Raise a Market Goat for Show

SAE:

Description:

Market meat goats are an excellent Animal Science SAE for the students with limited land resources. Goats can be kept in the backyard or any small lot or pasture. It is best to provide them with a mixture of pasture and browse to keep feed costs to a minimum. A small holding pen, with a plywood shelter from the rain and sun, is needed for catching the goats and performing management practices. A single strand of electric fence can be used to keep the goats contained.

Many goat shows are now available for competition throughout the state. Most market meat goats are shown in classes by weight. Also purebred classes are becoming more popular. Showmanship classes test the students' ability to exhibit their training skills.

A market goat prospect may be found at many reputable breeders across the state. Purebred goat breeders also have become quite prevalent. Prices for the goats may vary from each individual breeder. Most are willing to sell their goats for a fair market price. Always shop around for the best combination of quality and price.

Goats require very little to maintain their health. Much information is available through extension veterinarian offices. Consult them for a good health program. The main concern is keeping down internal parasites. Also neighboring dogs can present quite a challenge for the goat owner.

Factors To Consider	Ranking: 1 = lowest 10 = highest
Time required	4
Investment	3
Equipment needed	3
Skills required	4
Facilities required	2
Land required	1
Labor Intensity	6
Potential for income	3
Transportation required	5
Expansion possibilities	8
Expertise needed	6
Advertising needed	2
Susceptible to disease	5
Susceptible to insects	3
Suitable for residential areas	8
	Other (specify)
Length of production cycle	Year round
Regional	No
When to start project	Anytime