Organic sheep and goat farming

There is a growing demand for organic commodities, including those products derived from sheep and goats:  meat, fiber, milk, cheese, etc.

The biggest challenge to raising sheep and goats organically is internal parasite control.  Animals destined for slaughter may not be dewormed or treated with an anti-coccidia drug. Alternative methods of parasite control must be implemented. Any animal that requires anthelmintic or antibiotic treatment cannot be sold as organic.

The Maryland Small Ruminant Page has added a page on organic sheep and goat farming.  The page contains a comprehensive list of links pertaining to organic sheep and goat production: animal health, breeding, economics, marketing, meat quality, pasture, predator control, standards, transitioning, and welfare.

www.sheepandgoat.com/organicfarming.html