Sheep producers have an opportunity to learn how to improve their profit potential and marketing skills at the University of Kentucky's first Fall Sheep Short Course November 2.

Course coordinator and UK Extension Sheep Specialist Monty Chappell said producers need to be investigating new opportunities and marketing avenues and this short course will get them thinking in that direction.

Several topics will be addressed by speakers at the course, which begins at 8:30 a.m. at the E.S. Good Barn on the UK campus. UK Veterinarian Patty Scharko will discuss Zoonotics, which is a term for diseases that can be spread from animals to humans.

"We are always talking to sheep producers about the importance of biosecurity," said Chappell. "But sometimes all of us need to be reminded of the simplest things we can do to prevent disease. Just washing your hands after you've been in the barn."

A session led by Nan Riekert, Jessamine county sheep producer, will show producers that promotion is important to the development of local markets for sheep products. Chappell will show producers how to analyze their financial bottom line. Don Ely, UK animal sciences professor will lead a session about low-input sheep production.

"We really want to stress that even low-input sheep production requires a high level of management to be successful," Chappell said.

Afternoon activities include sessions about wool marketing opportunities and genetic testing, as well as a business meeting for members of the Kentucky Sheep and Wool Producers.

The Short Course is sponsored by the UK College of Agriculture and KSWP. Registration is required by October 30. Please call Kay Cloyd at (859) 254-2840 to register. A $3 fee will cover lunch for non-members. For more information contact Chappell at (859) 257-2716.