SAN ANTONIO — A Gathering of Goat Producers is scheduled July 21-23 at the Guadalupe County Fairgrounds & Coliseum in Seguin, and industry vendors are invited to participate in a trade show portion of the event.
According to Dr. Rick Machen, conference coordinator, trade show participants promote goods and services related to goat production and include feed companies, producer associations and animal health companies. He called the conference “a unique opportunity to interact with more than 400 meat goat producers from Texas and other states.”
Vendors interested in exhibiting can reserve several kinds of spaces, including an outside vendor space for large-size displays such as trucks, trailers, and large equipment.
For more information, or to obtain the required exhibit space form, call Laurinda Boyd at (830) 278-6568. The form and payment are due by July 1.
Producers, exhibitors, and extension agents from a number of states are expected to attend the event organized by Texas Cooperative Extension. Industry leaders will serve as speakers and conduct demonstrations.
One of the most comprehensive programs offered to the meat goat industry, this event provides a practical forum for animal health and care, a review of the current state of the industry, and a close look at marketing issues.
“The meat goat industry has experienced unparalleled growth over the past decade,” said Machen, an Extension livestock specialist. “Our two previous gatherings have been called the best educational opportunities ever offered for those interested in meat goat production. This year’s program is just as strong, with a special full morning dedicated to meat goat marketing information. Five topics will be addressed, including selling live goats and a retailer’s perspective.”
First-day sessions include elements essential for success, the future of the junior market goat program and live animal evaluation.
Second-day sessions will cover nutrition, reproduction and health, facilities and fencing, environmental stewardship, predator management and an introduction to goat marketing. Following a barbecued goat dinner, there will be Open Line Time, where a panel of producers and industry professionals will answer all types of questions.
Third-day sessions will be focus on the marketing of goat meat. Topics include selling live goats, the dot-com approach, selling a processed product, a retailer’s perspective, and the East Coast market.
For further information about the event, contact your local Extension agent or Machen at (830) 278-9151 or by e-mail, r-machen@tamu.edu
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