Alternative Parasite Control Methods for Goat Producers: A Comparative Analysis

1999 Annual Report for FS99-093

Project Type: Farmer/Rancher
Funds awarded in 1999: $5,960.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/2001
Region: Southern
State: Florida
Principal Investigator:
Charles Johnson
C&M Farms

Alternative Parasite Control Methods for Goat Producers: A Comparative Analysis

Summary

In the southeastern United States, livestock producers tend to be single-owner farmers with limited acreage; meat goat producers are no exception. Most meat goat producers in the southeast, especially north Florida, are farming on far fewer acres than needed. This grazing on limited acreage often results in the tremendous problem of internal parasites. Parasitic infestation can have disastrous effects on the health of a goat herd and lead to decreased productivity and lower prices at the market. Consequently, small scale goat producers are constantly faced with the increasing costs of deworming their animals with expensive drugs. And many producers use chemical dewormers that are not even approved for goats. Because of the costs and the problem of parasite resistance to many man-made drugs, an alternative and inexpensive means to control parasites in goats is needed. This project will attempt to determine if diatomacious earth is a cost-effective and biologically effective method of controlling parasites in goats.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a natural, environmentally safe substance that has been used as a feed additive to control parasites in several animal species. In this project, the producer will determine if using DE in conjunction with pasture rotation, and limiting the use of chemical dewormers, will reduce the frequency of parasite infestation. He will also determine if deworming costs will be reduced when using DE by reducing the need for expensive chemical drugs.

In this project, 24 goats will be randomly assigned to three treatment groups. Each treatment group will be comprised of eight does. The three treatments will be: DE given as a feed supplement and deworming as needed; oral dewormer given and no DE; no dewormer or DE given.

Fecal and blood samples will be analyzed by cooperators at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) Research and Extension Center. They will also conduct a statistical analysis of the data.

Collaborators:

Angerla McKenzie-Jakes

Florida A&M University CES
Vonda Richardson

Florida A&M University CES
Pamela Hunter

Ag. Research
Florida A&M University