By Shelby Wentz, ABAC Agricultural Communication, May 2026 graduate
Interest in sheep and goats is increasing as a result of their role in regenerative agriculture. Browse through the Sheep and Goats barn to learn more about the basics of raising small ruminants and regenerative agriculture. Multiple seminars will take place every day, which will include hands-on activities as well as seminars on the basics of raising sheep and goats.
Regenerative agriculture has become more common over the past few years. Regenerative agriculture is a practice of farming and grazing that restores and conserves degraded soils.
Henry Dorough, a recently retired agent from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, will speak more on regenerative agriculture every day at 10:45 a.m. Dorough has prepared lessons on reintroducing our grandfathers’ lessons in farming.
Paula Burke is a UGA Cooperative Extension Agent and expert in small ruminants.
“Sheep and goats can help you do that with the type of management with the type of soil, pastures, and land, very easily,” said Burke.
Since interest in sheep and goats has been increasing, the Expo is offering more opportunities for attendees to meet with experts in the industry. The increased interest has brought the cost of purchasing ruminants down. They also help manage pastures and grazing areas, lowering overall operational costs.
“The importance of how to raise sheep and goats is what you are going to do with them and how you are going to market them,” said Burke.
Each day, there will be showcases, seminars, and demonstrations to help new small ruminant farmers.
Dr. Angela McKenzie Jakes, of Florida A&M University and Dr. Niki Whitley, of Fort Valley State University, will hold multiple a demonstration and skill-a-thon to test sheep and goat production and equipment knowledge. The demonstration will include handling animals, body condition scoring, physical evaluation, and more. While the demonstration is taking place, there will be a skill-a-thon which will include testing your sheep and goat production and equipment knowledge where you can compete to win prizes. This event will take place everyday at 1:00 p.m. in the Small Ruminant barn.
Dr. Clarissa Harris, of Tuskegee University will hold a seminar on meats and marketing which includes processing, inspection status, impact on meat sales and more at 1:30 p.m. everyday.
Dr. Brittany Diehl, of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, will speak about small ruminant health at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday and Wednesday.
New this year is a sheep and goat showing demonstration. This demonstration will include helpful tips on feeding, grooming and showmanship. This demo will be held at 12:30 p.m. every day in the Beef Barn. 4-H and FFA students are encouraged to attend.
Stop by the Sheep and Goats Section for fact sheets, giveaways, live animal displays and recipes.
