LU-MRRL Lecture Series: Opportunities for Sheep and Goat Producers Across Missouri

Currently there are about 80 million lamb and mutton consumers in the U.S. with up to $2 billion in purchasing power. Missouri is home to 15 million acres of forest and 17 million acres of pasture, providing vast possibilities for livestock production. A sheep and goat enterprise can be started on a small farm with small breeding stock, and the animals can be raised on forage alone. Investment can be paid fast, with quick expansion of herd and no external hiring required. It can be an excellent enterprise for farmers, including low-income producers. Dr. Mohan Acharya, state extension and research specialist for LU, will explain the possibilities for this agricultural venture.