What to look for when buying breeding goats
Just like with sheep, fertile, good-quality goats are important for better production, healthy kids and good quality meat.
Choosing a breed that’s right for you
One of the first things beginner cattlemen want to know is: what’s the best beef breed to farm with? Leslie Bergh of the ARC provides a few broad guidelines.
The Dexter breed
A hardy, docile breed, the tiny Dexter is often favoured by smallholder farmers.
12 financial management rules for dairy farmers
Consultant Allan Penderis of Tammac Consultants says that while he can’t provide specific advice because he has not personally visited Nofisa Farm, Tammac’s 12 general rules are of value to all dairy farmers.
A balancing act with goats – 3
Goats are an easy-care option able to thrive under harsh conditions,
but they need some attention, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Making a go of goats – 2
Goats can be a money-spinner, but good stockmanship is essential for success, says Roelof Bezuidenhout.
The true value of goats – 1
Modern goat breeds offer many opportunities for value adding and are a reliable way of making a good profit, explains Roelof Bezuidenhout.
Contagious ecthyma or the orf virus
Orf is a contagious virus of sheep and goats that can be transmitted to humans, says Prof Cheryl McCrindle.
Good wool classing
Uniformity of staple length and fineness in the fleece is important when classing Merino wool.
Dealing with sheep scab – part 1
Sheep scab occurs in all provinces, and is a very serious disease that, if left untreated, can infect your whole herd and lead to stock deaths.
Better shearing
Merino wool is usually shorn when it has a good length, after 8 to 12 months of growth.
Check the condition of your herd
Over-fat cows can have problems with conception and at calving.
