By Andi Anderson
The Ohio Sheep Improvement Association has announced the 2025 Buckeye Shepherd’s Symposium, a signature learning and networking event for Ohio’s sheep and lamb community.
The symposium is designed for commercial and seedstock producers, new and established flock managers, youth participants, educators, and allied agribusiness partners who support the state’s growing small ruminant sector.
Attendees can expect practical, research-based sessions delivered by university specialists, experienced producers, veterinarians, and market analysts.
Planned topics typically include flock health, parasite control, nutrition and grazing strategies, genetics and selection, lambing management, wool quality, direct marketing, and risk management.
Program segments also highlight farm safety, recordkeeping, and business planning so families can make informed decisions throughout the production year.
A core emphasis is hands-on learning. Demonstrations often cover body condition scoring, fecal egg counting, vaccine protocols, shearing and wool handling, and low-stress animal handling. Breakout discussions give producers a chance to compare notes on facilities, feeder designs, and pasture rotations suitable for Ohio’s climate.
The symposium also serves as a hub for community building. Exhibitors and sponsors showcase equipment, feeds, health products, fencing, and pasture tools, while producer panels share takeaways from on-farm trials.
Students and beginning farmers benefit from mentorship opportunities and targeted sessions that explain career pathways and grant or cost-share programs.
Market outlook briefings help farms plan ahead. Speakers typically review price trends for lamb, cull ewes, and wool, outline packer demand and seasonal patterns, and discuss marketing channels from auction barns to freezer trade.
These insights help attendees align breeding, finishing, and marketing calendars with consumer demand.
Participants are encouraged to register in advance, as space is limited and some workshops may cap attendance. Accessibility accommodations are available with prior notice.
Details on agenda, speakers, location, lodging, and registration can be found on the event website hosted by the Ohio Sheep Improvement Association.
By gathering producers, students, and partners in one venue, the 2025 Buckeye Shepherd’s Symposium strengthens Ohio’s sheep industry with practical skills, up-to-date information, and new connections that carry back to the farm long after the event concludes. Early registrants may receive reduced rates and priority workshop selection where available.
Photo Credit: istock-globalp
Categories: Ohio, Livestock