PSVI-34 Producing organic fall lamb using an out-of-season breeding scheme for hair sheep

Abstract The seasonality of lamb production affects lamb markets and prices. Whereas, an out-of-season breeding and organic fall lamb production scheme may enhance product availability and competitiveness. Six rams and 100 Katahdin ewes were selected for an out-of-season breeding during April and May. Ewes were synchronized for estrus using CIDR® device (EaziBreed™) before breeding and fed ‘flushing’ feed for four weeks. Ewes were bred in mixed sire groups for two estrus cycles (35d). Animals were rotationally grazed and maintained good body condition score (3.0) throughout the seasons at certified organic farm in Missouri. Mean live weight measured monthly from breeding to lambing were 57.8, 60.1, 62.1, 64.7 and 59.3 kg, and July’s weight was (