The Western Kentucky Sheep Conference will once again be full of useful information for sheep producers. The conference will begin at 8:30 a.m. January 15, 2000 at the University of Kentucky Research and Education Center in Princeton, Ky.

The conference will focus on the changing sheep industry, profitable use of sheep genetics, profitable reproductive management, health management, basic sheep nutrition, and forage programs for sheep.

"As Kentucky farmers seek additional sources of farm income, the sheep enterprise is a viable alternative source of income," Monty Chappell, UK Extension sheep specialist, said. "The enterprise is based largely on the use of renewable resources, can use available labor and offers opportunities for added value. U.S. sheep producers supply only about two-thirds of the lamb consumed in the country, so markets are readily available."

A presentation focusing on the sheep industry in Australia and New Zealand will take place immediately following lunch. The conference concludes with a session entitled "What you Always Wanted to Know About Sheep but Were Afraid to Ask."

"The conference is designed to meet the needs of new or prospective producers as well as the experienced producer," Chappell said. "History clearly documents that sheep respond well to high levels of management. The applications of present technologies can improve production efficiency and improve their profit potential."

Registration for the conference is $5 to cover lunch expenses. For more information, contact your county Extension office, the Research and Education Center at Princeton (270) 365-7541, or Monty Chappell (606) 257-2716.

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