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Status of Selenium and Other Essential and Toxic Elements in Oregon Grazing Sheep

Simple Summary: This study evaluated blood mineral levels in 370 healthy sheep from 56 farms across Oregon, a region known for selenium (Se)-deficient soils. The goal was to assess the prevalence of mineral imbalances and identify practical sampling methods for on-farm monitoring. We found that 28% of sheep were Se-deficient, and 27% of farms had average Se levels below the deficiency threshold (

Daniella Hansen, Christopher J. Russo, Katherine R. McLaughlin, Gene Pirelli, Massimo Bionaz | Jun 2025 | Online resource Peer reviewed (Gray level)

New World screwworm

New World screwworm (NWS, Cochliomyia hominivorax) is a devastating pest. When NWS fly larvae (maggots) burrow into the flesh of a living animal, they cause serious, often deadly damage to the animal. NWS can infest livestock, pets, wildlife, occasionally birds, and in rare cases, people.

Jun 2025 | Online resource

Foot and Mouth Disease fact sheet

This handout provides an overview of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in sheep, highlighting its symptoms, transmission routes, and prevention strategies. It emphasizes the importance of biosecurity measures and early detection to protect sheep health and prevent outbreaks. The document also outlines steps for managing FMD risks on farms and encourages farmers to stay informed about the disease.

Spanish: Foot and Mouth Disease fact sheet

Oct 2024 | Online resource

Electronic ID systems

This article explores the transformation of a sheep operation's record-keeping and identification system, detailing the shift from traditional tagging methods to advanced Electronic Identification (EID) technology. The author shares insights on the challenges faced with the old system, the benefits of adopting EID tags for improved efficiency, data accuracy, and animal management, and analyzes the economic implications of this investment.

Oct 2024 | Online resource

On-farm benefits of using EID

The article discusses the benefits of using Electronic Identification (EID) in sheep farming. It highlights how EID technology enhances management practices by providing accurate tracking of individual animals, improving record-keeping, and facilitating better health monitoring. The use of EID can lead to increased efficiency, easier data collection, and improved breeding decisions, ultimately benefiting farm productivity and animal welfare.

Oct 2024 | Online resource

Secure sheep and wool supply

This website covers foot and mouth disease that are found in livestock including sheep and plans for continuity of businesses.

Oct 2024 | Online resource

USDA offers disaster assistance to Oregon agricultural producers impacted by wildfires

$2M of emergency funding available to eastern Oregon. The USDA NRCS in Oregon has technical and financial assistance available to help farmers and livestock producers recover from these wildfire events. Learn more about the counties eligible and the deadline to apply.

Aug 2024 | Online resource

Framework for Interstate and intrastate movement decisions during a FMD outbreak in the U.S.

The Framework for Interstate and Intrastate Movement Decisions During a Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak in the U.S. is summarized on this website. Look under the FMD Framework Resources box to find the four-page Framework Overview handout.

Jul 2024 | Online resource