Wednesday, July 4, 2007

July 3rd

KEEDYSVILLE, MD -- The goats were moved to a 2-acre field of orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) a few days ago. While this field is still green and reasonably "lush," the pastures continue to be starved for rain. Little rain fell in June at the research center. It goes without saying that pasture conditions are deterioriating. On the plus side, temperatures have been mild in recent days, conducive to the goats grazing more.

goats grazing orchardgrass pasture
goats seeking shelter in port-a-huts
goats standing on troughs
The goats will be worked on Friday, July 6. Body condition (BCS) and FAMACHA© eye anemia scores will be determined. A second fecal sample (day 28) will be collected to determine fecal egg counts (worm eggs per gram of feces).

The goats are healthy and have required little intervention.