Sheep Production

All Sheep Production Content

small group of sheep standing in a pasture

Sheep & Goats

South Dakota ranks sixth nationally in sheep and wool production. And the industry is growing.

Producer feeding a flock of sheep

Elevate Ewe

Elevate Ewe is designed for beginning sheep producers who want to develop or improve a full or part-time sheep operation.

Sheep producer moving a flock at pasture.

Will Your Summer Pastures Meet Your Flock’s Needs?

Sheep can readily thrive on pasture in the summer. However, monitoring forage quality and meeting mineral requirements on range is important to optimize production.

A young lamb standing in a barn stall.

Lamb Cut Pricing Calculator

Calculator to help estimate the cost to feed a lamb to harvest weight and breakeven required by selling lamb cuts.

Merino sheep eating from a small feeding trough.

Mineral Considerations for Sheep

Minerals play an integral role in many reactions throughout a sheep's body, and they are critical for animal health, performance, and the profitability of an operation.

Two sheep producers observing sheep in a corral.

Direct Marketing Lamb: Estimating Finish Weights

Determining when lambs should be harvested is critical for optimal quality and consumer satisfaction.

Flock of young lambs grazing fall pasture.

Breeding Ewe Lambs

Breeding ewe lambs can lead to an increase in the long-term flock productivity and profitability. Learn some expert tips to help determine whether breeding ewes is the right fit for your operation.

Close-up of a sheep’s nose, mouth, and teeth.

Mouthing Sheep for Age and the Value of Dental Condition

Dental problems in sheep can lead to long-term loss of production and decreased lifespan. Mouthing is a valuable tool for making culling decisions or identifying age when purchasing sheep.

Flock of newborn lambs in a barn.

Creep Feeding Lambs

Creep feeding, when combined with access to fresh water, can support early growth and weaning in young lambs. Learn some expert tips for creating an ideal creep feeding environment to get your lambs off to a great start this season.

Newborn lamb feeding under a heat lamp.

Electrical Safety in the Barn

From heat lamps to extension cords, learn some important fire safety considerations when electricity is used to warm up your barn during lambing and kidding season.