Both goats and sheep are found all over the world, and were among the first animals domesticated by humans. They are social animals that like to graze and eat grass, but farmers may also give them hay and grain to eat. It is very important that they have lots of water to drink and shelter when weather is extremely hot or cold.
Though goat consumption in the U.S. is just beginning to take off, more people eat goat meat and dairy products than the meat and dairy products of any other animal worldwide. Georgia has the fourth-largest goat population east of the Mississippi River, and UGA Extension is here to serve this growing agricultural segment in our state.
Our Programs and Services
-
Master Goat Farmer Six-week program on the basics of nutrition, reproduction, diseases, and more.
-
On-Site and Telephone Consultation Available in many county offices for ag producers.
Recent Publications
-
Meat Goat Production in Georgia (B 1168) Goats are the most widely-dispersed meat animals and have been raised for centuries to provide meat, milk, fiber, cashmere and leather. Due to their small size, adaptability to harsh environments and …
-
Control of Mastitis and Milk Quality in Dairy Goats through Immunization (B 1446) Prevalence of mastitis in dairy goats ranges between 5% and 30%, with Staphylococcus spp., otherwise known as the coagulase-negative staphylococci, identified as the most frequent cause of infection. …
Websites
UGA-affiliated sites
Sustainable Agriculture at UGA Brings together information on sustainable agriculture including management intensive grazing and other resources.
UGA Department of Animal and Dairy Science Learn more about the animal and dairy science department at the UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences.
Commodity Teams at CAES Teams made up of research scientists and extension specialists work together to provide the latest technology and information for efficient, profitable production of some of Georgia's most valuable commodities.
External sites
American Sheep Industry Association National organization representing the interests of more than 82,000 sheep producers located throughout the U.S. The website features reports, hot topics, a research journal, online education, commercial resources, order forms for materials, and industry news.
Fort Valley State University Georgia Small Ruminant Research and Extension Center Information about facilities and topics offered at Fort Valley State University.
Georgia Dairy Goat Breeders Association A non-profit organization dedicated to helping owners of dairy goats and to the improvement of all dairy goat breeds. This site features membership application, officer details, calendar, member directory, information for kids, photo albums, articles, products, upcoming shows, and useful links.
Georgia Sheep An overview of sheep in Georgia, including production constraints and opportunities, breeds, feeding, health and safety, and research and education.
Southern Goat Producers Association Dedicated to learning more about goat husbandry as well as production of goat products such as milk, fiber, cheese, milk, and pet goats. The site offers a newsletter, calendar, meeting information, classifieds, and membership information.
-
GrassMasters New knowledge, new techniques offered to Georgia forage producers at UGA Extension GrassMasters.
-
Beginning Farmers Training Low-cost farm business, small-fruit production and small ruminant training offered this fall across Georgia.
-
Farmgate Value Report UGA's annual county-by-county survey allows the public and policy makers to get a clear picture of Georgia's agricultural value.
