Using CIDRs for Precision Management

  • Post author:
  • Reading time:3 mins read

  • Loading

The use of estrus synchronization has many benefits. The timing and length of the breeding season is directly related to the timing and length of the lambing season. A more concise breeding season will result in a more concise subsequent lambing season. This can improve labor efficiency (minimize the number of nights you have to check the barn), improve uniformity of the lamb crop, increase average age and weight of the lamb crop, and allow for more grafting opportunities if needed. Additionally, if we know within a few days when the majority of lambs will be born, we can better…

Continue Reading Using CIDRs for Precision Management

NSIP Katahdin Percentile Report

  • Post author:
  • Reading time:35 mins read

  • Loading

EBVs of different animals can be directly compared with each other, but how do they compare to the rest of the sheep in NSIP? The Percentile Report, generated by NSIP, is a tool that allows you to evaluate individual animals, set breeding goals, help with marketing and sales, as well as to understand what is available in the breed. As a producer you need to know how to read the Percentile Report, explain it to customers and know what data goes into calculating the percentiles. Note: This article uses the NSIP Katahdin Percentile Report that was generated on 12/18/2024. Percentile…

Continue ReadingNSIP Katahdin Percentile Report

Marketing Tips

  • Post author:
  • Reading time:5 mins read

  • Loading

On the SheepThings Podcast, marketing emails and questions are becoming more prevalent. How do I market my sheep? That is such a broad question and I usually start with, "That depends …." That is the easy part. When you first started in the sheep business, determining who your market is should have been the first step. Once you determine the market you want to be in, then you can set your sights on how to reach them. One of the first things you need to do for your operation is to raise something people want to buy. Doesn't matter how…

Continue ReadingMarketing Tips

Buying Parasite Resistance: considerations for greater success

  • Post author:
  • Reading time:27 mins read

  • Loading

Often producers interested in adding genetics for parasite resistance to their flock are faced with deciphering the fecal egg count (FEC) EBVs listed on a stall card or catalog at an auction (online or in person). Is that enough information to identify a parasite resistant animal? In my experience, no. Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) provide a wonderful tool to predict animal performance, but when it comes to parasite resistance, the stated EBV often doesn't provide the whole answer. More than other traits, FEC EBVs can be subject to some pretty big changes over time. Partly that's because there is such…

Continue ReadingBuying Parasite Resistance: considerations for greater success

Where to Buy Sheep

  • Post author:
  • Reading time:5 mins read

  • Loading

We often get asked "Where's the best place to buy sheep?" A lot depends on your goals and what you'll use the sheep for, but one thing is pretty much certain: Don't buy sheep from the local sale barn. Below are some of the more common sale venues with some of the pros and cons listed. Venue Pros Cons On Farm Often lowest cost option Least chance of biosecurity issues Least stress for animals Ability to inspect the whole flock and observe management Potentially more choices of one farm's genetics May allow better opportunity to develop relationship with seller, especially…

Continue ReadingWhere to Buy Sheep

Impact of NSIP Status on Ram Value

  • Post author:
  • Reading time:4 mins read

  • Loading

In 2022, the Southwest Virginia Agricultural Research and Extension Center hosted its 10th ram test and sale. Over the years, the program has developed a strong reputation for the development and identification of superior rams for growth and parasite resistance in a forage-based environment. Historically, the test has included rams from NSIP flocks and some rams from flocks not enrolled in NSIP (non-NSIP). The 2022 test and sale data were analyzed to explore the impact of NSIP enrollment on ram performance and value in the program. The 2022 test included 119 rams from 10 states. Rams were delivered in late…

Continue ReadingImpact of NSIP Status on Ram Value

Shepherd to Shepherd: Producer Forum Blog #4

  • Post author:
  • Reading time:8 mins read

  • Loading

For our fourth and final producer forum we asked our four shepherds to share some words of wisdom. As usual, their answers are as varied as their production systems and geographic location. What has your experience taught you over the years and what nuggets or advice would you share with others, especially new, Katahdin producers? Michelle Canfield (Canfield Farms, Western Washington) Farming is a lot of work! Pulling from my day job that involves a lot of concepts from Toyota Lean Six Sigma, I think having a continuous process improvement mindset is helpful. I utilize "Kanban Boards" that help me…

Continue ReadingShepherd to Shepherd: Producer Forum Blog #4

Preparations for Sale Season

  • Post author:
  • Reading time:3 mins read

  • Loading

In this blog, EAPK member Becky Shultz of Prairie Lane Farm shares some tips and suggestions for preparing sheep for marketing and transport to sales.     Sale season is quickly approaching and we all begin to think about how to market and present our Katahdins. NSIP data has been submitted and we have selected our top individuals that will be the best prospects for other breeders. We like to choose animals with good EBVs and we also like them to prove themselves with their phenotypic performance.     Sheep consigned to summer sales will benefit from some advance preparation. We first check all…

Continue ReadingPreparations for Sale Season

Selling Lamb Retail Cuts Off-Farm

  • Post author:
  • Reading time:5 mins read

  • Loading

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 behind the farming operation. With this trend, many cattle, hog, and sheep producers are selling animals to customers and sending the purchased animals off for custom processing. Other producers may be choosing to sell retail cuts in a roadside shop or farmers markets. If selling lamb directly off the farm is something your operation is currently doing or has discussed…

Continue ReadingSelling Lamb Retail Cuts Off-Farm