Growing Interest In Goat Production

There seems to be a growing interest in goat production in Saskatchewan.

Rob Schill is President of the Saskatchewan Goat Breeders Association and says there’s lots of interest from new producers that are signing up to be a part of the organization.

He says that’s great to see, adding there is a bit more optimism in the industry going into the new year.

“I think prices are going to come back and be a good demand for the goat meat side of things going forward. Prices were depressed in the fall due to the drought and the selloff, but I think going forward things are looking up.”

Schill says prior to the selloff in the fall Saskatchewan’s goat numbers were at about 10,000 head.

The demand for more protein options is growing as the population becomes more diversified.

He says that growing consumer demand is key for Saskatchewan’s Goat Industry.

“We import 80% of what is consumed for goat meat in the country, there’s all kinds of demand for it. It’s a great industry for people with young families because its smaller animals, easier to handle.”

A Prairie Goat Symposium is being held this Saturday at Johnstone Auction Mart at Moose Jaw where producers will get more information on kidding, as well as feeding, grazing and hay production.