Minnesota Lamb & Wool Producers
S HEPHERD’ S N EWS Summer 2012
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: B ERGS H ONORED AS P IPESTONE USDA under fire 3 C OUNTY F ARM F AMILY OF THE Y EAR Kinney attends NLFA 4 Marlin and Donna Letter from ALB Chair 5 both grew up on dairy farms in Kandiyohi Doc Kennedy honored 6 County, but after they Animal Care News 7 married, they moved to Pipestone County where Capitol Corner 8-9 Marlin started his career as a high school Market news 10 agriculture instructor in Livestock Grants 11 Jasper, MN. In 1965, Marlin accepted the Sheep on Small Acreages 12 teaching position in Shearers Cut It Close 13 Pipestone. In 1974, they began a registered Classified ads 14 Suffolk sheep business and have worked to Calendar of Events 15 improve their flock ever Board of Directors 16 since. Marlin and Phil & Laurel Berg family, Marlin & Donna Berg Donna’s son Philip is also involved with the happily involved with a develop leaders. He 2012 MLWPA family sheep Red Angus cattle sought to develop operation as well as the leadership skills that would Shepherd’s Holiday business. Philip and his wife Laurel have four Suffolk flock. help his students acquire Dec. 1 children; Samantha (19), In the community, and lead productive Mankato, MN Andrew (16), Hannah Marlin was an agriculture careers in the field of See you there! (12), and Isaac teacher and FFA advisor, (10). The entire family is where his goal was to Cont. on p. 2
P RESIDENT ’ S M ESSAGE – C OCCIDIOSIS IN L AMBS - K IRK R OE What a whirl wind of a As I travel the state We are into my many more fair activities. summer! I can’t believe some crops look good and favorite time of the year. Fall sports are just that August is almost over. some are quite stressed. The “Great Minnesota Get around the corner as well Spring brought a good Some corn fields look like Together” where the as the beginning of the planting season for most of it is mid-October, while Minnesota Lamb & Wool 2012 – 2013 academic the state as well as good some fields have already Producers will be very year. It won’t be too long growth for hay and been chopped. This will much involved with your and we will be attending pastures. Then it became bring challenges for Commercial Booth, BAA school sports, concerts and too wet, too dry, too hot all feeding the ewes and Booth, youth and open in the same month. lambs into next year. class sheep judging and Cont. on p. 2 Page 2 Summer 2012 P RES . M ESSAGE — CONT . other important activities daily. hibernation and looking good. If you have any The Lamb Ambassadors have Thanks to Melanie Pamp and her questions or really been busy this year promoting committee. comments please the Minnesota sheep industry at Your board is currently planning contact me at: county, regional and state events. the Shepherds Holiday Conference P.O. Box 52, Rake, These young people are really for December 1 in Mankato, MN. IA 50465-0052 organized and have excellent The planning committee has some Cell phone: (507) leadership. They are a big asset to high powered speakers and 525-0970 email: this organization. educational sessions planned for [email protected] Please visit the association’s this one day event. If you have any Good luck with your fall lambing website (www.mlwp.org). It is out of suggestions for topics please contact and field work. your Regional Director or myself.
S HEEP PRODUCERS HONORED AS FFOY agriculture. Philip came to management practices. generation farmer who 350 cows in a compost Pipestone as an extension The Christophers also began farming on his barn. The cattle on the educator for 10 years and have a flock of 70 ewes grandfather’s homestead farm are housed on four now is a Lamb and Wool that produce club lambs in 1956. When he first farm sites. Beyond the instructor for Minnesota for the grandchildren and began, his operation had dairy cows and heifers, West Community and other 4-H members. grain, hay, dairy, feeder they have 75 cow-calf Technical College. Laurel is The Anderson cattle, and hogs. Along operation, dairy steers, a Campus Marketer at Standing Rock Ranch of the way he added Suffolk and 25 market-type ewes Minnesota West Community Mora began in 1975 with sheep. In 1983, Arne and club lambs. and Technical College. All the purchase of 90 acres sold the tillable land and [MLWPA congratulates all the Bergs have been by Lawrence Anderson dairy herd. Today Arne of the 2012 Farm Families involved with 4-H, FFA, (Bryon’s father). In 1981 and his wife Carol raise of the year. See them all youth education events, Ginny joined the operation Suffolk sheep. The at: mnfarmfamilies.cfans.umn. and other activities at the when she married Byron Stoens were active in the edu ] local, state, and national right on the farm. In West Central MN Sheep levels where they are able 1997, the Andersons Producers . to promote agriculture. began raising registered In 1913, Kevin’s [Ed. Note: The bergs have Angus beef for 4-H. Over grandparents Henry and MSSA Honors Benda, been long time members of the years, they have Ethel Voorhees moved to Berg and Martens MLWPA and the MN Suffolk worked hard to improve Swift County. They began The Minnesota Suffolk Sheep Association. the herd thru selective their eight-cow dairy with Sheep Association Congratulations Berg breeding. At one time, the while raising ten recognized Don & Dorothy family!] Andersons had 175 head children. Their 7th child, Benda, Marlin & Donna of sheep for wool and Leonard, is Kevin’s Four additional county Berg and Carl &Dorothy meat production. dad. Leonard, Margaret, Farm Family honorees are Martens for their long time Currently, the and their sons Kevin and sheep producers. They are: support of the junior sheep Andersons manage 24 Craig continued to build The Christopher family shows. All three families Angus beef and 10 the dairy farm. They in Jackson, MN has been a have helped numerous sheep. The animals are developed a 40-cow life-long grain and livestock families get started in the used for perfecting the registered Guernsey operation. Brent and Kevin Suffolk business. All three breeds and showing for 4- herd. Over the years they Christopher grain farm families are or have been H. One pen of sheep took purchased a beef farm, 1600 acres of a corn and members of MLWPA as a State Fair Championship remodeled the dairy barn, soybean rotation. They well. utilize GPS technologies last year. and increased their and follow best Arne Stoen is a 4th herd. Today they milk Shepherd’s News Page 3 USDA UNDER FIRE FOR BACKING ‘ MEATLESS M ONDAYS ’ The USDA is under fire from energy, and participating in what's to clarify the comments. ranchers and Capitol Hill after known as the "Meatless Monday" "Never in my life would I have encouraging employees to go initiative. "One simple way to reduce expected USDA to be opposed to vegetarian one day a week and your environmental impact while farmers and ranchers," Moran said . warning that meat production dining at our cafeterias is to "American farmers and ranchers contributes to climate change. The participate in the "Meatless Monday" deserve a USDA that will pursue department has since backed away initiative," the USDA newsletter said. supportive policies rather than seek from the statements, but not before The update went on to cite the their further harm. With extreme causing a bovine brouhaha. "many health concerns" associated drought conditions plaguing much of "This move by USDA should be with "excessive consumption" of the United States, the USDA should condemned by anyone who believes meat. It noted that many people are be more concerned about helping agriculture is fundamental to just not ready to go all-vegetarian, drought-stricken producers rather sustaining life on this planet," said and said forgoing meat one day a than demonizing an industry reeling J.D. Alexander, president of the week "is a small change that could from the lack of rain." National Cattlemen's Beef Assoc. produce big results." But the USDA later said that The offending comments came in Following complaints by the passage in the newsletter was an online newsletter to employees cattlemen's association, Kansas included without proper clearance. about "greening" efforts. The update Republican Sen. Jerry Moran called (and the comments have been schooled employees on ways to save on Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack removed.) MLWPA B OARD M EETING M INUTES - J EREMY G ESKE Vice-President John Dvorak called the Farm Bill. Met with USDA – one issue was K. was accepted. It is in PA in July. Should be meeting to order. The Agenda was approved. lamb depredation and record keeping a good program. Jeremy Geske read the minutes from the requirement; wildlife services facing uphill Shepherd’s Holiday – Jeremy discussed last meeting – they were approved as battle. John was in every office except potential agenda items and Keynote speaker presented. Cravaack and Bachmann. options. Karen Stormo has 2 fiber speakers Glenette Sperry presented the treasure’s Shepherd’s Harvest Festival report – Don lined up. 2013 options – move back to the report. Balance as of 6/15 = $6583.97 Adelmann and Mary Radermacher were in north. (checking), $69,549.22 (savings) for a total the booth. 8,000 people attended. Booth Mike H. /Don A. moved & 2nd to of $76,133.19. After discussion, the sales totaled about $1200. Signed 2 new sponsor hole at FB golf tournament for $200. treasurer’s report was approved. members. Motion Carried Membership report – Jeremy Geske Mary ia working with Loretta Pedersen HSUS/UEP egg amendment to Farm Bill. indicated were are at 282 in all classes. The on re-stocking trailer for state fair. Also Jeremy G. /Melanie P. moved /2nd for membership directory is done and will be working on schedule for commercial booth. MLWPA to sign on to letter with ASI opposing mailed soon. Silver Bell Award update – Randy Kinney the amendment – members encouraged to discussed the need to clear up some Newsletter – Jeremy Geske reported the contact Senator Klobuchar to oppose the discrepancies in the application form. next issue will be august. Article deadline amendment (dictating how we raise 8/3. Discussion followed on where articles Faribault Woolen Mills – John D. & livestock.) Motion carried. come from . Jeremy G. still following up on getting them Jeremy G. reported MN Corn Growers mor einvolved. Mary R. will ask them about Kelly Froehlich delivered the youth report. MN have resources to help the livestock industry. participating in the booth. Ag Ambassador Institute – Kelly F. and Scott Suggestion was to look at lamb media Dingles attending. MLWPA needs a table New business: promotion, check with the American Lamb cloth with logo – or standing banner. Jeremy Website – Sara Brakke gave an update. Board – could we use something they did in G./Mike Haubrich moved/2nd to hire Melanie The website is once again live and updated. twin cities media. [Note: ALB suggested Pamp to make 2 table clothes with logo and Suggested to sell ads on side of webpage. All hosting a “Lamb Jam” event in the twin website adjustable for 6 and 8 ft table. MLWPA members are encouraged to send in cities.] Motion carried. photos for use on the website and in the Mike reported on ALBs proposal to Old business: newsletter. increase the lamb check-off rate from .005 to .007. Discussion on how MLWP could get John D. discussed a possible Fall State Fair Baa Booth – Dan talked with Bret and Jodee Oelke. Will not be Jodee and some check-off money for promotion in MN. workshop at the George Warrant farm near Trailer –we need to get the new logo on Kasota, on Sept. 8. [Ed. Note—due to Jo Bernard this year. Bret and Lori willing to set up and take down, but not run it. After the trailer. Melanie P. can construct the new scheduling problems—this event has been logo. She needs dimensions of logos from postponed until spring of 2013.] discussion, Dan Persons was chosen to assign board members to be responsible for Loretta P. John D. reported on DC trip. Briefing a day and recruit people to man the booth. Next meeting date: Sept. 8 (tentative) in meetings with ASI – big issue was Senate National Lamb Feeders School – Randy Mankato. Page 4 Summer 2012
NLFA L EADERSHIP S CHOOL H EADS E AST - A MY T RINIDAD Building a “Foundation for the one of the largest veal and lamb in their homeland. Future” for the sheep industry was companies in the US and a major Smoker Sheep and Goat Auction the goal of this year’s National Lamb producer of fresh, easy-to-prepare in Gap, Pa., which holds a bi-monthly Feeders Association (NLFA) Howard consumer food products. Although auction that averages 500 head of Wyman Leadership School. Held in Catelli does sell both imported and sheep and goats per sale, was the Pennsylvania, the focus of the school domestic lamb, the company next stop on the tour. Ken Smoker was on alternative markets for lamb features American lamb on opened his auction in 2004 and products, whether it be direct to billboards, truck wraps, menu specializes in the ethnic trade. consumer, through farmers markets, features, point-of-sale materials and Smoker relayed to participants that live-animal trade or a type of on-farm on-product packaging. the slower economy has even harvesting. Catelli also dove into some of the impacted the ethnic trade causing This year marked the first time challenges regarding the present families to buy less lambs than they the school was held on the East American lamb market relaying that did just a few years ago. Coast to help participants gain an some retail and foodservice A stop at a Suffolk seedstock insight to non-traditional marketing. customers have moved to imported operation followed the auction. Although for some producers lamb for cost and consistency MacCauley Suffolks in Atglen, Pa., attending the school, non-traditional reasons. He also provided a cost raises about 180 ewes on 400 acres. lamb marketing is the norm; comparison of American lamb vs. Although historically this operation however, Milt Ward, president of imported lamb for foodservice raised sheep for show and NLFA from Idaho, stated it best, “The operators and retail chains. seedstock, Bill MacCauley is starting trip has been a real eye opener for us As far as the future of American to diversify his product by integrating Western boys.” lamb, Catelli provided some insight sheep for commercial production. Participants traveled to for the industry listing: The stop at the New Holland Pennsylvania, including a stop in Livestock Stables was intriguing for New Jersey, to soak in the knowledge the need for reduction in costs; many of the school’s attendees. This from the various producers, must have consistent quality and sale barn averages 1,500 sheep and processors and marketers that help yields; lambs on its Monday sales with as make the sheep industry in the East a need for convenient, innovative many as 7,000 head of sheep and tick. Attendees also participated in a products; goats moving through the auction group project in which each one had education on menu applications for process during peak demand times. the opportunity to expand an foodservice customers; and As New Holland accepts lambs from operation into alternative markets. In all across the country, many education for consumers on between the tour stops, the groups producers attending the school had brainstormed about the pros and product usage and health benefits. sold lambs through the auction but cons of their proposed situation and Day two was the start of the bus never had the opportunity to provided solutions to the question. tour. The first stop was at a small experience it first-hand. Although The groups were encouraged to use custom harvest shop and auction prices had slipped recently at the the experience and knowledge they that sells 50 to 100 head of lambs a auction, competition remained fierce gained on the tour to determine their week in addition to cattle, chickens, among ethnic buyers representing a solutions. The school then concluded goats and rabbits. Although a variety of nationalities. with the groups presenting their majority of it’s customers were once The final stop of the day was at solutions and getting feedback from Muslim, it now sells sheep to a Delaware Valley College in all those in attendance. variety of nationalities. Although the Doylestown, Pa., which has a To assist with the coordination of younger generations of immigrants livestock for academic work including the schools, NLFA chose are acclimating to more the a Hampshire and Dorset flock. Pennsylvania shepherds, Greg and traditional method of buying meat in Marcho Farms was the first stop Laurie Hubbard and Joanne Evans a supermarket, therefore not buying on the third day of the school and who determined the tour stops to animals on farm, the harvest shop one that participants found very showcase the wide variety of has not experienced a drop in informative. “We are the butchers of opportunities in niche marketing. demand as new immigrants are 25 years ago,” says Bob Russell, The school kicked off with a consistently coming to America and dinner sponsored by Catelli Brothers, want to harvest animals like they do Cont. on p. 5 Shepherd’s News Page 5
L ETTER F ROM THE A MERICAN L AMB B OARD C HAIR
Recently, a proposed about $700,000 additional funding So why increase the rate now? amendment to increase the to educate consumers, retailers and The American Lamb Board has assessment rate for the Lamb chefs on the benefits of American been in existence for 10 years and Promotion, Research and Lamb. has not had any increase in Information Order was published in The American Lamb Board first assessments. In recent years, the the June 12 Federal Register. I am decided to request this increase in American Lamb Board budget has writing to you to give you some assessments a year ago. It was a dropped to about $1.8 million. While background on this proposed time of tight supplies and decreased this seems like a large budget amendment and to ask for you to imports. What a difference a year (especially to a small Midwest sheep share your feedback. makes. producer like me), it is small when The proposed amendment would Today, the U.S. lamb industry is compared to the budgets of most increase the assessment rate from struggling with a very different other checkoff programs. And, more $.005 to $.007 per pound for live market. Imports are coming back importantly, it is less than what Meat sheep and lamb sold by producers, strong. Prices are coming down. and Livestock Australia spends in the feeders and seedstock producers. Many in our industry are hurting. As a US to promote Australian Lamb. For sheep and lamb purchased for manager at Kroger, I see how the The American Lamb Board slaughter by first handlers the rate economic downturn has affected the proposed this increase because we would increase from 30 cents to 42 way people eat as I watch shoppers can't keep doing more with less, cents per head. This equates to economizing like never before. Cont. on p. 14
NLFA L EADERSHIP S CHOOL H EADS E AST — CONT . general manager, regarding the cheese is made on-site and sold City markets. fabrication work that is done at through 26 weekly farmers markets “I enjoyed the Leadership School Marcho Farms, which deals mainly and at its three retail stores located and would encourage others to with American lamb. One of the in New Jersey and New York. Eran consider attending future schools,” company’s marketing niches is that Wajswol explained to the group that said Kinney. they offer a process verified lamb sales of sheep cheese is “not a product which requires lamb to be problem” as they are currently sold raised by certified growers, lamb that out of their top five sheep cheeses. is source verified, lamb carcasses The farm even has a waiting list for that weigh from 60-85 pounds, lamb New York chefs that would like to carcasses that are graded U.S.D.A. purchase sheep cheese from them. Choice and carcasses with a yield In order to increase milk production, grade 3 or better. Russell echoed the farm also milks cows and goats. Catelli’s comments regarding Milk from these animals is mixed customers demanding a consistent with the sheep milk to produce a product, which can be a challenge at number of different products. times. However, he concluded the Although Valley Shepherd sells a visit saying, “American lamb is the variety of items in its retails stores to best product on the market and compliment the cheeses, Wajswol that’s why we buy it.” says, “The success of the business The next stop on the tour was has been based on the sheep milk.” Valley Shepherd Creamery in Long The last stop of the tour was at Valley, N.J. Valley Shepherd raises the farm of Jake and Mary Stoltzfus approximately 500 East Fresian of Myerstown, Pa., who opened their ewes that produce one to three home for a family style dinner and a pounds of milk per day. brief look into the Amish lifestyle. The What sets Valley Shepherd apart Stoltzfus’ construct wooden silo Randy Kinney of MN from other sheep dairies is that doors and raise pigeons for New York NLFA Leadership Participant Page 6 Summer 2012 T HE U LTIMATE S HEEP T ENDER
The ordinary public often views he has mentored veterinary students, More recently, he took on the celebrities as unreachable. Movie developed nutritional products for social net-working arena of Face- star sightings occur by chance, and lambs and sheep and has led the book where he has over 1,100 the only time we converse with way in issues regarding overall sheep friends who turn to him for advice on politicians is during parades when health care. Additionally, he has sheep production, lamb care, candidates shake our hands in grown alongside the changing needs nutrition and veterinarian care. hopes of securing votes. These of the industry. And, this, perhaps, is By his own admission, Kennedy encounters lack substance and one of his most significant wants to help others by correlating value. contributions. what he knows in a way that helps Yet, G.F. Kennedy, affectionately known as “Doc Kennedy” or “Doctor Kennedy” is a celebrity in his own right. One who touches the lives of ordinary people in very substantial ways. One who has garnered recognition despite never asking for a vote. Kennedy’s 2012 Camptender Award is the product of passion, com-passion and influence. Recognized for his service and commitment to the sheep industry, Kennedy received one of four awards granted by the American Sheep Industry Association during their annual meeting in Scottsdale, Arizona. The Camptender Award is presented to a professional who significantly impacts the sheep Doc Kennedy accepts the Camptender award from ASI industry in a positive and long-lasting way. By definition, a camp tender is When he realized that veterinary others better their production. His one who watches over and expertise and advice was missing for own goal defines him and his supervises those who care for sheep many sheep and goat producers due actions. Without his willingness to on a ranch or farm. Kennedy has to geo-graphic restrictions, Kennedy pass down his knowledge and taken this one step further and acts created a catalog and website experience, many sheep tenders— as a sounding board for sheep dedicated to goat and sheep and their sheep—would struggle. producers all across America. products. Pipestone Vet Clinic is This makes Kennedy the ultimate Kennedy’s first commitment to alone in com-piling such complete sheep tender, and well-deserving of the sheep industry began with a information and providing it to the the prestigious Camptender Award. simple choice to pursue veterinary public in a succinct and easy to understand way. science over ag education. Along the way, his formal education and his He also puts himself out there, For sheep health questions and own challenges and triumphs as a encouraging sheep producers to supplies, visit their website at: sheep producer merged, making contact him personally so he could Kennedy a nationally recognized share his expertise with those in www.pipevet.com expert in sheep health and need. During the course of a day, Or call: production. Kennedy fields questions via old- 800-658-2523 But Kennedy hasn’t settled into fashioned telephone calls, as well as his role nonchalantly. Over the years, through emails and text messages. Shepherd’s News Page 7
A NIMAL C ARE N EWS - N ATIONAL I NSTITUTE FOR A NIMAL A G
Consumers Need More Information Consumer Perceptions Will reported where an individual got the on Antibiotic Use Determine Agricultural Practices illness from another person, but Along with consumers’ increased Last week, I spoke at the second there was no further spread of the interest in how their food is grown, annual Animal Welfare Symposium, illness to additional people. the question of how antibiotics are held at the University of Arkansas. In addition to the Minnesota used on the farm also is being asked The event focused on animal case, over 200 cases of the illness more frequently. However, there is husbandry topics such as state laws have been reported in eight states misunderstanding among consumers regarding animal welfare, consumer since the beginning of the year. Most about how livestock and poultry perceptions, educating the public have occurred in children who were producers use antibiotics, according and improving modern agriculture exhibiting pigs at state or county to Jeff Bender, DVM, associate practices. One of the featured fairs, or people who visited swine professor, University of Minnesota speakers was Candace Croney, exhibits at fairs. College of Veterinary Medicine. The Purdue University associate MDH officials emphasized that comments were made in an interview professor of animal sciences, who H3N2v does not pose any food safety with Mike Adams, host of AgriTalk, at spoke about the factors impacting risk – there is no evidence that you the annual meeting of the American public perceptions of animal welfare can get it by eating pork. The illness Veterinary Medical Association and animal rights. ''What we are also tends to be relatively mild – (AVMA) held this week in San Diego, seeing is that more and more people similar in severity to recent strains of Calif. Pork Network, 8/8/2012 are concerned about animal welfare regular, seasonal flu. Hospitalization issues,'' says Croney, who shared a rates for H3N2v have been relatively roundup of statistics to prove her American Meat Institute Foundation low. They did note, however, that this Unveils 15th Anniversary Edition of point. Beef Magazine, 8/14/2012 year’s regular seasonal flu vaccine Animal Care & Handling Guidelines & will not protect against H3N2v. Audit Guide First cases of new influenza strain Health officials stressed that The American Meat Institute reported in Minnesota there is no reason to discourage Foundation (AMIF) today unveiled the Minnesota has recorded its first people from patronizing live animal 2012 Recommended Animal Care & confirmed case and a second markets – or visiting the upcoming Handling Guidelines & Audit Guide, probable case of a new influenza State Fair, local county fairs or other now in its 15th year. Authored by strain that people acquire through venues where pigs may be present – leading animal welfare expert Temple contact with pigs. because of concerns about H3N2v. Grandin, Ph.D., the audit guide has The two cases were reported in a MDH has joined fair officials in revolutionized the way the meat pre-school-age child and an older discouraging fairgoers or exhibitors packing industry handles animals sibling from a family living in the Twin from eating, drinking or placing and measures animal welfare based Cities metro area. Both children anything in their mouths while in upon simple core criteria. developed symptoms of the illness animal exhibit areas, and The audit grew out of a report two days after the family visited a live emphasizing the importance of that Grandin did for the U.S. animal market in Dakota County on washing their hands with soap and Department of Agriculture in 1996, in Aug. 10. Neither child required running water after any exposure to which she hypothesized that animal hospitalization, and both are animals. welfare did not have to be subjective, recovering. People who are running a fever but rather could be evaluated Officials at the Minnesota or have other flu symptoms are being objectively using numeric criteria. Department of Health (MDH) believe advised to avoid contact with pigs, AMIF asked Dr. Grandin to author an both children were most likely since H3N2v can be passed from audit based upon this concept, and exposed to the new flu strain from humans to pigs, as well as from pigs the original version was released in pigs while they were at the animal to humans. 1997. By 1999, major restaurant Health officials say there is no chains began requiring audits as a market. reason to forgo a trip to the fair . condition of doing business and People usually get the new strain However, they do suggest taking a other customers soon followed. of flu – known as variant H3N2 prudent approach if you are at high PR Newswire, 8/13/2012 (H3N2v) – from pigs rather than other people. A few cases have been risk for complications of the flu.
Shepherd’s News Page 8 CAPITOL CONNECTION ASI Applauds USDA for Additional producers, feeders and processing Lamb Purchase companies in response to a "The American Sheep Industry proposed change to the assessment Association (ASI) greatly appreciates rate for the American lamb checkoff. the U.S. Department of Agriculture's A vast majority of the comments (USDA) announcement of a $10 were supportive of the increase in million supplemental lamb the rate, the first since the board was purchase," said Association instituted 10 years ago as an President Margaret Soulen Hinson. industry-wide board for lamb "The drought assistance package for businesses. The promotion program members, 34 U.S. senators, a large livestock producers, including this has completed two nationwide coalition of livestock, poultry, meat, provision for lamb, is welcome news referendums since 2002 and, similar dairy and feed organizations and the to help strengthen feeder and to the ratio of positive comments on United Nations in favor of granting slaughter lamb prices." this proposal, those votes were also the RFS waiver. "This is significant funding to supported by a super majority of Last week's crop report released move surplus product out of the way participants. by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for the new crop lambs and The U.S. Department of shows U.S. corn supplies for 2012- represents the most efficient way for Agriculture will consider the 2013 will hit a nine-year low due to our industry to get current on supply," comments and provide a formal the nation's record-breaking drought added Peter Orwick, ASI executive response, which is anticipated this and other factors, which will drive director. "The bottom line of the fall or early winter. record corn prices even higher. Corn USDA program is to strengthen the "The lamb program is the sole is projected at a record $7.50 to farm-gate price for lambs, which are livestock checkoff in the United $8.90 per bushel, up sharply from currently less than half of the 2011 States, and likely worldwide, that the $5.40 to $6.40 per bushel record highs. assesses producers, feeders, projected in July. USDA announced its intent to exporters and packing companies to Farmers unite to limit EPA purchase up to $170 million of lamb, share the financial and budgeting regulations responsibilities of the activities of the pork, chicken and catfish for federal One little word can mean so American Lamb Board," stated Peter food nutrition programs, including much. In relation to the Clean Water Orwick, executive director of the food banks. The purchase will help Act, that word is “navigable,” and the American Sheep Industry relieve pressure on American Environmental Protection Agency livestock producers during the Association. (EPA) and the Army Corps of drought, while helping to bring the [Ed. Note: several MLWPA members Engineers are trying to get rid of it. If nation's meat supply in line with submitted comments to USDA.] they succeed, EPA will have the demand and providing high quality, authority to regulate nearly every nutritious food to recipients of Growing Chorus Calling for RFS drop of water, and some dry land, USDA's nutrition programs. Up to $10 Waiver too. With this additional authority for million will be used to purchase lamb EPA comes a likely deluge of Govs. Mike Beebe (Ark.) and products, up to $100 million for pork regulations and permitting Beverly Perdue (N.C.) have become products, up to $10 million for requirements for farmers, ranchers the third and fourth governors to catfish products and up to $50 and other landowners. This is why urge Environmental Protection million for chicken products. the American Farm Bureau Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa Orwick concluded, "This funding Federation has launched the “Stop Jackson to use her existing waiver shows USDA is as aggressive in the Flood of Regulation” campaign. providing drought aid as they can be authority as soon as possible to while the agriculture industry seeks adjust the corn-ethanol mandate for Farm Bill Extension Path Possible re-authorization of disaster the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). As the week progressed, it provisions via Congress, such as the Last week, Govs. Martin O'Malley appeared there was growing support Livestock Forage Program." (Md.) and Jack Markell (Del.) issued for a one-year extension of the 2008 similar appeals to the EPA. Farm Bill including disaster Lamb Checkoff Comments Posted The governors' letters join provisions for livestock producers. More than 100 comments were appeals by 156 U.S. House filed over the last 60 days by lamb Shepherd’s News Page 9
CAPITOL CONNECTION - CONT . House Republican leaders are against a bill that would set uniform have conducted wolf removal at 62 readying a one-year extension of standards for the treatment of egg- sites and taken 130 wolves. 101 farm and nutrition programs that laying hens and egg labeling. The bill private wolf controllers have trapped includes disaster aid for drought- is based on a compromise between over 35 sites and removed over 36 affected farmers and ranchers, the United Egg Producers (UEP), wolves. 13 wolves have been taken lawmakers said Thursday. The short- which represents 90 percent of the by private landowners. term extension is attracting industry by volume, and the Humane The Elections are near bipartisan support and could reach Society of the United States. It seems like we have been the House floor. The provisions include phasing in inundated with campaign ads for In his weekly press conference on larger cages for hens over the next months, but as the November Thursday, House Speaker John 18 years. The bill would also regulate elections draw near, expect those Boehner (Ohio) said he believed the the labeling of egg cartons to give ads to continue to ramp up. In House would address the livestock consumers more information about addition to the President, you will be disaster situation before going home the animals that produced their eggs. voting for a US Senator, and for your in August and a vote may come as Farmers in favor of the bill US Congressional Representative, as early as Wednesday. described it as vital to the future well as your state Representative A spokeswoman for House stability of the industry, while a and Senator, and a number of local Agriculture Committee Chairman witness opposed to the measure said positions. Study the candidates and Frank Lucas (Okla.) said, "There are a it would force many smaller egg how they stand on issues that are variety of considerations regarding farmers to leave the business. the path forward for the Farm Bill. Sheep, beef and pork producers are important to you and your farm. And, there's concern about the also opposed to the bill as they are Agriculture is represented by an impact of the drought and the best concerned that it will set a precedent ever dwindling number of legislators, way to address it, but no decisions that will ultimately affect them. which is why it is critical that we as farmers get out and support those have been made at present." [Ed. Note: the farmers in favor of this candidates who support farms and The Senate's version of the Farm bill live in states that have already ranches. It is more than just voting— Bill and the House Ag Committee's passed legislation forcing them to consider getting involved in bill both include major livestock switch to enhanced colony cages.] disaster programs and allows them campaigns, putting up yard signs, to pay retroactively in 2012. talking to your friends and neighbors, The move could have hindered MN Wolf Permit Deadline, Sept 6 and even making campaign chances of a five-year You can now apply for a wolf contributions to help your candidates reauthorization but Senate hunting and trapping permit. 6,000 be successful. Agriculture Committee Chairwoman licenses will be offered through a At the state level, experts are Debbie Stabenow (Mich.) indicated lottery drawing. The lottery will award predicting as many as 60 brand new that, upon House passage, she will 3,600 licenses during the early legislators this year. Get to know immediately seek to move the bill to season and 2,400 during the late these new officials. conference committee, according to season, at least 600 of which will be MLWPA does not have a PAC, so House Agriculture Committee for trapping. Deadline to apply is you will not see any list of “endorsed” Ranking Member Collin Peterson Thursday, Sept. 6. Application can be candidates. ASI does have a PAC—so (Minn.). It will then be up to the made online, by telephone at 1-888- if you are unsure how supporting House to appoint conferees. 665-4236 or at any DNR license Senator Klobuchar or any of our Such House action could enable agent. A $4 application fee will be Congressmen/women have been, Congress to conference the Farm Bill charged. Lottery winners will be please contact Peter Orwick at ASI. legislation between the House and notified and licenses will go on sale John Dvorak, Dan Persons and Senate and pass a new Farm Bill by Monday, Oct. 15. Jeremy Geske have served on ASI’s before the current one expires on Since January 1, USDA-Wildlife Legislative Action Committee and Sept. 30. Services has responded to 95 wolf may also be able to provide you Senate Ag Committee Debates Egg complaints (81 livestock, 13 pets, some insight on how well our Bill and 1 human safety). Of the 95 congressional delegation has voted complaints, 63 were verified. Since The Senate Agriculture on issues important to the lamb and April 1, 2012, Wildlife Services staff Committee heard arguments for and wool industry. Shepherd’s News Page 10
L AMB P RICE UPDATE FROM K ENT G WILLIAM
Lamb prices reported firm or stronger in most 40-60 lbs 130.00-175.00 markets this past week. There is quite a difference 60-80 lbs 126.00-172.00 between regional results. 80-90 lbs 112.00-146.00 Aug 18, Twin Falls, ID 90-110 lbs 108.00-128.00 Feeder Lambs 60-85lbs—$.75 - $1.08/lb 110-130 lbs 100.00-126.00 Slaughter Lambs 94-139lbs—$.79 - $.95 130-150 lbs 120.00-128.00 Good Ewes 135 - 258lbs—$.21 - $.40 Billings Montana August 13 Bucks pkg 300lbs—$.40 Feeder Lambs 60-88lbs—$1.02 - $1.23/lb Willard UT Aug 14 Slaughter Lambs 91-116lbs—$.91 - $1.09 Feeder Lambs 64-95lbs—$.84 - $.98/lb
Slaughter Lambs 112-145lbs—$.80 - $1.01 Thanks for the reports. Please keep them coming. Good Ewes scarce People want to know what is happening out there. Old Ewes 150-170lbs—$.15 - $.21 Kent Bucks 185-270lbs—$.20 - $.28 Want to subscribe to this weekly email? Visit: New Holland PA Aug 13 www.mountainlamb.com Slaughter Lambs Choice Prime [Ed. Note: Kent Gwilliam is a sheep 40-60 lbs 177.00-220.00 producer who started sharing 60-80 lbs 152.00-195.00 weekly lamb prices and sheep sale results that he gathers from 80-90 lbs 142.00-160.00 producers across the US. While 90-110 lbs 125.00-150.00 MLWPA does not endorse Kent’s 110-130 lbs 130.00-147.00 efforts to share price information, 130-150 lbs 146.00 we wanted to make others aware of this free email service as another 150-200 lbs 130.00-136.00 option to gather information on Choice 2-3 sheep and lamb prices.]
W EEKLY N ATIONAL M ARKET P RICES FOR W OOL & L AMB Market Summary, Week ending August 10, 2012 Feeder Prices, San Angelo, 50-55 lbs. for 100-101 $/cwt.; 60-80 lbs. for 90-99 $/cwt. Slaughter Prices - Negotiated, Live, wooled and shorn 100-155 lbs. for 95-130 $/cwt. (wtd. ave. 113.39). Slaughter Prices - Formula1, 2,388 head at 270.03-295.64 $/cwt. for 67.60 ave. lbs.; 4,801 head at 216.31- 265.96 $/cwt. for 109 ave. lbs. Equity Electronic Auction, Wooled 145 lbs. for $110.50/cwt. Cutout value/Net carcass value2, $291.81/cwt. Carcass Price, Choice and Prime, YG 1-4, weighted averages, 1,148 head at 55-65 lbs. for $320.58/cwt., 2,020 head at 65-75 lbs. for $300.26/cwt., 1,693 head at 75-85 lbs. for $285.15/cwt., 998 head at 85 lbs. and up for $237.72/cwt. Exported Adult Sheep, 0. Wool, Price ($/pound) Clean, Delivered, 4-Week Old Price Denoted with *: 18 micron (Grade 80s) NA, 19 micron (Grade 80s) NA, 20 micron (Grade 70s) 3.73*, 21 micron (Grade 64-70s) 4.36, 22 micron (Grade 64s) 3.99, 23 micron (Grade 62s) 3.78, 24 micron (Grade 60-62s) 3.63, 25 micron (Grade 58s) 3.28, 26 micron (Grade 56-58s) 2.90, 27 micron (Grade 56s) 2.51, 28 micron (Grade 54s) NA, 29 micron (Grade 50-54s) NA, 30-34 micron (Grade 44-50s) NA. (Source: USDA/Agricultural Marketing Service) [Ed. Note: these prices are from 8/10/12 - to receive weekly email price updates—please be sure that ASI has your current email address and that your membership dues are current. Shepherd’s News Page 11 MDA OFFERS LIVESTOCK IMPROVEMENT GRANTS Minnesota Agriculture Qualifying expenditures include the livestock or land purchases or for the Commissioner Dave Frederickson purchase, construction, or cost of debt refinancing. has announced that $1 million in improvement of buildings or facilities The deadline to apply for the grant funding is being made for the production of livestock, and grant program is January 14, 2013. available to livestock producers in the purchase of fencing as well as More information on the Minnesota the state for on-farm improvements. feeding and waste management Livestock Investment Program can Qualifying producers would be equipment. Producers who suffered be found on the MDA website at reimbursed ten percent of the first a loss due to a natural disaster or www.mda.state.mn.us/livestockinves $500,000 of investment, with a unintended consequence may also tmentgrant. apply. The grant will not pay for minimum investment of $4,000. NRCS D ROUGHT GRANTS TO HELP RANCHERS The U.S. Department of applications for Conservation 15. Private individuals, tribes, local Agriculture's Natural Resources Innovation Grants (CIG) to help and state governments and non- Conservation Service (NRCS) producers build resiliency into their governmental organizations can announced the availability of up to production systems so they can apply. $5 million in grants to evaluate and adapt to climatic extremes, such as For additional information, go to demonstrate agricultural practices the historic drought impacting the www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs that help farmers and ranchers nation. /main/national/programs/financial/ adapt to drought. NRCS is taking Grant applications are due Oct. cig.
USDA V ALUE-ADDED GRANTS The U.S. Department of working capital expenses, but not for Businesses of all sizes are Agriculture's Rural Development is both. The maximum grant amount is encouraged to apply. Grants are making up to $14 million for the $100,000 for planning grants and available for projects up to 36 Value Added Producer Grant program $300,000 for working capital grants. months in duration. available for projects that help Generating new products, creating Additional information is farmers and ranchers increase the and expanding marketing available at value of their products. The grants, opportunities and increasing www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012- which are competitively awarded, are producer income are the goals of the 08-15/pdf/2012-20082.pdf. available for planning activities or for VAPG program.
NEW MN STATE FAIR FOODS - LAMB FRIES, ETC.
Lamb Fries flavor. At Rainbow Ice Cream, Five Traditional Middle Eastern dish different locations including Carousel of lamb testicles marinated with Holy Park, Underwood Street north of Dan Land spices. Served grilled with Patch Avenue, Underwood Street sauteed onions or deep fried in a south of Dan Patch Avenue, Carnes crumb coating and served with Avenue at Liggett Street, and the traditional dill sauce. At Holy Land Agriculture Horticulture Building. Deli, Located in the International Bazaar, southeast corner. This is just 3 examples of the 40 Lamb Chop on a stick new foods at the 2012 MN State Bacon Ice Cream 100% grassfed specially seasoned Fair. How many will you try? Real cooked and candied bacon lamb loin chops served on-a-stick. At in ice cream with a hint of maple Lamb Shoppe. Shepherd’s News Page 12 S HEEP WORK WELL FOR SMALLER ACREAGES U SED WITH PERMISSION FROM "MINNESOTA F ARM G UIDE " B Y ANDREA JOHNSON, A SSISTANT E DITOR
As the U.S. sheep industry strives season started out very successfully, to build numbers, producers are with the first 12 ewes coming in with pointing out that sheep can work well five sets of triplets and no singles. on smaller land parcels. Not every Then, when the number of ewes flock has to be big. Minnesota has that had lambed reached between about 3,000 sheep farms that raise 30-40, there were a couple of single 130,000 sheep. That’s an average of lambs born, and another ewe had just 43-44 sheep per farm. mummified triplets. “From a personal standpoint, “You start having a single lamb there was some decent money to be born here and there, and it brought made on them last year. It definitely our average down quick to about Randy & Cathy Kinney, Andrew and Riley gives you a little incentive to push a 200 percent,” Randy said. “Usually, if few more through,” said Randy you are going to have these issues, it of 25 percent Finn (reproduction), 25 Kinney, who raises Polypay sheep comes at the beginning of lambing. percent Rambouillet (adaptation and near Glenwood. We still aren’t exactly sure what good fleece), 25 percent Dorset Randy and his wife, Cathy, and (carcass qualities) and 25 percent caused these issues.” their sons, Andrew, 16, and Riley, 14, Targhee (wool). In 2012, they intend Like many sheep producers in lambed out 86 ewes in 2012, three to breed about 20 ewes to Polypay the upper Midwest, the Kinneys rely more ewes than in 2011. rams for the replacement flock, and on the Pipestone Veterinary Clinic The Kinneys purchased and breed the rest to Hampshire rams for and the Minnesota West Pipestone moved to their Pope County farm of fast growing and well-muscled Campus Lamb & Wool Program. 83 acres in 2002. Randy was raised terminal lambs. He also serves as the West Central on a dairy farm, but has a “Our goal is to maintain an Minnesota director of the Minnesota Mechanical Engineering degree and average birthrate per ewe of two Lamb & Wool Producers (MLWP), the works as an engineer in Alexandria. lambs,” Randy said. “This year, we state organization of the American “To me, the sheep operation is a just barley accomplished that goal.” Sheep Industry Association. He great secondary income and wants to encourage sheep producers Even when farmers strive to do livelihood,” he said. “Not a lot of our and those who are interested in everything right with the ewe flock, land is tillable, some is ponds and sheep production to join the MLWP, lambing can be challenging. swamp land, and the rest is pasture. with the application available at Starvation, hypothermia, disease and We ended up bumping into some predators are all concerns when www.mlwp.org. people that had sheep, and decided raising lambs. The Kinneys have “One of the things we did this to go that route to utilize the found that every lambing is unique. year is to keep a handle on feed pasture.” costs by getting the lambs weaned at They converted a tie-stall dairy They started with a flock of 20 barn into a multipurpose six to eight weeks of age,” he said. ewes that were a Polypay-type, but sheep/lambing barn. The barn can Feeding nursing ewes was with closer to a 3/8 Finnish hold up to 65 ewes for lambing in expensive with this year’s higher cost Landrace-cross mix. They gradually early March. The ewes and lambs go of alfalfa. With early weaning, the increased the size of the operation outside once they can hold their own. Kinneys were able to get the ewes as they gained experience with Another 20 ewes are lambed in the dried off and back out on grass. The raising sheep. They decided to back barn during the second week of April. lambs are fed a corn/pellet ration off on the Finn breeding as these through finishing. ewes can produce four to six lambs If the weather is challenging in The Kinneys are members of the that are generally smaller and March, it can be difficult to move Dakota Lamb Growers that has require significant management. ewes and lambs out to make room for newborns. finished lamb buying agreements Soon the Kinneys settled on a with Chicago and Colorado In 2012, the weather during breeding program to transition their processors, intending to sell them as lambing was beautiful. The lambing ewes closer to the Polypay breed mix natural lamb. Shepherd’s News Page 13 S HEEP SHEARERS LIKE CUTTING IT CLOSE B Y B RUCE F ALK — E DITOR , T RI- S TATE N EIGHBOR
Alex Moser yanks the next sheep But Moser is only one of several a different workplace each day. They into position with powerful arms highly talented shearers on today's talked of a continuing passion to strengthened during 17 years of crew working in Tripp. Standing improve at their trade, and they cited plying his trade. He grabs his shears beside him in the shearing line is that aspect as one of the most and starts peeling a thick coat of Mark Hoogendoorn, also of Lester, important benefits of taking part in wool off the startled animal. the current U.S. champion. competitions. Moments later, he releases the Hoogendoorn, 24, took first prize in "You can always pick up some little shorn sheep and reaches for the next the professional category Jan. 29 at thing that makes your technique recipient of his specialty cut - real the National Sheep Shearing better," Mark Hoogendoorn said. Championships at the Black Hills short, all around. Then he grabs Often, improvement involves Stock Show in Rapid City, S.D., another animal, and another, until a something that sounds minor, such fine May morning has passed at finishing one spot ahead of Moser. as a slight adjustment in the Dave DeGroot's farm near Tripp, S.D. Working a little farther down the placement of a foot to control the Such is the life of a sheep shearer line is Hoogendoorn's younger animal better. But the little things - rising early, traveling far and wide, brother, Kyle, a student at Iowa State can mean a sharp increase in spending long hours at the physically University in Ames, Iowa; and Ryan efficiency in handling each sheep, demanding task of wrestling large Ullom, 27, of Shell Lake, Wis. Both which saves a lot of energy for high- animals into position for a grooming were matching their crewmates quality shearers who run through session they're not eager to receive. sheep for sheep as the animals hundreds of animals a day. funneled ahead from their holding In some ways, it's a hard life, but it Moser sighed with his memory of pens toward a sharp-bladed has its attractions, and each member the fatigue he felt after setting his of the four-man crew working at reception. personal record of 423 sheep in a DeGroot's farm this day is carrying Ullom sharpened his skills in New day; Mark Hoogendoorn said 301 himself with an upbeat demeanor. Zealand, which generally is was his high-wool mark. recognized as the global capital of "It's kind of addictive," Moser said. "It's mostly all in your legs," he shearing, after he decided to pursue "I don't see myself hanging the said. Good legwork helps a shearer the profession. He figured he would control each animal with less effort, shears up anytime soon." be able to learn from the best. Later keeping the hands and arms free to The 31-year-old from Lester, Iowa, on, he said with a laugh, "I decided I is fresh off a trip in February and wanted to come back to the U.S. to let the shears do their work. early March to Masterton, New work more hours for less pay." The shearers get about all the Zealand, where he represented the work they want because of a For Kyle Hoogendoorn, shearing is United States in the 52nd annual shortage of them. DeGroot, a a great way to defray college Golden Shears international longtime sheep dealer, said of the expenses. The pay is good - he competition. He participated in the difficulties in securing shearers, "It's estimated that he could make machine-shearing portion of the enough to keep some producers $60,000 if he went at it full time - event, which often is described as and he gets to see a lot of the from getting into the sheep trade." the Wimbledon of sheep shearing. countryside on his way to jobs. Next would be a drive back home The competition drew 500 shearers to northwest Iowa for a night of rest But such an extensive itinerary and woolhandlers from 25 nations. before the cycle of travel and toil pales next to that of his brother, who Moser qualified to be a U.S. began anew on another workday does extended shearing stints in representative based on his Montana. The shearers chortled filled with shear delights. cumulative scores at a series of when asked about being married; the [Ed. Note: This article was edited for domestic competitions. Such travel, they said, can be hard on space—to see the full article—contact contests are based on shearers' relationships. Bruce Falk at the Tri-State Neighbor speed and accuracy, including such at [email protected]] factors as how many pieces make up But the men all agreed about the shaved wool and how many cuts feeling satisfaction in working with the sheep incur. people they enjoy, with handling animals, with the variety afforded by Shepherd’s News Page 14
C LASSIFIED A DS Your Business Card Sized ad could Sheep Equipment: Feeders, blankets, hoof trimming chair and other be here promoting your flock! sheep equipment for sale. We had to disperse our flock, and we have used equipment for sale. Contact Mary at [email protected]. For ad sizes & prices—contact Jeremy at: [email protected] Commercial ewe lambs: April born commercial whitefaced ewe lambs. Dorset/ Polypay/ Finn breeding. Flock has a 180-200% lamb crop history. Available July/August. Dan Persons 320-986-2336.
Sheep Shearer: Need your sheep sheared? Contact Bob Smith, New We process lambs! Richland, MN at 507-456-8179
Suffolk Rams: Performance-tested, RR rams for sale. Improve your genetics with a high-quality JMG Suffolk ram. Contact Jeremy Geske at 612-756-1200 or [email protected]
Do you have breeding stock, fleeces, guard dogs, used sheep equipment, or other sheep-related items to sell? Odenthalmeats.com (place your classified ad here: $20/3 lines + $5/additional line) L ETTER FROM ALB CHAIR — CONT. especially when we are being lamb programs. local partners. Matching funds outspent by our competitors. Linking shepherds with chefs. Our programs led to more than 15 We want to be able to continue target market campaigns in cooperative efforts last year - from the strong efforts we have made to Boston, San Francisco, Seattle and retail supplier promotions to chef differentiate and promote American Washington DC have partnered demonstrations at state fairs. Lamb. People are interested in local local shepherds and chefs to This assessment increase will not foods and we want to be able to tell spread the American Lamb happen unless the majority of the the story of American Lamb. Here are message. More than 72 chefs industry agrees it is the right thing to just a few of the ways we have been participated in sold-out Lamb Jam do. The American Lamb Board does investing your assessment dollars: events last year. not want to move forward without Spreading American Lamb Expanding social media efforts. The industry backing. That's why I ask you messages through media relations. American Lamb efforts have moved to take the time to review and submit In FY2011, we reached more than beyond traditional media to food comments to this proposed 1 billion home cooks and chefs bloggers, YouTube videos, amendment which can be found at with messages about American Facebook messages, Twitter https://www.federalregister.gov. Lamb in newspaper, magazine and parties and more. American Lamb This is an industry-funded and electronic placements. Board websites were revamped industry-managed program. We are Building year round use through this year so make sure to check here to help support the marketplace seasonal campaigns. American them out! for the American sheep industry. Lamb has moved beyond spring Educating chefs, retailers and Make sure to share your holidays with seasonal retail home cooks about lamb cut thoughts. campaigns helping consumers to diversity. We are teaching about Sincerely, "get their grill on" in the summer cut diversity (beyond the rack), Nick Forrest and "become a lamb lover" in ease of use and benefits of Chairperson February. In 2011, Kroger and American Lamb. Walmart committed to domestic Sharing funds with suppliers and American Lamb Board Plan to attend the 2012 Shepherd’s Holiday Dec. 1—Country Inn & Suites, Mankato, MN Shepherd’s News Page 15
2012 Date Title Location Contact Sept. 7-9 Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival Jefferson, WI Sept. 15 ISBA Shearing School Augusta, WI 715 286-4157 Sept. 19 Hettinger Ram Sale Hettinger, ND Julie Mangnall (701) 678-2168 Sept. 20-21 Newell Ram Sale Newell, SD Sept. 22-23 SD Wool Growers Annual Meeting Lead, SD Steve Clements [email protected] Sept. 23 Badger Production Sale Arlington, WI Todd Taylor [email protected] Sept. 28 Michigan Shearing School Ogenaw County Fairgrounds Jim Bristol Oct. 6/7 MN Sheep Fiber Farm Tour Houston County Jean Mueller [email protected] Oct. 11 Utah Ram Sale Spanish Fork, UT Oct. 13 Cambridge Fiber Fair/ Alpaca Sale Cambridge, MN Brian Brown 763-807-3205 Oct. 27 North Star Bred Ewe Sale Pipestone, MN Nov. 3-16 NAILE Louisville, KY Nov. 13-15 NIAA Symposium on Antibiotic Use Columbus, OH www.animalagriculture.org Nov. 24 MN Bred Ewe Sale Rochester, MN Nov. 30/Dec. 1 Montana Wool Growers Annual mtg Billings, MT Brent Roeder 406-442-1330 Dec. 1 MLWP Shepherd’s Holiday Mankato, MN Jeremy Geske [email protected] 2013 Date Jan. 23-26 ASI Annual Convention San Antonio, TX www.sheepusa.org TBD Spring Sheep Workshop & Farm Tour Kasota, MN John Dvorak [email protected] May 1 (tent.) MN Suffolk, Hamp, Dorset & Southdown On-line Sale Jeremy Geske [email protected] Have an item for the calendar—email it to Jeremy . c/o Jeremy Geske 31307 171st Ave New Prague, MN 56071
MLWP Board of Directors
President - Kirk Roe SE Dir. - Steve Scheffert [email protected] [email protected] 507-526-5845 507-835-3951
1st Vice President - John Dvorak SW Dir. - Mike Haubrich [email protected] [email protected] www.mlwp.org 952-652-2402 320-826-2526
2nd V.P. - Melanie Pamp WC Dir. - Randy Kinney [email protected] [email protected] 507-629-4444 320-554-6495
Secretary - Jeremy Geske - ME Dir. - Mary Radermacher [email protected] 320-963-6592
Treasurer - Glenette Sperry Past Presidents: [email protected] Have an idea for the newsletter? Dan Persons - NE Dir. - Steve Froehlich [email protected] Send it to: [email protected] Jeremy Geske - editor 320-396-3135 Don Adelmann 31307 171st Ave 952-466-2451 New Prague, MN 56071 NW Dir. - Karen Stormo [email protected] - Phone: 612-756-1200 218-776-2223 E-mail: [email protected]