Sheep producers interested in learning how to increase lambing rates to respond to the growing consumer market for lamb are invited to attend the "Accelerated Lambing Clinic," presented by Michigan State University Extension small ruminant specialist Richard Ehrhardt, Nov. 6 from noon to 4:30 p.m.

The half-day clinic will be divided into two segments: the first session will take place at Springport High School (300 W. Main St., Springport) from noon to 2 p.m. and the second session will take place from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at Ehrhardt's farm (6280 Kinneville Rd., Eaton Rapids).

"Lamb prices are at a record high and have been strong for several years," Ehrhardt says. "These market conditions have led sheep producers to wonder how they can increase their production capacity so that they can market more lambs throughout the year.

"Accelerated lambing is a production system that can help producers efficiently increase their production capacity while overcoming the gaps in lamb supply that occurs with annual production systems," he adds.

The clinic will cover production systems, the theory and reality of production numbers, managing nutrition, managing reproduction, animal health, the genetics of seasonality, and facilities.There will also be a tour of an accelerated lambing operation.

Though there is no cost to attend the clinic, participants should register by Nov. 1 so that clinic organizers can plan for the appropriate number of participants. Proceedings will be available following the event for $10 per copy.

To register, contact Carla McLachlan in the MSU Department of Animal Science by calling 517-432-5402 or sending an e-mail to [email protected] with name, address, telephone number and/or e-mail address.

Those who order a copy of the proceedings may send check or money order payable to  Michigan State University, to the MSU Animal Science Department, Attn. Carla McLachlan, 1290 Anthony Hall, East Lansing, MI 48824.

The Accelerated Lambing Clinic is supported by MSU Extension.