed. On-test weights (ONTEST) were taken after the fourteen-day acclimation period, and the performance test began. Serial weights were taken bi-weekly during the testing program. Day eighty-four (OFFTEST) was the end of the testing period and a final weight was taken. A simple ADG calculation, OFFTEST- ONTEST/90 days, was used to calculate the overall average daily gain per goat. Feed, water, and condition of all animals were checked at least twice daily. Bucks had free-choice access to a commercial concentrate diet of at least 16% protein. A coccidiostat was given through the feed at recommended levels. Bucks may or may not be dewormed, depending upon other factors (body condition, average daily gain, prior scores, fecal egg counts, scores of other goats, etc.). During the test, FAMACHA scoring was used to estimate parasite load. The FAMACHA scoring tool assesses the level of anemia the goat is suffering due to the barber pole worm. If an individual buck scored low (1-3), it was not dewormed. If an animal received a score of 4 or 5, it was dewormed with Levamisole (Prohibit) or Doramectin (Dectomax). No buck excelled in all test parameters. Rankings for body condition scores (buck # 719 - first), average daily gain (buck #709 - first), body weight (buck #709 - first), FAMACHA (buck #725 - first) and scrotal circumference (bucks# 702 and 709) respectively. On average, body weight plateaued at around one hundred twenty-five pounds for the majority of the bucks with two bucks being underweight staying below one hundred pounds. The average on test weights varied between bucks. The average weight on test for all the bucks combined was 118.48 ±15.767lbs and ranged between 92.7lbs and 150.0lbs. The average daily gain calculated for the ninety-day test period showed non-significant differences (P<0.05) between the test bucks for ADG least square means. The overall mean for average daily gain was 0.845± 0.12 lbs./d with a range of 0.66 and 1.02 lbs./d respectively. An initial trend over the testing period for average daily gain demonstrates an upward trend with rates increasing over time. Correlations between body weights (BWT) and average daily gains (ADG) were significant, with a positive correlation of 0.41. The positive correlation is consistent with what has been found in other species such as pigs (Jesse et al., 1983). Average daily gain also had a positive correlation of 0.26 with body condition scores (BCS). However, the correlation between scrotal circumference (SC) and average daily gain (0.06) were found not to be significant in this study. Parasites did not account for the loss of any goats. No FAMACHA©score of 5 were observed and only six FAMACHA©scores of 4 were recorded during the test period. Excluding the initial sequential deworming, only 25 anthelmintic treatments were administered to the goats. This was an average of 0.3 treatments per goat. The lack of clinical parasitism was attributed to the supplemental feeding of soyhulls. On the other hand, sub-clinical parasitism was likely taking a toll on the goats, as evidenced by poor weight gains (on average) during the second half of the test.Throughout the duration of the study, most bucks maintained a body condition of three. Some bucks did have a body condition score of two throughout the study and some bucks who weighed more throughout the study had a body condition score of five. Most bucks had at least a 25cm scrotal circumference throughout the three-month study with the lowest circumference being twenty centimeters. This is a good indication that our bucks have good semen production however we should note that any scrotum with bumps and lumps will be avoided from selection. Performance testing has been used in many species to identify desirable sires, but it must be done at a central testing station to remove the variation that different environments may cause. The aim of any testing and selection program is to identify animals as parents of the next generation which are likely to contribute to increased herd net income. The development of a forage-based buck performance testing program using local genotypes of Boer and Kiko goats, materials, and skills, will lead to the successful extension of management packages, first by producers coming to see what is happening and how it is being done, then by research and extension staff demonstrating similar techniques and technologies in limited-resource farms. This will serve to enhance meat goat programs in the state of Alabama, and Tuskegee University could potentially become the center for meat goat buck performance testing among 1890 institutions.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2024
Citation:
1. C. Okere, T. Brewley, O. Bolden-Tiller, N. Gurung and F. Abrahamsen. 2024. Evaluation of a Pasture-based Buck Performance Testing and Recording Scheme (PTRS) at the Caprine Research & Education Unit (CREU), Tuskegee University. Proceedings of the 1890 Land-Grant Universities Association of Research Directors 21th Biennial Research Symposium, Nashville, TN. April 6-9, 2024 (Abstr. #. 907).
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Progress 04/15/23 to 04/14/24
Outputs
Target Audience:One training session and field day conducted at the state and county levels. Following were the major topics and hands-on activities included in the events. Major diseases and parasites (internal & external) of small ruminants and their prevention strategies. Pasture and grazing management for controlling internal parasites Nutrition, feeding, and immunity against parasites and diseases FAMACHA and smart drenching Use of tannin containing feeds and forages to control internal parasites Parasite drug resistance in small ruminants: causes and solutions Hands-on activities: General health inspection, use of FAMACHA card to determine the anemic condition of goats because of barber pole worm, monitoring the condition score, hoof inspection and trimming, taking body temperature, injection sites, fecal sample collection and examination, identifying parasites and parasite larvae, quantifying the parasite egg and determining whether treatment is necessary. Moreover, technical services provided to the producers on as-needed basis and educational materials made available through County Cooperative Extension Offices and Tuskegee University Website. A total of 76 people participated in the events. Participants gained skills and knowledge on various approaches on monitoring health conditions of small ruminants and taking care of the problems on time. Most importantly, they learned about the preventive measures of possible health problems Changes/Problems:Most goat meat sold in the U.S. is imported, but a group of Alabama meat goat producers wants to see that change. A first-of-its-kind test in the state is underway to help them meet that goal. The Tuskegee University Buck Performance Test aims to improve the profitability of the meat goat industry in the region by improving meat goat genetics. The test is being supervised by the Tuskegee University Extension Service and led by Kiko and Boer meat goat producers across the State. Although the test is open to any meat goat breed, Kiko and Boer are the predominant breeds among southeastern U.S. producers because of their performance in the climate. This project is the first step toward helping current and prospective Alabama producers improve their herds and, as a result, create a strong market for their products. The study will also help other producers in the region. With this test, we will hopefully be able to one day help meet the demand for goat meat in the U.S. with domestic product. That means more people coming into this business will have a place for whatever goat product they produce -- meat, special cuts, patties, sausages, jerky, and others. The test has three primary goals: to help identify genetics that produce a salable carcass by feeding forages commonly available in the state; to help improve resistance or resilience to internal parasites, which is the No. 1 challenge for goat producers in Alabama; and to determine what studies should be included in future tests that can help producers improve production efficiency and profitability. The committee's ultimate goal is to make meat goats a more feasible livestock animal for small farmers. "There is a lot of opportunity in goats for small farmers who have less than 50 acres of land. There is a lot of land in Alabama that is not suitable for row crops. There also are a lot of landowners who don't have enough land for a profitable cattle operation. But that land is great to raise goats. Factors that drive profit for producers include: healthy animals, and parasite resistance is one of the most important issues there and animals that can reach the proper weight and muscle to get a USDA prime grading. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?One training session and field day was conducted at the state and county levels. Following were the major topics and hands-on activities included in the events. Major diseases and parasites (internal & external) of small ruminants and their prevention strategies Pasture and grazing management for controlling internal parasites Nutrition, feeding, and immunity against parasites and diseases FAMACHA and smart drenching Use of tannin containing feeds and forages to control internal parasites Parasite drug resistance in small ruminants: causes and solutions Hands-on activities: General health inspection, use of FAMACHA card to determine the anemic condition of goats because of barber pole worm, monitoring the condition score, hoof inspection and trimming, taking body temperature, injection sites, fecal sample collection and examination, identifying parasites and parasite larvae, quantifying the parasite egg and determining whether treatment is necessary. Moreover, technical services provided to the producers on as-needed basis and educational materials made available through County Cooperative Extension Offices and Tuskegee University Website. A total of 76 people participated in the events. Participants gained skills and knowledge on various approaches on monitoring health conditions of small ruminants and taking care of the problems on time. Most importantly, they learned about the preventive measures of possible health problems. Impact: Participants gained skills and knowledge on the following topics. Sign and symptoms of small ruminants having health problems Use of FAMACHA card to monitor the anemic condition of small ruminants caused by barber pole worm infestation and determine the treatment strategies Integrated management techniques for minimizing health and parasites problems Evaluate the condition score of small ruminants Inspect hooves and trim if necessary to avoid foot rot and similar other complications arising from over-grown hooves Monitor the body temperature of small ruminants Collect and examine fecal samples from small ruminants to determine the internal parasite infestation Proper grazing and feeding management? How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The progress reports and summary reports from the 2023 year's test can be downloaded from the Tuskegee University Caprine Research & Education Unit website What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?2024- Tuskegee University- Caprine Research & Education (TU-CREU) Unit Pasture-Based Meat Goat Performance Test Theme: Identification of Genetically Superior Bucks Invitation to Participate in Pasture Based Buck Performance Testing & Recording Scheme (PTRS) as Consignors A pasture-based meat goat performance test was initiated at Tuskegee University- Caprine Research & Education Unit The test is sponsored by USDA/NIFA. The purpose test is to evaluate the post-weaning performance of male goats consuming a pasture-based diet with natural exposure to gastro-internal parasites, primarilyHaemoncus contortus(the barber pole worm). The test is open to purebred and papered percentage Boer and Kiko bucks in the tri-state region. Preference will be given to producers who are currently enrolled or have completed the Tuskegee University Master Goat Producer's Certification Program. TEST DATES (subject to change) Apr 15 - May 15, 2024 Nomination accepted Jun 15, 2024 Drop of Date Jul 1, 2024 Commence 2-month forage test Aug 31, 2024 Conclude forage test Sep 15, 2024 Commerce 1-month feed test Oct 14, 2024 Conclude Feed test Oct 25,2024 Field Day and Buck pick up Test guidelines, nomination form, and consignment form are available at the TU-CREU website. This test period, our maximum testing capacity of bucks is limited to 60 bucks. If you have any questions or problems let me know and we will try to work with you the best we can. My email is cokere@tuskegee.edu, the office phone is 334-728-8904. Questions or comments can also be directed to the Caprine Research Unit Manager, Mr. Russell Johnson, - 334-450-3990
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
OBJECTIVE #1 and #2: Provide a common test for evaluating rate of gain, structural soundness, muscularity, condition, and estimated carcass merit, parasite resistance. Provide a genetically sound testing program that would allow both large and small meat goat producers to participate. Completed: Delivery weights ranged from 32.4 to 79.2 lbs, and averaged 47.6 ± 9.2 lbs. The median delivery weight was 45.6 lbs. Nineteen bucks failed to meet the minimum weight requirement of 40 lbs. Four bucks exceeded the maximum weight requirement of 70 lbs. Starting (on-test) weights were determined by weighing the goats on consecutive days (July 7-8) and averaging the two weights. Starting weights ranged from 32.4 to 78.8 lbs. and averaged 50.1 ± 8.9 lbs. The median starting weight was 49.6 lbs. During the 13-day adjustment period, the goats gained an average of 2.1 ± 3.4 lbs. The median gain was 2.5 lbs. ADG during the adjustment period ranged from -0.592 to 0.693 lbs. per day and averaged 0.149 ± 0.245 lbs. per day. The median ADG was 0.179 lbs. per day. For the first 42 days, ADG ranged from -0.150 to 0.317 lbs. per day and averaged 0.116 ± 0.097 lbs. per day. The median ADG was 0.118 lbs. per day. The top-gaining goat was a buck from our breeding herd. Ending weights were determined on September 15. Ending (off-test) weights ranged from 40.4 to 84.0 lbs. and averaged 57.0 ± 10.1 lbs. The median ending weight was 55.4 lbs. For the 70-day duration of the test (and for the 84 goats that finished the test), ADG ranged from -0.093 to 0.294 lbs. per day and averaged 0.108 ± 0.084 lbs. per day. The median ADG was 0.108 lbs. per day. Upon arrival, fecal egg counts ranged from 0 to 21550 epg and averaged 1070 ± 3024 epg. The standard deviation was nearly three times the mean indicating a wide variation in initial fecal egg counts. The median was 125 epg, indicating that most goats started the test with a very low level of parasite infection. Four weeks after the initial dewormings, fecal egg counts began to increase. They continued to increase (substantially) as the test progressed. The number of goats that required deworming also increased as the test progressed. Each goat was dewormed an average of 0.8 times. Forty-three (44%) goats did not require deworming during the test. On September 15 (due to high and rising egg counts), all of the bucks were given a 1 g dose of copper oxide wire particles (COWPs). Pooled fecal samples were collected twice for larvae ID and a DrenchRite® test. The initial worm load carried by the goats was 70 percent Haemonchus contortus (barber pole worm). On August 3, the proportion of Haemonchus had increased to 90 percent. The DrenchRite® test showed that the worm population was resistant to all four dewormer groups: benzimidazoles (SafeGuard® and Valbazen®), avermectins (Ivomec®, Dectomax®, and Eprinex®), moxidectin (Cydectin®), and levamisole (Prohibit® and LevaMed®). On the last day of the test, the bucks were evaluated for reproductive soundness and structural correctness. Scrotal circumference was measured. Measurements ranged from 17.5 to 27.0 cm and averaged 22.6± 2.1 cm. Teats were counted and characterized. Only two bucks had supernumerary teats or teat defects. The bite of each buck was checked. No buck displayed a significant over- or underbite. The bucks were evaluated for structure and movement. No abnormalities were noted. Hooves were examined for growth and abnormalities. Only one buck had abnormal hoof growth (abnormal heel growth). Only five bucks met the traditional gold, silver, and bronze standards of performance for average daily gain (ADG), and parasite resistance (Avg. FEC<1000 EPG and High FEC<2000 EPG). Only one buck met the Gold standard (Avg. FEC<500 EPG and High FEC<1000 EPG).
Publications
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Progress 04/15/22 to 04/14/23
Outputs
Target Audience:2022 was the first year of the Development of Pasture Based Buck Performance Testing & Recording Scheme (PTRS) for Limited-Resource Meat Goat Producers in which is conducted at the Tuskegee University Caprine Research & Education Center as a pilot project . The purpose of the test is to evaluate the post-weaning performance of meat goat bucks consuming a pasture-based diet, with natural exposure to gastro-intestinal parasites, primarily the barber pole worm (Haemonchus contortus). 42 bucks were consigned to the test. The mostly Kiko bucks were consigned from our teaching and research herd. Thirty -two started the test on July 7-8 and finished the test on September 15. Four died and six were removed from the test, due to their inability to adapt to test conditions. Upon arrival, the bucks were sequentially dosed with anthelmintics from all three anthelmintic classes: albendazole (Valbazen® @ 2 ml/11 lbs), moxidectin (Cydectin® @ 2 ml/11 lbs.) and levamisole (Prohibit® @ 3 ml/50 lbs.). The reason for the sequential deworming was to make sure all the bucks started the test equally and "free" from worms.Fecal egg counts from June 23-24 and July 8 were compared to determine the efficacy of the sequential dosing. For the fifteen goats that had fecal egg counts >1000 epg, the sequential dosing reduced egg counts by an average of 84 percent. If the odd data point is eliminated (one goat had only a 1% reduction in FEC), the average fecal egg count reduction in these goats was 90%. Several goats with low initial fecal egg counts experienced substantial increases in fecal egg counts after the sequential dosing, indicating a resistant population of immature worms upon arrival. While on test, the bucks were evaluated for growth performance (ADG), parasite resistance (FECs), and parasite resilience. They were handled every two weeks to determine body weights, FAMACHA©, body condition, coat condition, dag, and fecal consistency scores. FAMACHA© scores and the Five Point Check© were used to make deworming decisions. Weight gain and fecal egg counts were also factored into deworming decisions for goats with FAMACHA© scores of 3. It was often necessary to administer at least two dewormers to alleviate the symptoms of clinically-parasitized goats. Fecal samples were collected from each buck every two weeks to determine individual fecal egg counts. Pooled samples were collected twice for larvae ID and the DrenchRite® test. One training session and master goat certification program were conducted for meat goat producers at the state and county levels. Following were the major topics and hands-on activities included in the events. Major diseases and parasites (internal & external) of small ruminants and their prevention strategies Pasture and grazing management for controlling internal parasites Nutrition, feeding, and immunity against parasites and diseases FAMACHA and smart drenching Use of tannin containing feeds and forages to control internal parasites Parasite drug resistance in small ruminants: causes and solutions Hands-on activities: General health inspection, use of FAMACHA card to determine the anemic condition of goats because of barber pole worm, monitoring the condition score, hoof inspection and trimming, taking body temperature, injection sites, fecal sample collection and examination, identifying parasites and parasite larvae, quantifying the parasite egg and determining whether treatment is necessary. Moreover, technical services provided to the producers on as-needed basis and educational materials made available through County Cooperative Extension Offices and Tuskegee University Website. Results: A total of 76 people participated in the events. Participants gained skills and knowledge on various approaches on monitoring health conditions of small ruminants and taking care of the problems on time. Most importantly, they learned about the preventive measures of possible health problems. Impact: Participants gained skills and knowledge on the following topics: Sign and symptoms of small ruminants having health problems Use of FAMACHA card to monitor the anemic condition of small ruminants caused by barber pole worm infestation and determine the treatment strategies Integrated management techniques for minimizing health and parasites problems Evaluate the condition score of small ruminants Inspect hooves and trim if necessary to avoid foot rot and similar other complications arising from over-grown hooves Monitor the body temperature of small ruminants Collect and examine fecal samples from small ruminants to determine the internal parasite infestation Proper grazing and feeding management. Changes/Problems:•The development of a pasture based buck performance testing program using local genotypes (Boer and Kiko), materials and skills will lead to the successful extension of management packages, first by producers coming to see what is happening, then by research and extension staff demonstrating similar techniques and technologies in limited-resource farms. •This will serve to enhance meat goat programs in the state, and Tuskegee University could potentially become the center for meat goat buck performance testing among 1890 institutions. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?One training session and field day conducted at the state and county levels. Following were the major topics and hands-on activities included in the events. Major diseases and parasites (internal & external) of small ruminants and their prevention strategies Pasture and grazing management for controlling internal parasites Nutrition, feeding, and immunity against parasites and diseases FAMACHA and smart drenching Use of tannin containing feeds and forages to control internal parasites Parasite drug resistance in small ruminants: causes and solutions Hands-on activities: General health inspection, use of FAMACHA card to determine the anemic condition of goats because of barber pole worm, monitoring the condition score, hoof inspection and trimming, taking body temperature, injection sites, fecal sample collection and examination, identifying parasites and parasite larvae, quantifying the parasite egg and determining whether treatment is necessary. Moreover, technical services provided to the producers on as-needed basis and educational materials made available through County Cooperative Extension Offices and Tuskegee University Website. Results: A total of 76 people participated in the events. Participants gained skills and knowledge on various approaches on monitoring health conditions of small ruminants and taking care of the problems on time. Most importantly, they learned about the preventive measures of possible health problems. Impact: Participants gained skills and knowledge on the following topics: Sign and symptoms of small ruminants having health problems Use of FAMACHA card to monitor the anemic condition of small ruminants caused by barber pole worm infestation and determine the treatment strategies Integrated management techniques for minimizing health and parasites problems Evaluate the condition score of small ruminants Inspect hooves and trim if necessary to avoid foot rot and similar other complications arising from over-grown hooves Monitor the body temperature of small ruminants Collect and examine fecal samples from small ruminants to determine the internal parasite infestation Proper grazing and feeding management How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The progress reports and summary reports from the 2022 year's test can be downloaded from the Tuskegee University Caprine Research & Education Unit website What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Location & Test Schedule This annual 90-day performance buck test will involve male goats, of Boer (n=25) and Kiko (n=25) breeds from approved consignors, at the Tuskegee University Caprine Research and Education Unit. The test is open to purebred and papered percentage Boer and Kiko bucks in Alabama. Preference will be given to producers who are currently enrolled or have completed the Tuskegee University Master Goat Producer's Certification Program. Eligibility Requirements for Bucks to Participate in Test: Animals must be identified to meet Current Federal Scrapie Regulations. Bucks must be weaned at least two (2) weeks prior to entry date and weigh at least 30 pounds upon delivery. Bucks must have a recorded birth date and their sire must be known and documented. Bucks must be free of obvious structural or reproductive abnormalities. This is a combination of structural correctness, mouth, frame type, natural muscling, and breed type. All bucks must be accompanied by a veterinarian's statement that required vaccinations, at least one vaccination of CDT (C. perfringens with Tetanus) and/or tests have been done within the designated time. TEST PROTOCOLS Data Collection Average Daily Gain: Bucks will be weighed every 14 days and a progress report will be sent to the owner and other interested persons at least every other period. Other factors evaluated will include scrotal circumference, estimated loin eye area, daily gain. Health and Veterinary Care Health of the bucks will be under the supervision of the attending veterinarian. Appropriate metaphylaxis may be administered for pulmonary disease if deemed necessary in the judgment of the attending veterinarian. During the adjustment period, all bucks will be treated for the control of internal and external parasites and vaccinated for entertoxemia, sore mouth, and tetanus as needed. All bucks will have their feet trimmed by a professional foot trimmer at the midpoint of the test and again at the end of the test. TEST PROTOCOLS Performance Standards Upon test completion, qualifying bucks who also met the minimum standards for structural and reproductive soundness will be assigned to one of three performance standard categories: Regular, Premium and Supreme Bucks Parameter Regular Premium Supreme ADG, lbs./day 0.13 0.15 0.20 Avg. FEC 2,000 1,500 < 1,000 High FAM, 1-5 3 3 2 # anthel. Tx 2 1 0 BCS (1-5) 3 - 4 3 - 4 3 Scrotal Circ, cm 25 25-30 >30
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Results Delivery weights ranged from 32.4 to 79.2 lbs, and averaged 47.6 ± 9.2 lbs. The median delivery weight was 45.6 lbs. Nineteen bucks failed to meet the minimum weight requirement of 40 lbs. Four bucks exceeded the maximum weight requirement of 70 lbs.Starting (on-test) weights were determined by weighing the goats on consecutive days (July 7-8) and averaging the two weights.Starting weights ranged from 32.4 to 78.8 lbs. and averaged 50.1 ± 8.9 lbs. The median starting weight was 49.6 lbs. During the 13-day adjustment period, the goats gained an average of 2.1±3.4 lbs. The median gain was 2.5 lbs. ADG during the adjustment period ranged from -0.592 to 0.693 lbs. per day and averaged 0.149±0.245 lbs. per day. The median ADG was 0.179 lbs. per day. For the first 42 days, ADG ranged from -0.150 to 0.317 lbs. per day and averaged 0.116±0.097 lbs. per day. The median ADG was 0.118 lbs. per day. The top-gaining goat was a buck from our breeding herd. Endingweights were determined on September 15. Ending (off-test) weights ranged from 40.4 to 84.0 lbs. and averaged 57.0 ± 10.1 lbs. The median ending weight was 55.4 lbs.For the 70-day duration of the test (and for the 84 goats that finished the test), ADG ranged from -0.093 to 0.294 lbs. per day and averaged 0.108±0.084 lbs. per day. The median ADG was 0.108 lbs. per day. Upon arrival, fecal egg counts ranged from 0 to 21550 epg and averaged 1070±3024 epg. The standard deviation was nearly three times the mean indicating a wide variation in initial fecal egg counts. The median was 125 epg, indicating that most goats started the test with a very low level of parasite infection. Four weeks after the initial dewormings, fecal egg counts began to increase. They continued to increase (substantially) as the test progressed. The number of goats that required deworming also increased as the test progressed. Each goat was dewormed an average of 0.8 times.Forty-three (44%) goats did not require deworming during the test. On September 15 (due to high and rising egg counts), all of the bucks were given a 1 g dose of copper oxide wire particles (COWPs). Pooled fecal samples were collected twice for larvae ID and a DrenchRite®test. The initial worm load carried by the goats was 70 percentHaemonchus contortus(barber pole worm). On August 3, the proportion ofHaemonchushad increased to 90 percent. TheDrenchRite® test showed that the worm population was resistant to all four dewormer groups: benzimidazoles (SafeGuard® and Valbazen®), avermectins (Ivomec®, Dectomax®, and Eprinex®), moxidectin (Cydectin®), and levamisole (Prohibit® and LevaMed®). On the last day of the test, the bucks were evaluated for reproductive soundness and structural correctness. Scrotal circumference was measured. Measurements ranged from 17.5 to 27.0 cm and averaged 22.6± 2.1 cm. Teats were counted and characterized. Only two bucks had supernumerary teats or teat defects. The bite of each buck was checked. No buck displayed a significant over- or underbite. The bucks were evaluated for structure and movement. No abnormalities were noted. Hooves were examined for growth and abnormalities. Only one buck had abnormal hoof growth (abnormal heel growth). Only five bucks met the traditional gold, silver, and bronze standards of performance for average daily gain (ADG), and parasite resistance (Avg. FEC<1000 EPG and High FEC<2000 EPG). Only one buck met the Gold standard (Avg. FEC<500 EPG and High FEC<1000 EPG).
Publications
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Progress 04/15/21 to 04/14/22
Outputs
Target Audience:The target audiences for these programs are limited resource producers, extension educators, and rural dwellers within the State of Alabama. The technology transfer component of this program will include publications in peer-reviewed journals, poster presentations, documentation and monographs for sustainable livestock production and improving meat quality. Also, a wide range of demonstration projects, farm tours, group meetings, seminars, applied research, and other outreach activities will be conducted to meet the needs of the targeted audiences. Consequently, an attempt will be made to comprehensively evaluate a number of Boer and Kiko goats, including a demonstration of their economic merit and performance characteristics and to make this information publicly available. Research and production data obtained could be used as a basis for recommending sustainable management practices for regional limited resources meat goat producers who are currently utilizing both breeds. In addition, information will be disseminated as appropriate to meat goat producers in neighboring states through networks and publications and demonstration of pilot model to encourage technology transfer and adoption. This multi-disciplinary research approach will enhance TU's extension activities among limited resource meat goat producers. The project will provide undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to be part of a broad multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary group, through which they will gain rich research experiences and be mentored by multiple faculty with diverse expertise. The project will also serve as the basis for expanding teaching and improving curricula and research activities in CAENS and TU. Changes/Problems:Changes/Problems Programs to improve meat goat production systems, especially in such difficult and complex environments must address the following major activities: Detailed socioeconomic assessment of the nature of the production systems, and the relationship between poor people, resource use and the environment. Assessment of relationships between limited resource flock dynamics and the environment, and their interactions. Identification of the major constraints affecting production. Quantification of nutrient supply to crops (through manure and urine), improvements to soil fertility, and effects on crop production. Effects of improvements and interventions on the systems, e.g., feeds from multipurpose trees, crop-animal interactions in the production systems, and socio-economic and environmental assessment. Improvements in post-production processes. Meat goat enterprises operate in a complex and volatile context involving susceptibility to weather extremes, changing governmental policies and regulations, competitive land uses and shifting development patterns, evolving consumer demands, and globally influenced markets. The specific implications of these external factors vary greatly by locale and across commodities and business forms. Population and land use changes in farming communities can lead to producer/neighbor issues that influence choice of production What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The development of a pasture based buck performance testing program using local genotype, materials and skills will lead to the successful extension of management packages, first by producers coming to see what is happening, then by research and extension staff demonstrating similar techniques and technologies in limited-resource farms. This will serve to enhance meat goat programs in the state, and Tuskegee University could potentially become the center for meat goat buck performance testing among 1890 institutions. This could lead to Tuskegee University hosting training and demonstration workshops for other researchers, producers, students and extension personnel from other institutions and communities from around Alabama and the southeast region. Tuskegee University has a significant advantage in the Alabama meat goat industry by having an excellent Caprine Education & Research Unit, located at the George Washington Carver Agriculture Experiment Station. The Caprine unit is integral to meeting the objectives of the land-grant mission of the university. The primary mission of the unit is to conduct quality research and deliver extension services to limited-resource meat goat farmers and rural clientele. Other functions include providing improved breeding stocks to farmers, conducting annual field days, publishing technical newsletters, and the implementing the annual flagship technology transfer program - Master Goat Producer's Certification Program. The outlined project would enhance the university's ability to promote technological advancement in the regional meat goat industry by undertaking innovative research and communicating advances through technology transfer. In addition, this extension project will support competitive and sustainable meat goat production practices in the context of preserving unique genetic resources, exploring the utilization of pasture as the main feed ingredients, improving the environment, and at the same time, ensuring the quality and safety of chevon products. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Progress reports will be provided to consigners (and other interested persons) every14 days via regular electronic and regular mails. Also test results will be summarized quarterly and annually and submitted to USDA-NIFA reports. The Project Directors will summarize research findings, and disseminate the information through abstracts, publications, newsletters, brochures, and Caprine Unit's website. Target audience will include farmers, industry representatives, producers, news media, scientists, health professionals, and students. Manuscripts will be prepared and submitted to appropriate scientific journals for publication. TU cooperative extension service will provide an effective extension support program involving regular field days and farmer-demonstration contact, videos, publications, posters, which improves rural and urban community awareness of the technical, economic, environmental and social benefits of adopting this technology. In addition, with the younger generation showing interest in meat goat production, we will use popular social media outlets such as Facebook, Twitter, and podcast video tutorials to share information with young people, and those producers who are connected. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?Tuskegee university's strong commitment to the meat goat program at the Caprine Research and Education Unit where research activities are already taking place in composite meat goat breed development, parasite resistance and assisted reproductive techniques ensures that the present project will be continued beyond the period of USDA/NIFA support. The university is strongly committed to building a strong meat goat research program from the existing livestock species (goat and poultry) being maintained at the agricultural program. To ensure sustained relevant utilization of project results by the recipient client groups, project coordinators will encourage and facilitate cross or multi-disciplinary collaboration in research, education, technology transfer, and technical assistance programmatic efforts. Also, University and community-based partners and key stakeholders in the target areas will be encouraged to promote the pursuit of resources. In short, the project's viability and value will persist due to the inherent and implicit need for sustainable meat goat production practices and technology transfer at both the university and producer level, along with university and community stakeholders' involvement in the overall process.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Location & Test Schedule This annual 90-day performance buck test will involve male goats, of Boer (n=25) and Kiko (n=25) breeds from approved consignors, at the Tuskegee University Caprine Research and Education Unit. The test is open to purebred and papered percentage Boer and Kiko bucks in Alabama. Preference will be given to producers who are currently enrolled or have completed the Tuskegee University Master Goat Producer's Certification Program. APPROXIMATE TESTING TIMETABLE Nomination Period January 31 - March 15, 2022 Delivery dates- .................................................................................... April 5, 6, 8, 9 Official start.................................................................................................. April 23 14-day weighing ................................................................................................ May 7 28-day weighing ............................................................................................ May 21 42-day weighing .............................................................................................. June 4 56-day weighing............................................................................................. June 18 70-day weighing................................................................................................ July 2 Tentative sale date....................................................................................... August 3 Pre-Test Technical Comm. Mtg. .................................................... To be scheduled Post-Test Technical Comm. Mtg.................................................... To be scheduled
Publications
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