Parasite Patrol Tour Helps Farmers Improve Sheep and Goat Health

By Andi Anderson

Sheep and goat producers face many challenges in maintaining healthy animals, and parasites remain one of the most costly concerns.

To help farmers improve livestock health and manage parasite problems more effectively, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension have launched the 2026–2027 Parasite Patrol Tour.

The educational workshop series is designed to provide practical, science-based training for sheep and goat producers. The program aims to help farmers move away from routine, schedule-based deworming practices and adopt more targeted approaches based on animal health data and parasite monitoring.

Parasites can reduce animal performance, affect growth, lower productivity, and increase production costs. Over time, many parasites have developed resistance to commonly used deworming treatments. As a result, traditional methods are becoming less effective, making improved management strategies increasingly important for livestock operations.

The Parasite Patrol Tour focuses on teaching producers how to make informed decisions to protect their flocks and herds. Participants will learn about parasite life cycles and understand the periods when sheep and goats are most vulnerable to infection. This knowledge can help farmers take preventive measures at the right time.

Another important topic covered during the workshops is dewormer resistance. Producers will learn how resistance develops and why repeated use of the same treatments may reduce their effectiveness. Understanding these risks can help farmers create more sustainable parasite control programs.

The training also includes hands-on instruction in fecal egg counting, an important tool for monitoring parasite levels in livestock. By learning how to interpret fecal egg counts, producers can make targeted treatment decisions and avoid unnecessary use of deworming products. This approach supports healthier animals while helping reduce input costs.

The tour officially begins on Aug. 4, 2026, at the ISU Extension and Outreach Winneshiek County office in Decorah, Iowa. Participants are encouraged to bring fresh fecal samples collected from their sheep or goats within 24 hours before the training and kept cool for accurate analysis during workshop activities.

Through practical demonstrations and expert guidance, the Parasite Patrol Tour provides valuable knowledge for both new and experienced livestock producers. By adopting modern parasite management practices, farmers can improve long-term flock and herd performance, reduce treatment challenges, and support the overall health and productivity of their animals.

Photo Credit: istock-globalp