Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the University of Wisconsin–Madison Division of Extension are launching the 2026-2027 Parasite Patrol Tour. This multi-state educational workshop series officially kicks off on Aug. 4 in Decorah.

Parasites are a costly threat to livestock. Traditional sheep and goat deworming methods are losing effectiveness due to parasite resistance. This hands-on workshop is designed to help producers transition from routine, calendar-based treatments to data-driven parasite management that protects herd health and lowers input costs.

Participants will gain practical, science-based skills to improve long-term flock and herd performance, including:

  • Understanding parasite life cycles and when livestock are most at risk.

  • Identifying how resistance to deworming treatments develops.

  • Mastering fecal egg counting to make targeted treatment decisions.

Kickoff event details

The kickoff event will take place Aug. 4 from 1 to 4:30 p.m. at the ISU Extension and Outreach Winneshiek County office, located at 2316 Sweet Parkway Road, Decorah, Iowa. The cost to register is $30 per person. Advance registration is required.

Attendees are highly encouraged to bring a fresh fecal sample from their sheep or goats (collected within 24 hours and kept cool) to use during the hands-on training.

To view upcoming dates and locations for the 2026–2027 tour, visit Parasite Patrol.

For more information, call ISU Extension and Outreach Winneshiek County at 563-382-2949. For more information about Parasite Patrol, contact Carolyn Ihde, small ruminant outreach specialist, at carolyn.ihde@wisc.edu.