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Small Ruminant Parasite Management Intensive – Saco

October 18 @ 9:00 am - 3:00 pm

| $50 – $100

Sunday, October 18, 2026
9 a.m.–3 p.m.
The Ecology School / Riverbend Farm
184 Simpson Rd, Saco, Maine

Cost: $50–$100, sliding scale

Register Online

Producers of small ruminants, including sheep, goats, llamas and alpacas, are invited to attend this workshop to learn about common parasites and strategies for managing them.

Participants also will learn about the risks, prevention and management of meningeal worm, a mysterious and often deadly parasite.

Hands-on activities will help producers identify parasites and make informed management decisions. Activities include performing fecal egg counts using a microscope, practicing the FAMACHA protocol for barber pole worm on live animals, and setting up a Baermann apparatus.

Farmers are encouraged to bring a fresh fecal sample from one animal to examine. Participants will become FAMACHA certified and may purchase an anemia index card at the workshop upon certification.

Lunch will be provided.

Who should attend

This workshop is designed for sheep and goat farmers, beginning livestock producers, and anyone interested in improving herd health management and parasite control practices.

Learning outcomes

Participants will learn to:

  • Identify major internal parasites affecting small ruminants, including lungworms and meningeal worm, and describe their life cycles, transmission routes and impacts on animal health.
  • Recognize common signs of parasitic disease and anemia and evaluate animal risk using observation and assessment tools.
  • Perform and interpret basic parasite diagnostic techniques, including fecal egg counts, FAMACHA scoring and Baermann testing.
  • Explore the principles of parasite resistance and targeted treatment strategies to reduce unnecessary dewormer use.
  • Understand pasture and grazing management practices that reduce parasite exposure and support animal health.
  • Understand the risks, prevention and management options for meningeal worm and lungworm in susceptible livestock species.
  • Gain confidence in making evidence-based parasite management decisions to improve herd or flock health and productivity.

Agenda

Part 1

  • 9–9:15 a.m. Welcome and introductions
  • 9:15–10:30 a.m. Common parasites, integrated approaches to management and prevention, and introduction to FAMACHA
  • 10:30–11 a.m. How to use a microscope and perform fecal egg counts
  • 11 a.m.–noon Fecal egg count exercise
  • Noon–12:30 p.m. FAMACHA practice on live animals
  • 12:30–1 p.m. Lunch

Part 2

  • 1–3 p.m. Meningeal worm management and lungworm Baermann diagnostic technique

Participation in individual parts

Participants who have previously participated in either Part 1 or Part 2 as a standalone workshop may join for a portion of the course. Please contact Dr. Rachel White at rachel@maine.edu to make arrangements.

For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact Sue Baez at sue.baez@maine.edu or 207-667-8212.

Details

Venue

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