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Welcome to the Eastern Alliance for Production Katahdins. EAPK is a group of like-minded Katahdin producers from ALL over the United States. Most importantly, the mission is to advance the development of production-oriented Katahdin Sheep using quantitative genetic selection and producer education to benefit the US Sheep Industry.
Our vision for Eastern Alliance for Production Katahdins, simply put, is to use the latest tools of genetic selection to build hard-working Katahdin sheep. Katahdin sheep that fit their environment, excel for the shepherd and are profitable. Therefore, we focus on education, training, mentoring and fellowship among members.
All commercial and registered Katahdin producers are invited to join EAPK. Enrollment in the National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) or membership in Katahdin Hair Sheep International (KHSI) is not required.
Membership Includes:
• Annual symposium focused on genetic selection and management
• Promotion of the sale and purchase of high quality NSIP Katahdins
• Mentorship program to improve data collection and interpretation
• Training in the management of on-farm data and software use.
• Quarterly e-Newsletter
Check out some articles from our Blog, from shepherds for shepherds
Producer Profile: Vince Pope, Double Ewe Farm
As a dairy nutritionist by training, Vince Pope knows well the science of raising sheep. However, he feels there is a lot of art in raising sheep as well. This art is just as important as science in producing strong… Continue Reading…
Shepherd to Shepherd: Introducing our NEW Producer Forum
Sharing experiences is the hallmark of education. In this new producer forum, four experienced EAPK members enrolled in NSIP, from very diverse areas of the U.S., answer questions and share their knowledge and insights into shepherding. In a series of… Continue Reading…
Selling Lamb Retail Cuts Off-Farm
There is a continuing trend among animal product consumers – they want sustainably and humanely raised meat, milk and eggs. Generation Z is the driving force behind consumers wanting to know exactly where their food comes from and the values… Continue Reading…
Prolapses in Sheep
There are three structures that can prolapse and be visible under a ewe’s tail: vagina, uterus and rectum. Vaginal and uterine prolapses can affect ewes around lambing and will be discussed here. Vaginal Prolapse A vaginal prolapse occurs… Continue Reading…