New sheep nutrition management course available

By Gary Sliworsky
OMAFRA Rep.

A new online course, “Improve Your Sheep Nutrition Management Skills”, has been developed by Dr. Paul Luimes, researcher at the University of Guelph, Ridgetown Campus. This general-interest course was developed with support from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food and Ministry of Rural Affairs (OMAF and MRA), and the Agricultural Management
Institute (AMI).
Strong demand for lamb in Canada has increased interest in sheep farming. “It is important that with the rising cost of feed, shepherds having a better understanding of nutrition to help better manage costs and optimize production,” says Dr. Luimes. This course will provide new and existing producers with a foundation of knowledge in sheep nutrition, giving them the basic tools to be able to optimize the balance between feed, meat quality and profitability. Linking nutrition with the cost of production, producers will be made more aware of the relationship between nutrition, management and profitability.
This online course will allow each individual to work through the course material at their own pace, from any computer with internet access, at a time convenient to their schedule. Topics covered in the course include:
-Feed Types
-Nutrients
-Digestive Physiology
-Nutrient Requirements
-Ration Formulation
-Feed Management
For more information about the “Improve your Sheep Nutrition Management Skills” course or to register online visit: http://www.ridgetownc.com/bdt/ce_sheep.cfm
For further information on this program please contact:
Dezarae Kemp
Business Development Centre
University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus
519-675-1500 ext. 63295 email: dmalott@uoguelph.
Arrangements are being made to bring someone to the district to do sheep shearing. If you are interested in having your sheep sheared please call the Emo OMAF and MRA office at 482-1921.