Livestock Notes (Contlniwd from Pag* D 6) have arisen regarding the use of ivermectin and its potentially detrimental effects on the repro ductive performance of ewes. Basically, ivermectin interrupts nerve signals in parasites which rely on gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) for transmitting these signals. However, in ewes and some other mammals, GABA inhibits release of certain hor mones in the brain that are respon sible for controlling part of the reproductive cycle. Scientists at the University of Missouri conducted an experi ment to evaluate the effects of ivermectin on the reproductive function of ewes. Their results showed that there was no differ ence when ivermectin was used in the (1) interval to onset of heat; (2) number of eggs released from the ovary; (3) pregnancy rate; and (4) number of fetuses per ewe. Based on the results obtained in this study, it appears that Ivermec tin has no adverse effects on reproduction in the ewe. 4-H Sheep Projects 4-H sheep projects are an excel lent way to introduce youngsters to agriculture in general, and the wonderful world of sheep in parti cular. There are many opportuni ties for kids between the ages of 8-19. Animal care and management, leadership skills, public speaking and demonstrations, livestock Many More Specials Throughout The Store During Our 66th Anniversary Sale shows and competitions, and other 4-H club activities provide a multitude of enjoyable, non threatening learning opportunities to all youth. Perhaps you know a friend or neighbor whose children could benefit from our programs. How about your own children, grand children or other relatives? They would really enjoy a 4-H sheep project We also have 4-H projects in dairy, beef, swine, goats, rab bits, cavies. poultry, horses and. many other areas. For more information, contact your local Penn State Extension Officetand ask for the 4-H agent. No Wool Incentive Payments After 1995 Recent efforts by sheep indus try leaders and allied industry groups to keep the National Wool Act intact has ended in a com Ijncaitw Farming, Saturday, March 11, 19944)7 promise with the U.S. Congress. The Senate reversed its earlier decision to eliminate funding for the Wool Act. This follows a prior House vote to reinstate funding for 1993 wool-crop incentive payments. As follow-up to this action, the Senate Agriculture Committee wrote S.B. 1548, calling for reduc tion of incentive payments via a phase-out process of the National Wool Act through the 1994 and 1995 marketing years. The bill will eliminate the Wool Act beginning in marketing year 1996 and will scale down pay ments by 25 percent and 50 per cent. respectively, in the 1994 and 1995 interim years.
Significant historical Pennsylvania newspapers