Among the counties of California, Kern County ranks #1 in sheep numbers and in the top ten for total livestock and livestock products. Total livestock and livestock products contribute about $100,000,000 to the Kern County economy annually.

   One advisor is assigned to natural resources, livestock production management, and range management. He provides help to commercial producers and to the small scale producers of beef cattle, dairy cattle, sheep, swine, goats, small animals and poultry.

Examples of Research and Teaching Projects:

• An extensive survey of the mineral content of alfalfa has shown that most minerals are adequate. However, there are potential problems in some fields with the copper/molybdenum ratio and low selenium concentration.
• Range forages are being tested to determine mineral distribution in the rangeland of the county.
• Studies have been conducted to determine the internal parasite cycles in range cattle. The types of dewormer drugs and the proper timing of the drugs used are being evaluated.
• Demonstration studies are being conducted to evaluate the use of solar and wind energy for pumping water for range livestock.
• Studies are being conducted to better understand oak seedling survival under natural regeneration conditions.
• An educational outreach program is ongoing in the areas of food safety and animal care.
• An educational outreach program is being conducted regarding non-point pollution and range water quality including waterborne pathogens.
• An educational outreach program is being conducted regarding endangered plants in Kern County.