By Blake Jackson
Kentucky State University highlights that during Goat Month goats bring strong value to agriculture while the university supports producers through education, research, and Extension programs. Across Kentucky, goats help family farms, local food systems, vegetation control, and agricultural education.
Kentucky Department of Agriculture data show that 3,524 farmers in the state have goats as part of their livestock operations. The goat industry contributes more than $3.6 million in agricultural receipts, and Kentucky ranks sixth in the nation for meat goat inventory. These numbers show why producer support remains important.
Kentucky State is expanding that support through a new educational video series called “Bluegrass Small Ruminant Solutions.” The program is developed by Dr. Valens Niyigena, assistant professor of livestock nutrition. It began in March with videos covering winter goat management and hoof trimming.
“Our goal is to bridge the gap between research and the farm gate,” Dr. Niyigena said.
The newest videos focus on parasite management, an important issue during warmer weather. Topics include FAMACHA scoring, fecal sampling, and fecal egg counts. These tools help producers identify anemia linked to parasites, safely collect samples, check eggs under a microscope, and make better deworming decisions.
Parasite control remains one of the biggest concerns for goat and sheep farms. By offering research-based guidance, Kentucky State helps producers protect herd health and manage drug resistance.
Dr. Tyrell Kahan said Goat Month offers a good time to show the full reach of the university’s goat programs.
“Goat Month gives us a chance to highlight the full scope of this work, from producer education and animal health to hands-on training, student learning, and outreach to the public,” Dr. Kahan said. “Our goal is to make sure the information we develop through Extension is practical, accessible, and useful to the people who can put it to work.”
At the Harold R. Benson Research & Demonstration Farm, Kentucky State manages nearly 100 goats for teaching, research, and demonstrations. The university has also used goats in Frankfort for vegetation control, showing their value in sustainable land management.
Photo Credit: istock-heebyj
Categories: Kentucky, Livestock, Goats & Sheep