Spring is here! Which means it’s getting warmer outside, there’s more daylight hours, pastures are growing, and you may have a lot to prepare for as a livestock producer. Be sure you are ready to tackle it all this spring!

Here’s some helpful resources for you!

• The Farm Risk Management Online Certificate – (INCLUDES A LIVESTOCK MODULE) This unique program from the University of Connecticut’s (UConn) College of Agriculture is FREE and focuses on one of today’s most critical topics for the agriculture industry, farm risk management. Farm risk management involves understanding and mitigating factors that can impact agricultural operations, such as climate change, pest management, and financial uncertainties. Through this grant-funded 12-module course you will gain knowledge and strategies to enhance the resilience and sustainability of your farm. Knowledge is the key. REGISTER HERE
• Did you happen to miss the HPAI Update for CT Livestock & Poultry Farmers Webinar on March 6^th? Don’t worry, it was recorded – Be sure to check it out here  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hxuV33JjqP8&t=2s
• An Online Discussion Group – A Conversation on Pasture and Climate Change – Wednesday, April 9^th –  An informal discussion to share experiences and ideas about pasture management in the face of climate change. Connect with fellow farmers and practitioners from Southern New England, discuss challenges, and explore solutions together.
• Do you have small ruminants? Our friends at Tufts University Field Service are hosting a FREE Virtual Parasite Management Event on Tuesday April 15^th! Be sure to check it out and register ahead of time.
• Looking for more information, you may be able to find it in one of our factsheets. UConn Extension launched a fact sheet page in March 2024 and is continuing to add publications. The purpose is to provide information on topics and issues our audiences are facing. Each fact sheet is reviewed by a subject-matter expert and then published here. All fact sheets undergo a mandatory review every five years. https://publications.extension.uconn.edu/publications/

Are you exhibiting your livestock at any of the regional shows or local Connecticut fairs this year?

• Be sure to stay up to date with exhibitor regulations. The 2025 CT Fair and Show Requirements should be posted soon. Stay tuned on the CT State Veterinarian’s webpage! https://portal.ct.gov/doag/regulatory/regulatory/state-veterinarian
• Schedule an appointment today with your veterinarian to complete all your springtime animal health needs whether that includes vaccinations, exams, testing, or getting a certificate of veterinary inspection (CVI), also known as a health certificate.
• Call and schedule your poultry testing with the CT Department of Agriculture (860) 713-2541

– MacKenzie White, Diversified Livestock Specialist, UConn Extension