Conferences
Advancing Small Ruminant Production: A Portfolio Model for Risk Management Education
Jennifer Lutes
Summary
The Advancing Small Ruminant Production portfolio of programs addresses the evolving needs of Missouri’s small ruminant industry, focusing on risk management education for both beginner and advanced sheep and goat producers. As interest in small ruminant production grows, producers face unique challenges and opportunities in a competitive agricultural market. Missouri ranks 14th in sheep and lamb inventory and 2nd in meat and other goat inventory as of 2024, rising in the past ten years from 17th and 5th respectively, underscoring the state’s growth in these sectors.
The portfolio addresses financial, production, marketing, legal, and human risks through training on topics such as budgeting, cost analysis, cash flow management, herd health, multi-species grazing strategies, market outlooks, value-added opportunities, record-keeping, resource allocation, and succession planning. Educational activities are delivered via workshops, webinars, and collaborations with stakeholders such as Lincoln University Extension, the Missouri Sheep Producers Association, and the Goat Expo.
Over the last three years, the portfolio has reached 1,160 participants through 17 events. Pre- and post-surveys demonstrate a significant increase in knowledge and confidence in applying risk management strategies. Planned practice changes include adopting production records (64%), starting new value-added enterprises (63%), and stating they would add sheep (30%) or goats (33%) to a cattle enterprise.
By addressing critical risks, the portfolio supported the development of a more resilient and sustainable small ruminant industry in Missouri. This comprehensive approach to risk management education serves as a model for empowering agricultural producers and fostering informed decision-making.
Details
| Conference | 2025 Extension Risk Management Education National Conference |
| Presentation Type | Poster |