Cornell Discussion Group on Commercial Small Ruminant Management Formed
Amy Barkley, Team Leader & Livestock Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

This discussion group was formed to connect sheep and goat farmers, extension staff, researchers, and service providers to share experiences and information on sheep and goat management. The group will focus on commercial production of all types including goat and sheep dairies, solar array grazers, traditional meat and fiber operations and grass-fed farms. This discussion group will meet virtually via ZOOM at 7:30 pm on the third Thursday of every month. The first meeting will be November 19th at 7:30 pm to focus on "winter feeding". If you are interested in participating in this discussion group, please fill out this online Google Form!
Your participation in this discussion group is greatly appreciated!
This program is being hosted by:
Dr. Michael L. Thonney
Cornell University
114 Morrison Hall
mlt2@cornell.edu
607-592-5891
Dr. tatiana Luisa Stanton
Cornell Small Ruminant Extension Specialist
tls7@cornell.edu
607-229-9066
Dr. Niko Kochendoerfer
Postdoctoral Associate
nk584@cornell.edu
607-279-3474
Upcoming Events
Livestock Production Field Day
August 29, 2026 : Livestock Production Field Day
Chaffee, NY and East Aurora, NY,
Join us on visits to Horizon Ridge Farm in East Aurora and Troll Bridge Farm in Chaffee for an introduction to small beef and small diversified livestock enterprises. Through walking farm tours, attendees will learn about management, meat processing, setting prices, and finding local markets. Dinner will be provided. Register by contacting Amy Barkley at amb544@cornell.edu or 716-640-0844.
Poultry Processing Workshop, Naples, NY
September 17, 2026 : Poultry Processing Workshop - Naples, NY
Naples, NY
This program is one of four statewide roadshow stops across the state, offering farmers a full poultry processing experience. The class will teach skills that build confidence, reduce costs, and strengthen your farm's independence. This hands-on workshop gives farmers the chance to process a bird from start to finish, learning every step of the workflow used by small farms across the state.
Large Animal Awareness Training For First Responders
September 19, 2026
Dunkirk, NY
Join the Chautauqua County Technical Rescue Services and NYS Veterinarian, Dr. Kate Card-Allen, for a specialized training on how to safely and effectively respond to large animal incidents. Learn techniques for managing large animals during traffic accidents, rollovers, entrapments and other transportation emergencies.
Announcements
No announcements at this time.





