# Goat Fiber Harvesting and Processing: Shearing, Grading, and Preparation for Market ## Key Takeaways - Shearing frequency is breed-specific: Angora goats require shearing twice annually (spring and fall) due to continuous mohair growth, while cashmere goats are shorn once yearly in late winter/early spring as their fine undercoat naturally sheds. - Fiber grading is critical for market value and involves assessing fiber diameter (microns), staple length, color, cleanliness, and the presence of medullated fibers or kemp, with specific micron thresholds for cashmere (≤19) and kid mohair (<24). - Post-shearing cleaning (scouring) utilizes hot water (140-160°F) and mild detergents to remove grease, dirt, and vegetable matter, followed by thorough rinsing at the same temperature to prevent felting, with water quality and proper drying (moisture <15%) being crucial. - Market value is determined by fiber quality metrics; premium fleeces (e.g., cashmere ≤19 microns, kid mohair <24 microns, long staple, uniform color, minimal contamination) command higher prices and are suitable for direct sales, while lower-grade fleeces are directed to industrial uses. - Animal welfare during shearing necessitates assessing body condition score, postponing for unhealthy animals, and providing post-shearing shelter to prevent hypothermia or sunburn, with monitoring for distress for 24-48 hours. - Biosecurity during shearing is paramount; disinfecting equipment between animals prevents the transmission of skin infections and parasites, and quarantine protocols for new animals are essential. --- This article provides goat farmers raising fiber breeds such as Angora (mohair) and cashmere goats with practical guidance on post-harvest handling. The content covers shearing timing and methods, fiber grading, cleaning, and preparation for sale or processing. Decisions about when and how to harvest fiber directly affect market value, animal welfare, and flock health. Farmers must integrate observations of fleece condition, animal body condition, and environmental factors into their management routine. ## At a Glance: Key Decisions in Goat Fiber Harvesting The table below summarizes the primary management decisions, their timing, and the main considerations for each step in the fiber harvesting and processing workflow. | Management Decision | Timing or Frequency | Primary Considerations | | --- | --- | --- | | Shearing schedule | Angora goats: two times per year (spring and fall). Cashmere goats: once per year (late winter or early spring). | Fiber length, animal body condition score, weather forecast, parasite burden, and market demand. | | Fiber grading | Immediately after shearing, before washing. | Fiber diameter (micron), staple length, color, cleanliness, and presence of medullated fibers or kemp. | | Cleaning method | Within 24 to 48 hours of shearing. | Water quality, detergent type, drying method, and fiber end use (hand spinning versus commercial processing). | | Storage and packaging | After cleaning and drying. | Moisture content, pest control, labeling with grade and date, and protection from light and dust. | ## Shearing Timing and Methods ### Seasonal Shearing Schedules Angora goats produce mohair continuously and require shearing twice per year, typically in spring and fall. Cashmere goats grow a fine undercoat that is harvested once per year in late winter or early spring when the cashmere begins to shed naturally. Farmers must monitor fiber length and the onset of shedding to determine the optimal harvest window. Shearing too early reduces yield, while shearing too late leads to fiber loss and contamination with guard hairs. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides resources on fiber animal management, including shearing best practices, through its livestock research programs (www.ars.usda.gov). Farmers should consult local extension services for region-specific timing recommendations based on climate and breed. ### Shearing Equipment and Technique Hand shears or electric clippers are the standard tools for goat fiber harvesting. Electric clippers reduce labor time and produce a more even cut, which improves fiber uniformity and market value. Hand shears offer greater control for small flocks or for animals with sensitive skin. Blades must be sharp and clean to prevent pulling or cutting the animal. Shearing technique affects both fiber quality and animal welfare. The goat should be restrained in a stanchion or held by an experienced handler to minimize stress and movement. Shearing proceeds from the belly upward along the sides and back, keeping the fleece intact for grading. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on livestock handling and restraint methods that reduce injury risk (www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition). ### Animal Welfare During Shearing Shearing is a stressful event for goats. Farmers should assess body condition score before shearing and postpone the procedure for animals that are underweight, ill, or heavily parasitized. Provide clean, dry bedding in a sheltered area after shearing to prevent hypothermia or sunburn. Monitor shorn animals for signs of distress, including shivering, lethargy, or reduced feed intake, for 24 to 48 hours after shearing. The USDA National Agricultural Library maintains resources on animal health and welfare that include handling and shearing protocols (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). Farmers should escalate care to a veterinarian if an animal shows signs of injury, infection, or prolonged stress after shearing. ## Fiber Grading and Classification ### Grading Criteria Fiber grading determines market value and end use. The primary grading criteria include fiber diameter measured in microns, staple length, color, cleanliness, and the presence of medullated fibers or kemp. Cashmere fiber must have a diameter of 19 microns or less to meet commercial standards. Mohair grades range from kid mohair (finest, under 24 microns) to adult mohair (coarser, over 30 microns). Farmers should grade each fleece individually immediately after shearing. Remove soiled or stained sections, known as tags, and separate them from the main fleece. Record the grade, weight, and date for each animal to track individual performance over time. ### Sorting by Color and Contamination Fiber color affects market value. White fiber commands higher prices because it accepts dye uniformly. Colored fiber, including shades of brown, gray, and black, has a smaller but dedicated market. Separate white and colored fleeces during grading to prevent cross-contamination. Contamination from vegetable matter, such as hay, straw, or burrs, reduces fiber quality. Remove visible debris by hand during grading. Heavily contaminated fleeces may require carbonizing, an acid treatment that dissolves vegetable matter, but this process damages fiber and reduces yield. Prevention through clean feeding and bedding practices is more effective than remediation. ### Records for Grading Maintain individual animal records that include fiber diameter, staple length, color, and grade for each shearing. These records support breeding decisions and flock improvement. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations provides resources on livestock recording systems that can be adapted for fiber production (www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ## Cleaning and Scouring ### Washing Methods Raw fleece contains grease (lanolin), dirt, and vegetable matter. Scouring removes these contaminants. The standard method uses hot water (140 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit) with a mild detergent or soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that damage fiber or leave residues. Rinse thoroughly with clean water at the same temperature to prevent felting. For small-scale production, farmers can wash fleece in a tub or sink, handling it gently to avoid matting. Commercial scouring lines use a series of bowls with progressively cleaner water and mechanical agitation. The choice of method depends on volume, available equipment, and end use. ### Drying After washing, remove excess water by pressing or using a spin dryer. Do not wring or twist the fiber. Spread the fleece on drying racks or screens in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Turn the fiber periodically to ensure even drying. Moisture content should be below 15 percent before storage to prevent mold and mildew. ### Water Quality and Disposal Water quality affects scouring results. Hard water reduces detergent effectiveness and leaves mineral deposits on fiber. Use softened water or adjust detergent concentration accordingly. Dispose of scouring wastewater according to local environmental regulations. Grease and dirt in the wastewater can harm aquatic ecosystems if released untreated. ## Preparation for Market ### Packaging and Labeling Clean, dry fiber should be packaged in breathable containers such as cotton or paper bags. Plastic bags trap moisture and promote mold. Label each package with the grade, weight, date, and animal identification. Include contact information and any certifications, such as organic or animal welfare labels. ### Market Channels Fiber can be sold directly to hand spinners, through wool pools or cooperatives, or to commercial processors. Direct sales to hand spinners often yield higher prices for small lots of premium fiber. Commercial processors require larger volumes and consistent quality. Farmers should research market channels before shearing to align harvest timing and grading with buyer requirements. ### Price Determination Fiber price depends on diameter, length, color, cleanliness, and market demand. Farmers can obtain price information from local wool pools, fiber cooperatives, and online marketplaces. The USDA Agricultural Research Service publishes wool and mohair market reports that provide price benchmarks (www.ars.usda.gov). Farmers should track prices over time to identify trends and adjust management accordingly. ## Common Failure Patterns ### Poor Shearing Technique Inconsistent shearing leads to uneven fiber length, second cuts (short pieces), and reduced yield. Second cuts occur when the shearer goes over the same area twice, producing short fibers that are difficult to process. Train shearers on proper technique and inspect fleeces immediately after shearing to identify and correct problems. ### Contamination Contamination from feed, bedding, or manure reduces fiber quality and market value. Prevention measures include using clean bedding, feeding hay from racks instead of the ground, and keeping fleeces off dirty surfaces during shearing and grading. Remove contaminated sections before processing. ### Inadequate Drying Fiber stored with excess moisture develops mold, mildew, and odors. Moldy fiber is unsalable and may pose respiratory hazards to handlers. Ensure fiber is completely dry before packaging and storage. Use moisture meters to verify dryness if available. ### Pest Infestation Moths and other insects damage stored fiber. Prevent infestations by storing fiber in clean, sealed containers with moth repellents such as cedar chips or lavender. Inspect stored fiber regularly for signs of insect activity. Infested fiber should be discarded or treated with heat to kill insects and eggs. ## Welfare and Safety Context ### Animal Welfare Shearing is necessary for the health and comfort of fiber goats. Overgrown fleece causes heat stress, fly strike, and mobility problems. However, shearing itself is a stressor. Farmers must balance the benefits of timely shearing against the welfare risks of handling and restraint. Provide pain relief if shearing causes cuts or nicks. Monitor shorn animals for signs of cold stress, especially in cool or wet weather. ### Worker Safety Shearing involves sharp tools and large animals. Workers should wear cut-resistant gloves and sturdy footwear. Restrain goats securely to prevent kicking or sudden movement. Keep shearing equipment clean and well-maintained to reduce the risk of accidents. Provide training on safe handling and shearing techniques. ### Biosecurity Shearing equipment can transmit skin infections and parasites between animals. Disinfect clipper blades and combs between animals, especially if treating animals with skin lesions or suspected infections. Quarantine new animals and shear them separately from the main flock until their health status is confirmed. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides biosecurity resources for livestock operations (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ## Records and Measurements ### Individual Animal Records Maintain a record for each fiber goat that includes: - Animal identification (ear tag, tattoo, or microchip) - Breed and birth date - Shearing dates and fiber weight per shearing - Fiber diameter and staple length measurements - Grade assigned to each fleece - Body condition score at each shearing - Health treatments and parasite control history These records support breeding decisions, flock health management, and market preparation. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations offers guidance on livestock record keeping for smallholders (www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ### Flock-Level Records Track flock-level metrics such as average fiber diameter, total fiber yield per shearing, and percentage of premium-grade fleeces. Compare these metrics across years to evaluate the effectiveness of breeding and management changes. Share summary data with buyers or cooperatives to demonstrate flock quality. ### Laboratory Testing For commercial sales, farmers may need laboratory testing to verify fiber diameter and other quality parameters. Testing services are available through wool testing laboratories and agricultural extension programs. Submit representative samples from each grade or animal group. Use test results to adjust breeding and management practices. ## Professional Escalation Criteria Farmers should seek professional assistance in the following situations: - Persistent skin lesions or hair loss in multiple animals, which may indicate infectious disease or nutritional deficiency. Consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment. - Unexplained decline in fiber quality or yield across the flock, which may require evaluation of nutrition, genetics, or management practices. Contact an extension specialist or animal scientist. - Difficulty achieving consistent grading or cleaning results, which may indicate equipment or technique problems. Seek training from experienced shearers or fiber processors. - Legal or regulatory questions about fiber marketing, labeling, or environmental compliance. Consult an agricultural attorney or regulatory agency. ## Post-Harvest Fiber Assessment and Decision Framework for Market Preparation After shearing and initial grading, farmers face a series of decisions that determine whether a fleece moves to premium, standard, or discount market channels. A structured decision framework helps producers sort fleeces consistently, reduce waste, and maximize returns. This section provides a practical assessment system, a record-keeping method for fiber lots, and troubleshooting guidance for common post-harvest quality problems. ### Fiber Lot Assessment Protocol Implement a three-stage assessment for each fleece immediately after shearing and before any washing. Stage one is a visual inspection under natural or bright white light. Spread the fleece on a clean, light-colored surface and examine it for overall color uniformity, visible contamination, and staple structure. Stage two is a tactile assessment. Take a representative sample from the shoulder, side, and hip of the fleece. Feel for softness, crimp definition, and the presence of coarse guard hairs or kemp. Stage three is a measurement check. Use a micron gauge or portable fiber diameter tester on at least three samples per fleece. Record the average diameter and the range of readings. The Natural Resources Conservation Service provides technical guidance on livestock management practices that include fiber quality assessment protocols (www.nrcs.usda.gov). Farmers should calibrate their assessment against known standards, such as reference samples of known micron values, at the start of each shearing season. ### Decision Matrix for Fleece Routing Use the following decision matrix to route each fleece to the appropriate market channel based on assessment results. Premium channel fleeces have a fiber diameter at or below breed standard (19 microns or less for cashmere, 24 microns or less for kid mohair), staple length of 2 inches or more, uniform color, and less than 2 percent visible contamination. These fleeces are suitable for direct sale to hand spinners or specialty processors. Standard channel fleeces have a fiber diameter within one micron above breed standard, staple length of 1.5 to 2 inches, minor color variation, and 2 to 5 percent contamination. These fleeces are suitable for wool pools, cooperatives, or commercial processors that blend fiber lots. Discount channel fleeces have a fiber diameter more than one micron above breed standard, staple length under 1.5 inches, significant color variation, or more than 5 percent contamination. These fleeces are suitable for carpet yarn, felt, or industrial applications. Farmers should separate discount fleeces immediately to avoid contaminating higher-grade lots. ### Record System for Fiber Lots Maintain a fiber lot record for each shearing event that includes the following fields: lot identification number, date of shearing, number of animals contributing to the lot, total lot weight, average fiber diameter, diameter range, average staple length, color classification, contamination percentage, and assigned market channel. Record the storage location and date of sale or transfer. Use a simple spreadsheet or paper logbook. Update the record each time a lot is moved, processed, or sold. Compare lot records across shearing events to identify trends in fiber quality. A decline in average fiber diameter or an increase in contamination percentage may indicate a need to adjust feeding, bedding, or parasite control practices. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations provides resources on livestock recording systems that can be adapted for fiber production (www.fao.org/animal-production/en). ### Troubleshooting Common Post-Harvest Quality Problems #### Problem: Excessive Grease or Lanolin Content Fleeces that feel sticky or greasy after shearing may have excessive lanolin content. This condition is more common in Angora goats than in cashmere goats. Test by pressing a clean paper towel against the fleece. If the towel absorbs visible oil, the fleece requires a longer scouring time or a higher detergent concentration. Adjust the washing protocol by increasing the water temperature to 150 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit and adding an extra rinse cycle. Record the adjustment and note the animal identification for future reference. #### Problem: Fiber Matting or Felting Matting occurs when fibers become entangled during shearing, handling, or washing. This problem reduces staple length and market value. Prevent matting by handling fleeces gently, avoiding compression during storage, and using a mesh bag during machine washing. If matting is already present, attempt to separate fibers by hand or with a flick carder. Severely matted fleeces should be routed to the discount channel. #### Problem: Persistent Vegetable Matter Some fleeces contain burrs, seeds, or straw that cannot be removed by hand picking. Test a small sample by washing and drying it. If vegetable matter remains embedded, the fleece may require carbonizing. This acid treatment dissolves cellulose but also weakens protein fibers. Carbonizing reduces fiber yield by 10 to 20 percent and is only economical for large lots. Farmers should weigh the cost of carbonizing against the potential market value of the cleaned fiber. Prevention through clean feeding and bedding practices is more effective than remediation. #### Problem: Color Variation Within a Fleece Some goats produce fleeces with multiple color zones, such as a dark neck and lighter body. This variation reduces the value of white fleeces for dyeing. Separate color zones during grading and assign each zone to the appropriate color category. Record the color pattern for each animal to inform breeding decisions. The transcriptome-based screening and validation of key genes for wool color in cashmere goats provides genetic insights that may help farmers select for uniform color (PubMed, 2024, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259488). ### Practical Implementation Steps Step one: Set up a dedicated grading station with a clean, flat surface, good lighting, and storage bins for each market channel. Step two: Train all handlers on the assessment protocol and decision matrix. Step three: Grade fleeces within 24 hours of shearing, before the fiber settles or becomes compressed. Step four: Record all assessment data in the fiber lot record. Step five: Store graded fleeces in labeled, breathable containers separated by channel. Step six: Review lot records after each shearing to identify quality trends and adjust management. ### Common Failure Patterns in Post-Harvest Assessment Failure pattern one: Inconsistent grading between handlers. Different handlers may assign different grades to similar fleeces. Prevent this by using reference samples and conducting periodic calibration sessions. Failure pattern two: Delayed grading. Fleeces left ungraded for more than 48 hours may become compressed or contaminated, reducing accuracy. Failure pattern three: Incomplete records. Missing data on fiber diameter or contamination percentage makes it impossible to track quality trends. Failure pattern four: Mixing grades during storage. Label bins clearly and train handlers to verify channel assignment before placing fleeces in storage. ### Welfare and Safety Context for Post-Harvest Handling Post-harvest handling does not directly involve live animals, but the quality of handling affects animal welfare indirectly. Fleeces that are poorly graded or contaminated may be rejected by buyers, leading to financial losses that reduce the farmer's ability to provide adequate feed, shelter, and veterinary care. Proper assessment and record keeping support the economic sustainability of the fiber operation. Worker safety during grading and cleaning involves exposure to dust, lanolin, and cleaning chemicals. Provide gloves, dust masks, and ventilation in the grading and washing area. Store cleaning chemicals in labeled containers away from feed and animal areas. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on farm safety and health (www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### Professional Escalation Criteria for Post-Harvest Issues Farmers should seek professional assistance in the following situations: persistent quality problems across multiple fleeces that cannot be corrected by adjusting management, such as unexplained high contamination or poor fiber diameter. Contact an extension specialist or fiber processing consultant for a farm audit. Difficulty interpreting laboratory test results or market price data. Consult a wool marketing specialist or cooperative representative. Legal or regulatory questions about fiber labeling, organic certification, or environmental compliance for scouring wastewater. Consult an agricultural attorney or regulatory agency. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### When is the best time to shear Angora goats? Angora goats are typically sheared twice per year, in spring and fall. Spring shearing removes the winter coat before warm weather, and fall shearing prepares the animal for winter growth. Adjust timing based on local climate and fiber length requirements. ### How do I know when cashmere is ready to harvest? Cashmere is ready to harvest when the fine undercoat begins to shed naturally, usually in late winter or early spring. Gently pull a tuft of fiber from the goat's side. If the cashmere separates easily from the guard hairs, it is time to shear or comb. ### What is the difference between mohair and cashmere? Mohair comes from Angora goats and has a smooth, lustrous fiber with a diameter ranging from 24 to 40 microns. Cashmere comes from cashmere goats and has a fine, soft undercoat with a diameter of 19 microns or less. The two fibers have different markets and processing requirements. ### How should I store raw fleece before cleaning? Store raw fleece in breathable containers such as cotton or paper bags in a cool, dry, dark place. Avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and promote mold. Keep fleeces off the floor to prevent pest infestation. Process fleeces within a few weeks of shearing to maintain quality. ### Can I wash goat fiber in a washing machine? Yes, but use a gentle cycle with cold or warm water and a mild detergent. Place the fiber in a mesh bag to prevent tangling. Do not agitate or spin dry, as this causes felting. Rinse thoroughly and dry flat on screens. ### How do I remove vegetable matter from fleece? Remove large debris by hand during grading. For stubborn burrs or seeds, use a flick carder or picker to loosen them. Heavily contaminated fleece may require carbonizing, but this process reduces fiber yield and quality. Prevention through clean feeding and bedding is more effective. ### What records should I keep for fiber production? Keep individual animal records including shearing dates, fiber weight, diameter, staple length, grade, and body condition score. Track flock-level metrics such as average fiber diameter and total yield. Use these records to guide breeding and management decisions. ### Where can I sell goat fiber? Sell fiber directly to hand spinners at fiber festivals or online marketplaces, through wool pools or cooperatives, or to commercial processors. Research buyer requirements before shearing to align harvest timing and grading with market demand. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides market reports for wool and mohair (www.ars.usda.gov). ## Related Farming Guides - [Raising Meat Goats From Weaning To Market](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/raising-meat-goats-from-weaning-to-market) - [Marketing Goat Meat Milk And Fiber Within Local Rules](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/marketing-goat-meat-milk-and-fiber-within-local-rules) - [Goat Farming Dairy And Meat Production Browse Kidding Parasite Risk And Welfare](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-farming-dairy-and-meat-production-browse-kidding-parasite-risk-and-welfare) - [Goat Breed Selection For Dairy Meat Fiber And Brush Control](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-breed-selection-for-dairy-meat-fiber-and-brush-control) - [Goat Water Systems Placement Quality Cleaning And Winter Reliability](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-water-systems-placement-quality-cleaning-and-winter-reliability) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Goat Breeding Season Planning: Timing, Nutrition, and Health Checks](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-breeding-season-planning) * [Alfalfa Hay for Goats: Feeding Decisions and Mineral Context](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/alfalfa-hay-for-goats-feeding-decisions-and-mineral-context) * [Goat Fiber Production: Cashmere and Mohair Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/goats/goat-fiber-production-cashmere-mohair-management) ## References and Further Reading - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/) - [www.nrcs.usda.gov](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Transcriptome-based screening and validation of key genes for wool color in cashmere goats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259488). Genes & genomics, 2024. - [Paratuberculosis in sheep and goats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26255556). Veterinary microbiology, 2015. - [Advances in genome-wide association studies for important traits in sheep and goats.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28903908). Yi chuan = Hereditas, 2017. - [Advances in farm animal transgenesis.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21601297). Preventive [veterinary medicine](/blog/careers/veterinary-medicine-careers-from-clinical-practice-to-public-health), 2011. - [Evolution of Trichocyte Keratin Associated Proteins.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29797267). Advances in experimental medicine and biology, 2018. - [MiR-125b regulates the differentiation of hair follicles in Fine-wool Sheep and Cashmere goats by targeting MXD4 and FGFR2.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34487480). Animal biotechnology, 2023. - [Exposure to ram wool stimulates gonadotropin-releasing hormone pulse generator activity in the female goat](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anireprosci.2007.05.012). Animal Reproduction Science, 2008. - [Prospects for Obtaining Marketable Down from the Wool of Kazakh Coarse-Haired Goats](https://doi.org/10.17957/IJAB/15.2220). International Journal of Agriculture and Biology, 2024. - [Comparative study of the properties of gaddi goat hair fibre and wool fibre](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/85184427072). Man Made Textiles in India, 2024. - [Development of multi-component and flame retardant needle-punched carpet with goat wool](https://doi.org/10.19333/j.mfkj.2017030080104). Wool Textile Journal, 2018. - [Relationship Between Growth and Development of Sheep Wool and Goat Hair with Their Mineral Components and Some Biochemical Parameters in the Blood](https://doi.org/10.37077/25200860.2025.38.sp.6). Basrah Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2025. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.