Purdue Extension to host dairy goat forage, cheese workshop

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Purdue Extension will host a June 6 field day in Spiceland for current and aspiring dairy goat and llama producers to learn more about resources for managing their farms.

The Forage Small Dairy and Cheese Field Day program will run from 9:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Redbud Farm, 7052 S. County Road 425 W.

Morning sessions will focus on various topics, including grazing management, the Driftwatch and SARE programs, and the use of llamas as guard animals. Participants will tour the farm and cheese/dairy facilities during the afternoon session.

Field day speakers include Roy Ballard, Purdue Extension; Cindy Newkirk and Kellie Riggs, Hancock and Henry County Soil and Water Conservation Districts; Robert Zupancic, Natural Resources Conservation Service; and Mike and Jessica Hoopengardner of Redbud Farm.

The program is free, but participants are asked to register so enough information packets, take-home materials and lunch will be available. To register contact Newkirk at 317-462-2283, ext. 3, cindynewkirk@in.nacdnet.net or Riggs at 765-529-2303, ext. 3, kellie.riggs@in.nacdnet.net

More information and a registration form can be downloaded from Purdue Extension Hancock County's website at http://www3.ag.purdue.edu/counties/hancock/Pages/default.aspx