Content by Jaelyn Whaley

Producer shearing a sheep inside a barn.

Shearing Before Lambing: A Management Tool for Lamb Growth and Survival

While some producers shear primarily for wool management, recent research has shown that pre-lambing shearing can also influence lamb birth weight, vigor, and early growth.

Two young women observing a group of sheep in a holding pen.

Managing Sheep Keds

Sheep keds (Melophagus ovinus) are blood-sucking external parasites that can significantly impact sheep production.

SDSU meat counter decorated for the holidays. Four employees stand at the front counter smiling.

Direct Marketing Lamb: Selling to the Ethnic Market

The ethnic market plays a crucial role in the success of the American lamb industry. Learn some keys to success for taking advantage of seasonal demand and price fluctuations in this growing market, including when and where to sell.

Lamb with older sheep in the background

Three outstanding operations receive SD Master Lamb Producer Awards

October 30, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension is pleased to announce the winners of the 2025 Master Lamb Producer Awards.

Lambs and ewes in a holding pen.

Managing Late-Gestation Heat Stress in Fall-Lambing Ewes

As South Dakota sheep producers navigate more high-heat days and longer warm seasons, we will have to work to adapt flock management to maintain health and productivity.

A person holds a sheep to their chest and uses shears to shear the sheep's wool off it's stomach

SDSU Extension to host Sheep Shearing School

August 26, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension will teach the skill of sheep shearing to current and prospective producers this fall.

A man in a warehouse surrounded by bags of wool speaks to a group of people

Applications open for SDSU Extension Elevate Ewe program

August 22, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension is inviting beginning sheep producers to apply to the 2024-2025 Elevate Ewe program.

A field of flowering alfalfa.

Nitrate QuikTest for Forages

The Nitrate QuikTest for Forages is available at various SDSU Extension locations and veterinary clinics across the state and is designed to be used with standing forages prior to harvesting for hay or grazing.

Producer examining a white lamb.

Coccidiosis in Lambs

Coccidiosis in lambs is a significant health concern that requires prompt recognition and treatment to minimize its impact. It primarily impacts young lambs, leading to severe gastrointestinal distress and potential economic losses for sheep producers.

Pregnant sheep ultrasound day 25

Detecting Pregnancy and Litter Size in Ewes Using Ultrasound

Guide providing insights on optimal timing for pregnancy scanning, what to look for at different gestational stages, and practical ultrasound techniques for the best results.