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Sheep Update
Livestock Update, March 2006
Dr. Scott P. Greiner Extension Animal Scientist, Sheep, VA Tech
2006 Virginia Ram Lamb Performance Test
Nominations are currently being accepted for the 2006 Virginia Ram Lamb Performance Test to be conducted at the Virginia Sheep Evaluation Station located at the Shenandoah Valley Agriculture Research and Extension Center near Steeles Tavern. The test is open to sheep breeders in Virginia, and both registered and crossbred rams may be tested. Rams will be delivered to the test station May 2, and after a two week adjustment period, will be placed on gain test for 63 days. In addition to measurement of growth performance, rams will be evaluated for carcass traits with ultrasound during the test, and DNA genotyping will be conducted for spider syndrome and scrapie resistance. Eligible rams will sell on August 26. Rams born September 1, 2005 to February 28, 2006 are eligible. For rules and regulations, as well as entry forms contact Scott Greiner at 540-231-9163.
Virginia Performance Ram Lamb Test and Sale Expense Summary 2003-05
| 2005 | 2004 | 2003 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Test Costs | |||
| Feed | $42.96 | $59.86 | $53.58 |
| Yardage | $5.00 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Codon 171/Spider Genotyping | $22.80 | $16.00 | $16.00 |
| Vet/Medical | $9.12 | $0.57 | $7.04 |
| Misc. | $6.13 | $2.60 | $5.26 |
| Total Test Costs | $86.01 | $84.03 | $86.88 |
| Sale Costs | |||
| Shearing | $5.00 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Advertising, auctioneer, mailings, etc. | $16.44 | $16.51 | $16.04 |
| Registration Transfer | $5.00 | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| VA Check-off | $0.50 | $0.50 | $0.50 |
| Total Sale Expenses | $26.94 | $27.01 | $26.54 |
| Average Sale Price | $324.78 | $415.11 | $349.13 |
| Total Test & Sale Expenses | $112.95 | $111.04 | $113.42 |
| Average Net to Consignor | $211.83 | $304.07 | $235.71 |