Forage choices

KEEDYSVILLE, MD -- The goats are currently grazing a 2-acre field of chicory (Cichorium intybus L.). Though we are not collecting any data pertaining to the grazing of chicory, chicory is purported to reduce parasitic infections in small ruminants. Chicory contains sesquiterpene lactones and condensed tannins, compounds which are believed to inhibit the development of parasites by interfering with egg hatching and larval development. They may also improve protein digestion.


Chicory is a relatively new forage crop in the U.S. It produces leafy growth which can be higher in nutritive and mineral content (if managed properly) than alfalfa or cool-season grasses. The goats seem to like it.

A field of pearl millet (Pennisetum americanum) has been planted to improve summer grazing. Pearl millet is a warm season annual grass. Ninety percent of its growth occurs in June, July, and August. The field is enclosed in electric netting and will eventually be grazed by the goats.