Shepherd WISE

Shepherd WISE: Hands-On Training for Sheep Producers

Shepherd WISE Training gives Virginia sheep producers an opportunity to build practical skills in flock health, lamb production, and day-to-day management. Virginia Cooperative Extension’s Women in Agriculture WISE training series includes the program and offers practical experience for participants’ farms.

The October 7 program focuses on sheep production, covering herd health, lamb processing, nutrition, and veterinary decision-making.

Build Better Flock Management Skills

Participants in Shepherd WISE will work through practical issues that can affect animal health, productivity, and profitability. Herd-health discussions help producers better recognize common problems and know when they need veterinary care.

Nutrition will also be part of the program, giving participants a chance to consider how feeding decisions affect sheep condition, reproduction, growth, and overall flock performance.

Lamb processing instruction adds another practical component for producers who raise animals for meat or are considering direct-market opportunities.

Make More Informed Animal Health Decisions

One goal of Shepherd WISE is to help producers feel more confident when making veterinary and management decisions.

Producers can respond faster to health problems by understanding what stays on the farm and when to call a veterinarian.

The training is part of a three-day WISE series that also includes Cattle WISE and Equipment WISE. Participants can attend the sheep-focused session separately based on their interests and production needs.

Scholarships may be available based on financial need. Producers should review the current Virginia Cooperative Extension registration information for costs, location details, and availability before attending.

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