2026 N.C. Small Ruminant Educational Series

The N.C. Small Ruminant Educational Series is an annual program designed to provide practical, research-based information to help sheep and goat producers improve animal health, productivity, and on-farm management. Each year, this series focuses on timely topics and common challenges faced by small ruminant producers across North Carolina.

Quick Registration Links

• Late Gestation Management – January 22 (Online)
  Register: https://smallruminants.eventbrite.com

• Lactation Management (Mastitis & OPP) – February 10 (Chatham County)
  Register: https://smallruminant-lactation.eventbrite.com

• Urinary Calculi & Coccidiosis – March 3 (Johnston County)
  Register: https://smallruminant-health.eventbrite.com

• Biosecurity (CL, CAE/OPP, Johne’s, HPAI, Footrot) – April 30 (Iredell County)
  Register: https://smallruminant-biosecurity.eventbrite.com

In 2026, this series will be offered in a hybrid format for the first time.
This approach is designed to encourage producers to come together in person to learn, eat, and network while still allowing online participation for those unable to attend in-person. Our goal is to strengthen producer connections while delivering high-quality educational programming.

Sessions are led by NC State Extension specialists and veterinarians and are offered online and in-person across the state.

Part 1 – Late Gestation Management

January 22 | Online

Late gestation is one of the most critical periods for both ewe/doe and offspring health. This session will cover:

• Nutritional needs during late pregnancy

• Body condition management

• Preventing pregnancy toxemia and metabolic disorders

• Preparing for lambing and kidding

• Management practices to support strong, healthy newborns

Eventbrite: https://smallruminants.eventbrite.com

Part 2 – Lactation Management: Mastitis & OPP

February 10 | Chatham County

This session will focus on udder health and disease issues that impact milk production and long-term performance. Topics include:

• Recognizing early signs of mastitis and OPP

• Causes and risk factors for udder infections

• Treatment and management strategies

• Prevention practices to reduce future cases

• Long-term impacts on productivity and herd health

Food & networking begin at 6:30 PM. Zoom program starts at 7:00 PM.

Eventbrite: https://smallruminant-lactation.eventbrite.com

Part 3 – Urinary Calculi & Coccidiosis

March 3 | Johnston County

Two common and costly health problems in small ruminants will be covered in this session. Producers will learn:

• What urinary calculi and coccidiosis are and why they occur

• Clinical signs to watch for in the herd or flock

• Nutrition and management factors that increase risk

• Prevention strategies, including feed and mineral management

• Treatment options and working with your veterinarian

Food & networking begin at 6:30 PM. Zoom program starts at 7:00 PM.

Eventbrite: https://smallruminant-health.eventbrite.com

Part 4 – Biosecurity: CL, CAE/OPP, Johne’s, HPAI & Footrot

April 30 | Iredell County

This session will focus on disease awareness, prevention, and management through sound biosecurity practices. Topics include:

• Overview of CL, CAE/OPP, Johne’s, HPAI, and Footrot

• How these diseases spread and what signs to look for

• Quarantine and isolation protocols for new and sick animals

• Vaccination considerations and limitations

• Management practices to reduce disease risk on your farm

Food & networking begin at 6:30 PM. Zoom program starts at 7:00 PM.

Eventbrite: https://smallruminant-biosecurity.eventbrite.com

Why Attend this Series?

• Learn from NC State Extension specialists and veterinarians

• Gain practical, research-based information you can apply on your farm

• Connect with other sheep and goat producers

• Share experiences, challenges, and solutions

• Build relationships while learning in person or online