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SDSU Extension welcomes new sheep and goat specialist

July 09, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to welcome Ryan Spurling as a new assistant professor and Small Ruminant Production Specialist.

small group of sheep standing in a pasture

Sheep & Goats

South Dakota ranks sixth nationally in sheep and wool production. And the industry is growing.

Red angus cattle gathered in a feedlot in winter.

Livestock

South Dakota is home to a dynamic livestock industry.

A group of brown cattle foraging in a green field.

As the first frost date approaches, producers often have concerns about the risk of prussic acid poisoning in livestock. Certain forage plants, especially sorghums and related species are associated with an increased risk of death loss because of prussic acid poisoning.

Small flock of sheep grazing in a pasture.

Using Livestock to Promote Healthy Rangelands

Fact sheet about using livestock to promote healthy rangelands

Navel Dips for Lambs and Kids

Treating umbilical cords with a navel dip at birth is recommended to ensure a healthy start for lambs and kids and preventing the occurrence of navel (joint) ill.

Row of sheep eating from a trough in a feedlot.

Waterbelly in Small Ruminants

Waterbelly (urolithiasis or urinary calculi) is a concern in male sheep and goats on high-concentrate rations. Knowing its symptoms, forms, and prevention strategies can help you make the best decisions for your flock.

blades of brome grass with a brown to black, thumbnail-shaped growth on one of the blades.

Ergot: A Potential Livestock Poisoning Problem

Cool, damp weather followed by warmer temperatures favors grasses becoming infected with ergot bodies, which can cause a certain kind of poisoning that can affect cattle on pasture.

How to Trim Sheep and Goat Hooves

Guide on how to trim sheet and goat hooves

Group of farm trainees gathered around a veterinarian.

Producing Safe Food Means On-Farm Antimicrobial Stewardship

Antibiotic stewardship and residue prevention programs can help establish trusting relationships with end users by ensuring safe, wholesome meat or dairy products on your farm.