Prevention Is Key to Avoiding Pinkeye After Pasture Turnout

May 21, 2025

By Sherry Hoyer and Chris Clark

As herds are being turned out on pasture across the state, most calves will get an immunity boost for select diseases through a vaccination program. However, as Iowa State University Extension and Outreach beef specialist Chris Clark explained, “Arguably the most common health nuisance on pasture, pinkeye, doesn't have an easy vaccine solution with consistent efficacy. In part, this is because pinkeye is complicated, involving multiple bacterial strains and risk factors.”

The solution is prevention and early intervention.

Prevention points

Reduce corneal irritants. The cornea provides a protective layer over the eye, and when it is healthy, bacteria cannot attach. Irritants that damage the cornea allow bacteria to colonize and infection to occur. Common irritants on pasture include UV light, seedheads and dust.
Control fly populations. Flies contribute to cornea irritation, but the primary role of flies in regard to pinkeye is carrying the bacteria from one animal to the next, and facilitating transmission. Because flies can travel distances, the adage "your fly control program is only as good as your neighbor’s" bears truth. But by taking steps in your herd, populations can still be significantly reduced. Multifaceted approaches are the most effective.

Source : iastate.edu

Video: Shearing Delay Leads To Kingston 4H Sheep Show!

What started as a disappointment turned into a day full of surprises, fun, and celebration as we leave Ewetopia Farms behind and head out to the Kingston Fair to watch the 4H sheep show

Today’s vlog was supposed to be another sheep shearing day here at Ewetopia Farms, but when our shearer had to cancel, we suddenly found ourselves with an unexpected free day. Lucky for us, the Kingston Fair was happening — and some of our own sheep (and friends) were competing!

We brought along our shearing helper and headed to the fairgrounds to cheer on the 4H kids and see how our sheep did in the show. From last-minute preparations and sheep showmanship to market lamb competitions and ewe classes, we take you behind the scenes of what it’s really like at a country fair.

We couldn’t be prouder — our girls walked away with wins in both showmanship and breeding ewe classes! Afterwards, we toured the fair, met a beekeeper with fascinating insights, admired other livestock shows, and wrapped up the evening with motocross stunts and a demolition derby!

Sometimes farm life throws curveballs — but today, it gave us the chance to celebrate community, our sheep, and the next generation of shepherds.