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Dr. Víctor Manuel Díaz Sánchez, newly appointed Country Representative for Mexico, sent us a country report.
1. Introduction Mexico currently has approximately 8,840,467 goats, according to official Mexican government censuses, placing it among the top 13 goat-producing countries in the world. Within the Americas, it ranks second only behind Brazil. Globally, Mexico is currently among the top 25 goat meat and milk producers, with an approximate annual production volume of 41,034 tons of meat. Regarding milk, it is estimated that Mexico contributes 0.85% of global production, with an approximate annual output of 169,204,000 liters. 2. Distribution in Mexico Goats were not present in Mexican territory. It was during the period known as the "Spanish Conquest" that this species arrived in Mexico, and from then on, goats spread throughout the country. Currently, the states of Puebla and Oaxaca account for 25% of the country's goat population, with just over 2 million animals, followed by the states of San Luis Potosí, Zacatecas, and Coahuila, which together account for other 25%. The rest of the states have populations of fewer than 600,000 animals, with some states, such as Chiapas and Mexico City, having populations as low as "Insignificant" in censuses. In terms of milk production, Coahuila is the national leader in goat milk production, followed by areas in Guanajuato and Durango. In meat production, Zacatecas, San Luis Potosí, Coahuila, and Puebla together account for 42% of goat meat production, primarily for kid goat production, while the Mixteca region (Oaxaca, Puebla, Guerrero) stands out for its traditional production, also focused on meat. It is important to say that goat farming in Mexico is concentrated mainly in the arid and semi-arid regions of the north and central parts of the country, where conditions are favorable for extensive grazing due to the species' hardiness and browsing ability in these areas.
4. Mexican Breeds The Criollo Negra goat, also known as the Querétaro Black goat, is found in areas such as the Bajío and Querétaro. It is characterized by its black coat, adaptation to arid climates, and ability to graze in areas with scarce food and water. It is considered a dual-purpose animal (meat and milk), exhibiting great maternal instincts. It typically has a long, deep body, frequently with wattles. The white pastoral goat is another native zoogenetic resource of the Mixteca region in Mexico. It is characterized by its white coat, adaptability to mountainous terrain, and is fundamental to the local economy of this region. It is raised mainly under extensive and transhumant grazing systems. It is primarily used for meat production, which is closely linked to the region's culture. The Creole goat of Guerrero is a highly hardy goat breed, important to the economy and diet of the Montaña and Costa Grande regions of the state. It is characterized by its adaptation to tropical climates, ability to survive in difficult terrain, black or varied coat color, with high fertility. They are slender animals with a convex profile, long ears, also with wattles. Primarily raised for meat production, it is one of the main livestock species in Guerrero. The Veracruz Creole goat is a valuable genetic resource. A medium-sized breed, it is also highly hardy, adapted to tropical climates, resistant to disease, and capable of foraging in difficult terrain. It is considered a dual-purpose animal (meat and milk) with high variability. It adapts very well to heat, water scarcity, and mountainous terrain. It exhibits great diversity in color, horn shape, and ear shape. They often have wattles. In addition to these three breeds considered Mexican zoogenetic resources; most of the goat population in Mexico is considered Creole and is managed by the social sector (80% of producers), with a diet based on grazing in communal areas and browsing on local shrubs. 5. Goat Production Systems in Mexico Intensive System. This system is highly mechanized and requires significant capital investment. It is primarily located in the Comarca Lagunera region, the Bajío region, and central Mexico. Focused on milk production, it utilizes specialized breeds (e.g., Saanen, Alpine, Toggenburg) in confinement, with rigorous feeding and health control. The production cycle aims for maximum efficiency, often with 8-month cycles, with the goal of obtaining up to three offspring in two years. It allows for higher milk production than extensive systems, with greater quality control. These systems are generally better integrated into value chains, transforming milk into cheeses and other dairy products. Extensive System. The extensive goat production system in Mexico is a traditional activity, predominant in arid and semi-arid zones. It is characterized by grazing on rangelands, high utilization of native vegetation (scrubland, shrubs), and low investment. It is important primarily for meat production and, to a lesser extent, milk production, adapting to adverse conditions. Traditionally, the herds graze during the day and return to makeshift corrals. Detailed production records are not kept in this system. Although it is low-tech, it is an important source of income and food security in marginalized rural areas. The transhumant goat production system in Mexico is practiced in the Mixteca region (Oaxaca/Guerrero) and semi-arid zones. It is an extensive, low-input model. It consists of the seasonal movement of herds to graze native vegetation in forests and lowland jungles, optimizing forage and water throughout the year. It can be local or inter-community, moving the animals between mountainous and flat areas to take advantage of seasonal forage availability. Two types of "groups" or herds are distinguished: slaughter herds (fattening, 6 months of restricted grazing) and breeding herds (long-term free-range grazing). They are based on traditional knowledge of rangelands. This system is distinguished by its adaptation to the environment and by being a traditional form of livestock farming that, in addition to production, helps manage the ecosystem through grazing. Finally, the silvopastoral system in Mexico is a sustainable practice carried out mainly in Puebla, Oaxaca, San Luis Potosí, and Coahuila. It takes advantage of diverse forage, reduces costs, mitigates climate change, and improves soil fertility. It focuses on meat production. It integrates goat production with forest conservation, improving the rancher's economic and environmental sustainability.
6. Main Products Obtained Kid Goat. This is particularly prominent in the north and central regions of the country (Zacatecas, Nuevo León, La Laguna, San Luis Potosí), driven by culinary tradition and the adaptation of breeds such as Boer, Nubian, and Criolla. Birria (Mexican stew). Originating in Jalisco in the 16th century, mole is a national culinary staple, traditionally made with goat meat marinated in a chili and spice adobo and slow-cooked. It emerged in Cocula as a way to utilize goat meat by slow cooking it with aromatic herbs. Traditionally, it is prepared in an earthen oven or pit, covered with maguey leaves. It is served in a consommé or in tacos. Jalisco, Michoacán, Aguascalientes, Zacatecas, and Colima are famous for their traditional production. Mole de caderas (hip mole). This dish from the Mixteca region (Puebla, Oaxaca, and Guerrero) is made with goat hips and spine. It is primarily consumed in October and November, linked to the tradition of goat slaughter, and is characterized by a rich broth and local herbs. Chito. This is a traditional snack consisting of dried and salted goat meat. It is mainly consumed in southern Mexico. It is characterized by its tough meat, often attached to the bone, which is sun-dried and then seasoned. It is sold in small plastic bags as a street snack. In the Mazatec tradition of Oaxaca, a stew of seasoned goat meat (rib or leg) is also known as "caldo de chito." Cajeta. This is a traditional Mexican sweet made with goat's milk boiled with sugar until caramelized. It is characterized by its soft milk caramel, with varieties such as burnt, rum-flavored, or vanilla. Its main producers include Guanajuato, Coahuila, and Durango. Cheeses. Goat cheese in Mexico is a widely consumed artisanal and commercial product, valued for being rich in protein and calcium and easier to digest. The texture is usually soft, creamy, and spreadable, ideal for salads, desserts, or eating on its own.Piel. Goat leather in Mexico is a high-quality material, valued for its flexibility, softness, and resistance to wear, making it ideal for fine leather goods, footwear, jackets, and linings. León, Guanajuato, is the main center for production and tanning. It is widely used in cowboy boots, wallets, handbags, gloves, and clothing.
7. The Goat in Mexican Culture The goat occupies a prominent place in Mexican culture, not as a native animal, but as a fundamental element introduced during the viceroyalty period that became deeply integrated into the country's landscapes, gastronomy, and traditions. Goat farming is especially important in northern and central Mexico, making goats and their products part of the culinary and economic identity in states such as Nuevo León, Coahuila, Guerrero, and Oaxaca. This influence is reflected in gastronomy, ecology, language, and folklore. In certain areas, goats are associated with local legends, even linked to representations of the devil in traditional dances. Another example is the pastoral goat, whose hide and horns are used in the Dance of the Devils, thus representing the income of many families in the region. 8. Health Challenges Goat farming in Mexico faces significant health challenges, mainly related to infectious diseases. Animal health is crucial not only for productivity but also for preventing zoonoses and ensuring the sector's profitability. Main Goat Health Challenges in Mexico: • Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses: Brucellosis remains a public and animal health concern. Other important infectious diseases include contagious ecthyma, toxoplasmosis, and enzootic abortion. • Parasitic Diseases: Internal and external parasites are a constant problem, exacerbated by resistance to dewormers due to their indiscriminate use. • Impact of Drought and Nutrition: The lack of forage and water resulting from droughts weakens the immune system of goats, making them more susceptible to disease. • Milking and Rearing Management: Poor hygiene during milking and inadequate facility management promote infections and animal welfare problems. • Metabolic Diseases: Hypocalcemia is common in dairy goats, causing weakness and collapse.
9. References
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 Héctor Andrade (México)
I will speak of Javier from the beginning of how I met him and the best memories I have of him. Javier could be described with one word, in capital letters: PASSION - passion for everything he did, especially goats, cheese, and family. I met Javier in the mid-90s, around 1992 to 1994. At that time, we were organizing various events, and our main goal was to found the National Association of Registered Goats. Back then, there were few goat breeders' associations, and in some states, none at all. We were generally small producers, and we were scattered. There had already been attempts to establish centers for goat farming, such as Tlahualilo, which was a genetic improvement center. People like Luis Portilla, a friend of Javier's father and his mentor, participated in Tlahualilo. From a very young age, he traveled with his father to the United States to buy livestock and attend ADGA (American Dairy Goat Association) conferences and livestock shows. On these trips, Javier attended to learn about morphological evaluation, while Luis Portilla, an engineer, was already an ADGA-certified goat judge. His father was one of the people who instilled in him a love and passion for goat farming. He had organized the first livestock shows with goat participation in Guanajuato. Since that time (1992-1995), we had already formed a group of goat farmers from various states of México who organized regional fairs and livestock training workshops. From this arose the interest in forming a national association of registered goats that would provide various services. This association was founded in Apaseo el Grande, Guanajuato, and was presided by José Olivero. Javier always participated enthusiastically in the training and activities of the association, such as genealogical records, production control, and so on. It was clear that if we didn't organize ourselves, we would never achieve anything. I participated as an animal nutrition consultant, and at each meeting we held (every month at different farms), Javier contributed and discussed how things should be done according to his ideas. The Association, through negotiations with the state and national governments, enabled a group of ranchers from Apaseo to travel to Europe, primarily to France, to learn about production systems and cheesemaking. Javier arranged a stay in France, where he learned different cheesemaking techniques, which led him to own one of the most prestigious goat cheese dairies in México (Quesos Chaurand). In the late 2000s, he organized one of the most important events in regional goat farming: the Cheese, Goat, and Cajeta Fair, with the participation of ANCCR and AMGCR. This event was held annually, featuring cheesemaking courses, morphological competitions, judging courses, goat forums, and more, which helped to raise the profile of this activity. Livestock farmers from across the country, various Latin American countries, and cheesemakers always participated. There were cultural events, gastronomic courses, and scientific and discussion forums, in which many researchers from around the world participated, including Dr. Le Jauen, a cheesemaking expert; Isidoro Jiménez, a master cheesemaker from the Canary Islands; and researchers such as Marichu Fresno from the Canary Islands, Sergio Álvarez, Juan Capote, Juan Manuel Micheo, Juan Vicente Delgado Bermejo, and Mongers, among others. Cheesemakers like Lee Salas from Perú and Carlos Yesas from México, among many others, also played a key role in the transformation of this industry into a modern and highly regarded goat farming sector. Javier, in addition to being a goat farmer and cheesemaker, was a goat judge in various parts of the Americas, including Venezuela, Colombia, and Costa Rica. He had the gift of transmitting his passion to everyone who knew him. Wherever he went, he would always take the microphone and share his experiences, and when it came to cheese, he would talk about the expertise he had learned from the French. Being with him always sparked discussions in which he shared his perspective, but these discussions always ended positively. In his role as an organizer, he not only arranged goat and cheese fairs but also courses with renowned experts like José Luis Martín, the Spanish cheese affineur, which allowed us to continuously improve our techniques and products. Javier was always giving of himself. Among his last contributions to the industry was his role in founding the Mexican Association of Cheesemakers (ASMEQUESO). His family always came first. His wife, Mónica, his daughters, María José and Cosset, and more recently, his granddaughter, who was his princess. Often, his dedication to the business didn't allow him enough time for his family, but he managed to pass on that passion to them, ensuring a new generation would carry it on. I don't know what else to say. He was a great friend to me, with whom I had great ups and downs; we were equally stubborn, but in the end, everything always turned out well. Javier will be missed. Now who will I argue with? Who will I talk to about goats and cheeses with that same passion? Farewell, my friend. Hablaré de Javier desde como lo conocí y de los mejores recuerdos que tengo de él. A Javier lo podríamos describir con una palabra y en mayúsculas, PASION, pasión por todo lo que hacía, en especial las cabras, el queso y la familia. A Javier lo conocí a mediados de los 90, por 1992 a 94. En ese tiempo estábamos organizando diversos eventos y en especial la intención era el de fundar la Asociación Nacional de Caprinos de registro. Por aquella época existían pocas asociaciones ganaderas de caprinocultores, y en algunos estados no existían. En general éramos pequeños productores y estábamos dispersos; ya se habían intentado hacer centros de fomento a la caprinocultura como Tlahualilo, que era un centro de mejoramiento genético, en donde participaron personajes como el Ing. Luis Portilla, el cual fue amigo del padre de Javier y su mentor. Desde muy chico viajaba con él a Estados Unidos, para la compra de ganado y para asistir a las conferencias de la ADGA (American Dairy Goat Asssociation) y a las ferias ganaderas. En estos viajes Javier asistía para aprender de la evaluación morfológica, mientras que el Ing. Luis Portilla ya era Juez de caprinos certificado por la ADGA. Su padre fue uno de los personajes que le transmitió el gusto y pasión por la caprinocultura. Él había organizado las primeras ferias ganaderas con participación de caprinos en Guanajuato. Desde esos tiempos (1992-1995) ya habíamos formado un grupo de caprinocultores de diversos estados de la republica que organizábamos ferias regionales, y platicas de formación ganadera. A partir de esto nace el interés de formar una asociación nacional de ganado caprino de registro que proporcionara diversos servicios. Esta se funda en Apaseo el Grande Guanajuato, siendo presidida por el Lic. Jose Olivero. Javier siempre participó con mucho entusiasmo en la formación y en las actividades de dicha asociación, como los registros genealógicos, el control de producción, etc. Estaba claro que, si no nos organizábamos, nunca lograríamos nada. Yo participaba como asesor de Nutrición Animal y en cada reunión que teníamos (cada mes en diferentes granjas) Javier aportaba y discutía, sobre cómo deberían hacerse las cosas según sus planteamientos. La Asociación, por medio de gestiones con los gobiernos estatales y el nacional, permitieron que un grupo de ganaderos de Apaseo pudieran viajar a Europa principalmente a Francia, para conocer los sistemas de producción y la producción de quesos. Javier gestionó una estancia en Francia, en donde aprendió las diferentes técnicas de quesería, lo cual lo llevo a tener una de las queserías de cabra más prestigiadas en México (Quesos Chaurand). A finales de los años 2000 organizó uno de los eventos más importantes de la caprinocultura regional, que fue la Feria del Queso, La Cabra y La Cajeta, con la participación de la ANCCR y la AMGCR. Cada año se realizaba este evento, en el que se organizaban curso de quesería, concursos morfológicos, curso de juzgamientos, foros caprinos, etc, lo cual permitió que esta actividad fuera tomada en cuenta. Siempre participaban ganaderos del país, de diversos paises de América Latina y queseros. Había eventos culturales, cursos gastronómicos, y foros cientificos y de discusión, en los que participaron muchos investigadores de diversas partes del mundo como el Dr. Le Jauen, experto en queseriá, el maestro quesero canario Isidoro Jiménez, investigadores como Marichu Fresno de Canarias, Sergio Álvarez, Juan Capote, Juan Manuel Micheo, Juan Vicente Delgado Bermejo, Mongers etc. También queseros como Lee Salas de Perú y Carlos Yesas de México y muchos más, que permitieron el cambio en esta actividad hacia una caprinocultura moderna y de gran realce. Javier, además de caprinocultor y quesero, fue juez de caprinos en diversas partes de America, como Venezuela, Colombia, Costas Rica. Tenía el don de transmitir esa pasión a todos los que convivíamos con él. A donde fuera, siempre tomaba el micrófono y hablaba de sus experiencias y cuando era sobre quesos, hablaba del saber hacer que le enseñaron los Franceses. El estar con él siempre generaba discusiones en las que él mostraba su visión, pero esas discusiones siempre llegaban a buen fin. En su actividad como gestor, organizó no solo ferias del caprino y quesos. También cursos con exponentes de gran renombre como Jose Luis Martin, el afinador Español, que nos permitían siempre mejorar nuestras técnicas y productos. Javier se daba a los demás. Entre sus últimas participaciones en la organización del gremio fue parte de la fundación de la Asociacion Mexicana de Queseros (ASMEQUESO) Su familia siempre fue lo primero. Su esposa Mónica, sus hijas Maria Jose y Cosset, y más recientemente su nieta, la cual era su princesa. Muchas veces el volcarse en la actividad no permite darle el tiempos suficiente a la familia, pero el logró transmitirles esa pasión, teniendo un remplazo generacional. No sé qué más decir. Para mí fue un gran amigo, con el que tuve grandes encuentros y desencuentros, éramos igual de necios, pero al final siempre todo terminaba por un buen camino. Javier se extrañará. ¿Ahora con quien discutiré?, ¿con quien hablaremos de cabras con esa pasión y de los quesos? Hasta siempre Amigo Announcement on Convening the 14th International Conference on Goats (ICG2026) (First Announcement)2/12/2026   ICG2026 website Abstract submission To Relevant Universities, Research Institutes, Enterprises, and Institutions: Following the successful organization of previous International Conferences on Goats, which have served as an important global forum for advancing goat science and industry development, we are pleased to announce that the 14th International Conference on Goats (ICG2026) will be held from September 18 to 22, 2026, in Chongqing, China. ICG2026 is organized by the International Goat Association (IGA), co-organized by the Sheep and Goat Science Branch of Chinese Society of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, and hosted by and Southwest University. Building on the rich legacy of earlier ICG meetings, the conference will bring together researchers, educators, industry stakeholders, and policymakers from around the world to exchange the latest scientific advances, discuss emerging challenges, and promote the sustainable development of the global goat industry. The relevant matters and requirements of the conference are hereby notified as follows: I. Organizing Units 1. Organizer: International Goat Association (IGA) 2. Co-organizer: The Sheep and Goat Science Branch of Chinese Society of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine 3. Hosts: Southwest University 4. Supporting Organizations: China Agriculture Research System(CARS-38) China Agriculture Research System(CARS-39) Specialty Milk Professional Committee of China Dairy Association Chongqing Association of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science Chongqing Modern Agricultural Industry Technology System Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Herbivore Resource Protection and Utilization Chongqing Engineering Research Center of Higher Education for Herbivore Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivorous Livestock Innovation Alliance for Goat Breeding in Southwest China Black Goat Research Institute of Southwest University Updating... 5. Supported Journals (Open for application) Small Ruminant Research China Livestock and Poultry Breeding Updating... 6. Sponsors (Open for application) II. Conference Theme Goats: Pioneering Resilience Through Science, Sustainability, and Solidarity III. Conference Topics 1. Genetics, Genomics, and Breeding 2. Reproduction, Physiology, and Animal Welfare 3. Nutrition, Feeding Systems, and Feed Resource Utilization 4. Health Management and Disease Control 5. Goat Products (Meat, Fibre, Milk, and etc.) and Value Chain Development 6. Production Systems, Economics, and Sustainability IV. Participants Personnel from relevant universities, research institutes, enterprises, and institutions engaged in scientific research, technological innovation, and scientific and technological management in the field of oil and gas engineering are welcome to register. V. Call for Abstracts Conference abstracts are solicited from scientists and technicians worldwide involved in related fields. The content for exchange must be non-confidential; any confidential content must be declassified. Please submit your abstract via the following website before April 30, 2026: https://icg2026.bomeeting.net/Content/4355. Abstracts and posters selected by the Academic. Committee will receive acceptance notifications in batches. VI. Conference and Registration Arrangements Conference Dates: September 18-22, 2026
VII. Registration and Fee 1. Registration and Fee: All participants are required to register through the conference system. Online registration and payment are available via the conference website. Onsite payment is also accepted. Student participants must upload a valid student ID during registration.  * IGA members will receive a 20% discount on the registration fee listed in the table The “Registration Fee” will be uniformly collected by the Southwest University and an invoice for “Conference Fee” will be issued. Registration and Payment Channel: https://icg2026.bomeeting.net/116/cn. Payment method is bank transfer. For bank transfers, please indicate “ICG2026 + Order Number + Name” and upload the payment receipt to the registration system. We'll email the invoice to the delegates within 5 to 7 business days. If you are interested in becoming an IGA member and get a discount on the registration fee, please click here. For IGA members, the registration must be accompanied by a certificate of current payment of the IGA membership fee. Note: The payment channel will be open on March 10, 2026. 2. Materials, venue costs, and meals during the conference will be arranged uniformly. 3. Travel and accommodation expenses are at the participant's own expense. 4. Registration Deadline: September 18, 2026. VIII. Accommodation and Transportation 1. Agreement Hotel: (1) Hotel Name: Chongqing YinXin Century Hotel. Address: No. 9 Huixing Baotong Road, Liangjiang District Chongqing P.R. China. Agreement Rate: CNY 370 per night. (includes breakfasts). (2) Hotel Name: Chongqing Huachen International Hotel Address: No. 33 Bai Guo Road Liangjiang District Chongqing P.R. China. Agreement Rate: CNY 360 per night. (includes breakfasts). All delegates are encouraged to complete online registration and payment in advance via the conference website to reserve accommodation. The organizing committee will give priority access to hotel rooms for those who have paid their registration fees early. Note: Hotel accommodation fees are to be settled exclusively on-site during check-in. 2.Transportation Guide:  IX. Contact Information
Website and Registration: Zhi-peng Sun; Email: [email protected] Payment and lnvoice: Qin-fei Zhou Email: [email protected] Accommodation and Transportation: De-jun Xu Email: [email protected] Abstracts and Posters: Ji-pan Zhang Email: [email protected] Sponsorship and Exhibition: Yan-guo Han Email: [email protected] Affiliation: College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University International Goat Association (IGA) The Sheep and Goat Science Branch of Chinese Society of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine  Gastrointestinal nematodes infect ruminant livestock throughout the world and are an important cause of disease and production loss. Since their invention, producers have heavily relied on broad spectrum anthelmintics to help control these parasites, however, intensive use has resulted in widespread resistance issues in nematode populations, especially Haemonchus contortus.
Addressing the concerns of anthelmintic resistance, this book brings together research on management practices for controlling these nematodes in small ruminants. It covers: - The nematodes of greatest importance, such as Haemonchus contortus, Teladorsagia circumcincta, and Trichostrongylous spp., which frequently result in parasitic gastroenteritis; - Alternative approaches for nematode control, including the importance of adequate nutrition, methods for reducing pasture contamination, the role of genetics, grazing management systems and different forages; - Insights from the cattle industry, and where lessons can be learned across the species divide. With a focus on all small ruminants; sheep, goats and camelids, this book provides a useful resource for researchers and students of veterinary science, as well as practicing veterinarians and extension specialists. Many of our IGA members are interested in rangelands and pastoralists, given the importance of goats to pastoral livelihoods, and the centrality of sustainable pastures to goat keepers in diverse places. Please join this important event, and use the International Year to highlight the role of goats in these settings. Beth Miller, IGA Past President 
International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026 Opening Ceremony 2 December 2025 12:30–14:00 CET Sheikh Zayed Centre, FAO Headquarters, Rome | Hybrid Join us for the official launch of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026, taking place on 2 December 2025 at the Sheikh Zayed Centre, FAO Headquarters in Rome, in a hybrid format. Proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly at its 76th session (Resolution A/RES/76/253), the IYRP 2026 aims to raise global awareness of the vital roles that rangelands and pastoralists play in food security, climate adaptation and mitigation, ecosystem health and sustainable rural livelihoods. The ceremony will feature remarks from the FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu, H.E. Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, President of Mongolia, and other dignitaries, followed by two panel discussions highlighting the environmental, social, and economic importance of rangelands and pastoralists. Coinciding with the opening ceremony, a five-day exhibition (1–5 December) will be held in the FAO Atrium, alongside the FAO Council, highlighting the key messages of the IYRP. The exhibition will feature a photo exhibition, promotional videos, cultural performances, and products from pastoralist communities, showcasing their contributions to sustainable food systems and ecosystem management. Please join the webcast here. For more information, please contact [email protected].  What is an Old Irish Goat The Old Irish Goat is Ireland’s indigenous landrace breed, now critically endangered and only found in remote mountain ranges roaming in feral herds. Interbreeding with imported domestic goats has caused major loss of the original the characteristics and adaptations. The Old Irish Goat is highly adapted to the Irish landscape and climate. The males in particular are impressive animals, featuring – long hair, coiffs, beards and sideburns, and impressive horns. The females have a more delicate frame and a matriarchal role with their lineage being the social thread of the herd. Collectively these attributes make them a fascinating part of Ireland’s natural heritage. After arriving in Ireland during the Neolithic age, about 5,000 years ago, they adapted naturally to the Irish landscape over time. They move differently to modern (improved) goat breeds due to their height to leg length which has resulted in a small stocky goat with short legs and a long body. Its ears are small and worn in a pricked position and its impressive horns are large, corrugated, and bend over the shoulders in individual ways. These goats have no tassels and are always bearded. The male beard blends into the long-haired coat which is rough and thick and hangs down to the belly line. Being cold weather goats, they have an underwool of cashmere. They have 12 different colour patterns which give rise to the description ‘coats of many colours’. Click here for more details.  12 Random Facts about the Old Irish Goat
Crossing borders Our work started in Uganda, and that is where almost all of the routine work continues. But over the years, we have had a number of enquiries from other countries; and have carried out some work in the neighbouring parts of Kenya. Recently, the international requests seem to be increasing. In this year alone, I have visited two such countries, and held a long Zoom meeting with a third. The map below shows where we are working in Uganda and also where we are reaching out to other countries.  Tanzania At the end of last year, I got an enquiry from an organisation based in Tanzania. They were concerned that the goats that they had been buying there might not be purebred dairy goats. In February, I was able to do some training about the types of dairy goat that are available in East Africa, and in Uganda specifically. The result was that they have bought some goats from Uganda, to complement the stock that they already had.   Ethiopia The Tanzania project was already very strong; and although the exchange of ideas was useful, it did not dramatically change what they were doing. At the other end of the scale, I had the opportunity to visit Ethiopia in June. It wasn’t primarily about dairy goats - I was accompanying Jacqui to a church conference focussing on discipleship. But they wanted me to explain about the goats as well. They were very interested, and realised that it fitted very well with an existing project that the Lutheran Church there were involved with. The biggest environmental challenge in Ethiopia is overgrazing. In some areas there are now programmes aimed at excluding the livestock from selected parts and allowing regeneration of native forests. The intention is that the regenerated forests will be cropped sustainably in what is known as a ‘cut and carry’ system. For that to work well, it is necessary to switch from large numbers of low-productivity animals to smaller numbers of high-yielding animals. That is where the dairy goats come in. There are considerable challenges to be overcome in order to establish a dairy goat programme from scratch, but if it can be made to work, it will be part of something very significant.   Rwanda And last week, from my office at St Margaret’s Church in Uxbridge, I had a discussion with someone in Rwanda, who wanted to start a dairy goat project near Kigali. Drawing on our experience in Uganda, and also my visits to another proposed project at Changugu in SW Rwanda, I was able to give advice on what should be feasible. We also talked about a similar proposal in Burundi. The projects in Ethiopia and Rwanda may or may not come to anything. But that is no different from new projects in Uganda. We get enquiries from a new areas; we hold discussions with local mobilisers; if that goes well we carry out community training. And finally we arrange for the ‘improver bucks’ to be delivered; and we hope that enough people mate their local goats with the new bucks, and then get milk from the offspring. But at any stage, the project can fail. In the map above, the areas of Uganda where there is a high density of red dots are places where it didn’t fail - either it is making steady progress, or in some cases ‘going viral’. The fainter, isolated red dots are areas where we have tried it, and are waiting to see how well it takes root. A wish list
There are two places on the map that are marked with yellow balloons. One is in South Sudan. There are currently many refugees from Kajo Keji living in Uganda. Some have now returned, but others are waiting for peace to be fully established before taking that risk. While in Uganda they heard about the goat project, and pleaded with us to take it across the border. But we are also waiting until we are sure that the area will be sufficiently peaceful. Another yellow balloon is in North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). On the Uganda side of the border there is a solid arc of red around the slopes of the Rwenzori Mountains. (The peaks, along which the border runs, are not populated.) But the red stripe stops abruptly at the border. The physical environment on the other side is the same, and the people are from the same tribes. But the security situation makes it impossible for a livestock programme to be established. Thanks for your interest, Dave Dowdy Donate now  Yan, Editor in Chief, Small Ruminant Research, announced excellent news!
Dear IGA members, Our Associate Editor, Dr. Veerasamy Sejian, has published a very updated book on goats and global climate change. Written and edited by an international team of experts on goats, livestock, animal agriculture, and climate-smart food systems, Sustainable Goat Production in Changing Climate will appeal to a broad audience, from researchers to livestock specialists, veterinarians, and policymakers in food and sustainability. Sustainable Goat Production in the Changing Climate aims to make the global scientific and academic communities aware of the potential of goats as a livestock of the future. When compared to more popular meat sources like cattle and swine, goats have a lower carbon footprint and can aid in mitigating the effects of climate change, as well as improving food production, poverty, and equity issues. This book will discuss the implications of climate change on goat production systems and emphasize the physiological potential of goats to adapt to erratically changing climatic conditions. Furthermore, the book includes chapters on strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change on goat production and highlights novel technologies used to assess the impact of heat stress in goats. Technology transfer strategies and policy-related issues have also been covered. Key Features of this book: •Explores the potential of goats as future livestock species for animal-origin foods •Summarizes the impact of climate change on goats and goat production systems •Proposes technological interventions, ranging from management to bio-technological solutions •Identifies gaps in technology transfer activities and policymaking and provides solutions I think that an announcement in the IGA newsletter would be of benefit to IGA members, who will certainly appreciate this book. The book can be accessed through the following link https://shop.elsevier.com/books/sustainable-goat-production-in-the-changing-climate/sejian/978-0-443-13525-5 All the best. Serge-Yan Landau S.Y. Landau, scientist emeritus Department of Natural Resources, Agricultural Research Organization, Rishon leZion, Israel Editor in Chief, Small Ruminant Research (Elsevier) https://www.agri.gov.il/en/people/833.aspx  These goats caught a ride with the Mounties (click here to jump to the original article) Volunteers bring trailers to help 29 horses flee Holyrood wildfire. People across Conception Bay had to respond quickly to evacuation orders this week due to two raging wildfires. For animal owners, evacuating also meant finding somewhere to put their animals. In Holyrood, one rancher had to figure out how to move 29 horses. Another pet owner had to call emergency services for help evacuating nine animals. In Carbonear, an animal rescue helped all kinds of animals. When the wildfire started in Holyrood, N.L. on Monday, the first thing Sliding K Ranch owner Katrina Butler thought about was her horses. "Honestly, the first thing that came to mind was let's just get them out … then we can worry about where they went," Butler told CBC Radio's The St. John's Morning Show on Tuesday. Butler said her own trailer can only hold four horses, so she had to ask for help from others on Facebook. She said people brought eight trailers to help with the effort. The horses are now safe at four different stables in St. John's. Butler said she is grateful to all of the people who offered help. "It was pretty awesome to see everybody show up, and come together and offer everything that they could," she said. Nine animals and no car Evacuating wasn't easy for Holyrood resident Leah Snook, who lives with her mom, dad, sister and nine animals. Snook said she only heard about the evacuation through social media, while home with her mom and cousin — with no transportation. She said if they didn't have Facebook, she wouldn't have known what was happening. "We were kind of watching all these cars going in and out our road, and we'd walk up to the end of the driveway, and no one would really stop to tell us what was going on," she said. Once she learned she had to evacuate, Snook said she had to figure out how to get out with two cats, two dogs, five chickens. While Snook waited, she said they harnessed the dogs, put the cats in carriers and placed the chickens in plastic tubs. She said family members tried to come pick them up, but were turned around at the Seal Cove checkpoint. Snook says her family told authorities at the checkpoint that they were still there, so she had hoped someone would come and help. But she said no one came. "We were kind of waiting around for three hours to figure out who was going to come pick us up when we had no transportation," she said. Snook said the response could have been better. "We actually had to call 911, and get search and rescue to come up and get us," she said Search and rescue crews showed up within half and hour, and brought them to the evacuation centre. Snook said the animals were held at the evacuation centre for some time, but now they're staying with family. Four goats evacuated by RCMPMeanwhile, a wildfire in Kingston, N.L. also forced many Conception Bay North communities to evacuate this week. A Carbonear-based animal rescue group decided to help by collecting donations for evacuees, and providing a place to put their animals. New Life Rescue volunteer, Shannon Layman, said they collected donations at Re-Tail New Life Rescue Thrift Store in Carbonear. "Anything from toiletries, to food for the animals," said Layman. "And when we get a call from the evacuation centre to send anything down, then [a volunteer] goes with a truckload." Layman said the backyard of one of the volunteers seems to be turning into a small farm. She said the Mounties transported four goats to the backyard — driving them there in the back of their cruisers.  Apply to secure a 5.000 USD Scholarships to improve your academic experience
The WVA and MSD Animal Health are delighted to announce that the applications to the 2025 Veterinary Student Scholarship Programme are now open! We will attribute 40 scholarships of 5000 USD to students from countries in the regions of Latin America, Africa, North Africa/Middle East and Asia/Oceania. Visit the Programme page to learn all the details and how to apply. MSD Animal Health and the World Veterinary Association encourage qualified students to submit their applications and wish success to all candidates. For more details, click here |
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