PS10-21. Assessment of Kentucky Small Ruminant Producer Adoption and Perceptions of Legumes for Parasite Control.

Abstract Gastrointestinal parasite burden remains a major constraint to productivity in small ruminant systems, with increasing concerns regarding anthelmintic resistance and reduced efficacy of conventional control strategies. Plant secondary metabolite (PSM)-containing legumes have been proposed as a sustainable alternative for parasite control due to their potential antiparasitic and nutritional benefits; however, adoption is influenced by producer knowledge, perceptions, and management feasibility. The objective of this study was to characterize Kentucky small ruminant producer demographics, management practices, and willingness to adopt PSM-containing legumes for parasite control. A cross-sectional survey with rolling recruitment was administered electronically via Qualtrics. Participants were recruited through Kentucky Extension networks, producer organizations, and in-person outreach at Extension events. The questionnaire captured producer demographics, operation characteristics, parasite-management strategies, forage use, awareness of PSM legumes, and perceived benefits and barriers to adoption. Data were collected from February 2026 onward, and incomplete responses were excluded from analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed using SAS v. 9.4. A total of four complete responses were obtained across four counties. Most respondents (75%) were 35-46 yr. of age, with 25% aged 50-64 yr. All respondents managed ≤20 head and utilized predominantly cool-season grass pastures (tall fescue or orchardgrass) with clover inclusion. No respondents reported prior knowledge of PSM legumes for parasite control. Parasite pressure was generally low, with 75% indicating no concern and 25% reporting treatment ≤2 times per year. Half of respondents reported use of commercial anthelmintics, with estimated annual expenditures of $100–$249 and moderate or uncertain perceived efficacy. Lack of knowledge was identified as the primary barrier to adoption (75%), although all respondents indicated willingness to consider the integration of PSM legumes. Respondents perceived that incorporation of legumes could reduce reliance on anthelmintics, with 25%, 50%, and 25% indicating slight, significant, or complete reduction, respectively. Economic drivers influencing adoption included improved animal performance (75%) and long-term cost savings (25%). Willingness to invest in legume establishment varied, with 50% indicating < $50/0.4 ha and 50% indicating ≥$200/0.4 ha. These preliminary findings highlight knowledge gaps and will inform the development of targeted Extension programming to support the adoption of alternative parasite-control strategies in Kentucky small ruminant systems.