IMPROVED MEAT GOAT PRODUCTION SYSTEMS IN THE USA: HARVEST WEIGHT, DIET, GENDER, AND BREED

Objectives of the project are to determine effects of harvest of meat goats at heavier weights, such as 80 pounds, compared with the 60-pound norm on efficiency of production, product quality and consumer appeal, and economic returns. Furthermore, optimal management practices to achieve heavier harvest weights will be identified, with consideration of the nature of the diet and gender and breed of meat goats.