Location: Fruit and Tree Nut Research
2023 Annual Report
Objectives
1. Evaluate small ruminant production efficiency outcomes in managed grazing platforms within fruit and nut orchards.
2. Assess the impact of managed orchard grazing strategies on animal health and well-being.
3. Evaluate the influence of small ruminant grazing strategies on plant and soil productivity and health.
Approach
The quality and yield of small ruminant meat products will be monitored following various orchard grazing regimes and diet components. Animal health and parasite load will be assessed, and novel approaches to alleviate parasite pressure will developed based on biological control methodology. Pecan tree and soil health will be evaluated following various grazing regimes including aspects of soil compaction and fertility, leaf nutrition, gas exchange, nut yield, and nut quality.
Progress Report
Installation of a perimeter fence is complete. The fence is approximately 4.4. acres (1,703 ft) with two 10’ gates. The inner fence is approximately 2.2 acres (1,361 ft) with two 10’ gates and quartered off with a 10’x10’ shelter with four 4’ gates in the center. Fencing is equipped with high tensile electric wire to keep intruders out and small ruminants (i.e. goats) in. With increasing costs of fertilizers and herbicides, alternate approaches of orchard management are needed. Small ruminants may contribute to soil and tree health via increased soil organic matter, nutrients, and weed control. This will allow for the study on enhancing the integration of small ruminant grazing into pecan production.
Enhanced collaboration with partners, Fort Valley State University by hold several on-site meetings to discuss plans for the project. Institutional animal care and use committee (IACUC) documentation is underway and expected to be in place within a few weeks.
One postdoctoral Scholar (horticulture) and one Biological Science Technician (Limited appointment, animal care), have been hired and an additional postdoc (parasitology) is expected within the month.
Accomplishments
