CANTON – Cornell Cooperative Extension of St. Lawrence County is organizing carpooling from Canton to Plattsburgh for a June 25 workshop on livestock parasite control.

Livestock parasites have become increasingly resistant to many of the anti-parasitic drugs. CCE Livestock Educator and workshop instructor Betsy Hodge says internal parasites – commonly known as worms – are the number one problem affecting small ruminants.

The workshop, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., includes a lecture, lab and on-farm components in teaching farmers how to identify and treat only those animals that need treatment.

“Sheep, goats, alpacas and llamas are more susceptible to internal parasites than other livestock due to their grazing behavior,” Hodge says. “A small percentage of animals carry most of the parasites on a farm, but producers can no longer rely on de-worming alone for control. A more integrated approach is necessary.”

Pre-registration is required. The $40 fee per farm for materials, lab supplies and lunch can be paid the day of workshop. Additional attendees from the same farm will be charged $5 for lunch.

Register with Peter Hagar at CCE Clinton County, (518) 561-7450.

For more information and to carpool from CCE St. Lawrence County in Canton to the Plattsburgh workshop, contact Hodge at 379-9192 or bmf9@cornell.edu.

You can learn more about regional livestock production on the Northern New York Agricultural Development Program website at www.nnyagdev.org.