July 26, 2009 — Goat breeding is the fastest growing livestock industry in the nation. Goat meat, milk, and fibers are now more popular commodities than in the past.

To help progress health measures in the industry, the National Agricultural Statistics Service, a division of the United States Department of Agriculture, is conducting a study of goat operations in 21 states.

Rogers County breeders are included in the study.

Benefits of participating in the survey will allow producers to obtain useful information in managing their businesses. A participant could potentially receive free testing of herds for diseases and parasites, and guidance in prevention and treatment.

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Diane Dickinson said most of the illnesses goats are susceptible to are transmissible to other animals and sometimes even humans.

“Flock management is really important and pasture rotation, which is moving them periodically to clean pastures. There has been particularly a challenge with foot diseases that are transmitted by bacteria and fungi this year, because of wet condition. Rotating is the best cure, but a lot of times it can take some modern medicine tools, antibiotics and foot baths. The best management is to institute quality measures on a regular consistent basis,” said Dickinson.

The first measure when purchasing a goat is to keep it quarantined and watch for signs of sickness. Do not introduce the animal to the herd until it has a clean bill of health.

A healthy animal will produce healthy products, so the study’s objective is to develop measures to insure safe management practices through proper nutrition and to control incidents of disease and parasites.

The compiled information from the surveys will be used to conduct economic evaluations, educate producers, help policymakers make knowledgeable decisions and further medical treatment research.

A variety of goods is supplied from goats.

Goat meat is comparable to lamb or venison in flavor depending on the age of the animal. It is red meat, but has less fat and is lower in cholesterol than beef. The meat is often stewed, curried or fried, but can be grilled or baked. Slow cooking is recommended for tenderness. Goat meat should be processed at a certified meat facility.

Goat milk is an alternative for people allergic to cow milk. The molecules in goat milk are smaller and easier for the digestive track to breakdown. The structure is closer to human milk than cow milk, but does contain lactose, so it can be intolerant to lactose sensitive individuals. It is naturally homogenized, meaning the cream remains mixed in the milk, although with time it may separate to some degree. A nanny can produce 3 to 4 quarts of milk daily. The milk should be pasteurized before consuming.

Other goods produced with goat milk are cheese and butter, soap, lotio n and household cleaning supplies.

The hide and hair of goats is used for a wide array of products, like kid leather gloves and bedding.

“The pelts make great rugs, wall decoration or inside lining for coats, boots and hats,” said Dickinson

Mohair is from Angora goats and is used for down or spun into yarn. A goat is shorn twice a year for a yield of about 10 pounds at each shearing. Cashmere is the most expensive natural fiber, because only about 9 ounces a year can be collected from the goat. When processed correctly goat wool does not shrink or itch.

Goats generally live 15 to 20 years. They are intelligent and can be trained to pull a cart or carry packs, but can be stubborn if not handled properly.

They have a reputation for eating everything, but that is because they are curious and investigate new textures with their upper lip. They prefer shrubbery and leaves and will not eat much else when it is abundant. Historically, goats have been used worldwide as food, clothing and working beasts. The bones were shaped into tools. The hides were used as wine and water bottles and the dung was used for fuel. In past decades in America their use has been ignored, but now goats have made a comeback.

State inventory numbers will be posted at www.nass.usda.gov/ok.

Goat breeders who are interested in participating in the study should contact Oklahoma Field Office State Director Wilbur Hundl at (405) 522-6190.