By Blake Jackson
The Pennsylvania Sheep and Wool Growers Association (PSWGA) will host its annual symposium and meeting on Saturday, October 19, 2024, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lebanon County Extension office in Lebanon, Pennsylvania.
This event is geared toward sheep producers, enthusiasts, and industry professionals, offering educational sessions, industry updates, and networking opportunities.
The day will begin with check-in and opening remarks from PSWGA President Dan Turner.
The schedule includes several key presentations, starting at 10 a.m. with Jillian Federoff from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
She will speak about market demands at New Holland, highlighting popular lamb types and ideal marketing periods.
At 10:30 a.m., David Scales, Executive Director of the National Sheep Improvement Program, will provide insight into genetic selection principles for flock improvement.
The association’s annual meeting will follow at 11 a.m., featuring industry updates and the crowning of the Pennsylvania Lamb and Wool Queen.
After lunch, Scales will continue his genetic selection discussion, focusing on long-term success in sheep operations.
Austin Brown from Penn State Extension will then share tips for preparing for breeding season at 2:30 p.m., followed by Chelsea Hill’s presentation on using flock records for better decision-making at 3:15 p.m.
The registration cost is $30 for members, $40 for nonmembers, and $15 for children ages 5-12. A family rate of $70 is available. Lunch is included, and pre-registration is recommended.
The registration brochure can be found on the Pennsylvania Sheep and Wool Growers Association website.
For more details, visit the PSWGA website or contact Austin Brown at aqb5615@psu.edu/ 814-865-1718 or Melanie Barkley at meh7@psu.edu/ 814-623-4800
Photo Credit: istock-globalp
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Goats & Sheep