Raising ruminants in Central Texas: challenges, strategies

With its brushy terrain and diverse vegetation, Central Texas is well-suited for goat and sheep production. file photo
With its brushy terrain and diverse vegetation, Central Texas is well-suited for goat and sheep production. file photo

Lampasas County and the Central Texas region have been a hub for goat and sheep production due to the brushy terrain, diverse vegetation and proximity to robust markets. The region contributes significantly to Texas’ dominance in the U.S. small ruminant industry, producing over 50% of the nation’s goat meat, milk and mohair, and about 33% of its meat goat inventory.

Producers, however, face challen…