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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.

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.

a herd of sheep standing in a pasture

Emerging Sheep Producers Program

The SDSU Extension Emerging Sheep Producers Program is designed for sheep producers who want to develop or improve a full or part-time sheep operation

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.

Merino sheep grazing on grassy pasture.

Using Rangeland to Extend Lambs to Meet a More-Optimal Market

Coming off a year of record prices across all classifications of sheep, the current drop in prices has been a bit discouraging. Using historic pricing data, we can observe seasonal price fluctuations that may make holding onto lambs a little longer a more-profitable option.

Sheep at a freshly cleaned watering station.

Sheep Water Requirements and Quality Testing

Water intake is critical for ensuring flock health, performance and heat stress mitigation. Learn some key considerations for water quality and intake requirements.

Breeding goat in a show pen.

Summer Sheep and Goat Show Sale Requirements

Summer is on the way and with it many sheep and goat shows and sales. Do you have the right documentation to be transporting your animals?