Content by Jaelyn Whaley

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

Sheep producers invited to apply to SDSU Extension Elevate Ewe cohort program

June 28, 2024

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

small group of sheep standing in a pasture
Aug 29

Elevate Ewe Application Deadline

Elevate Ewe is designed for beginning sheep producers who want to develop or improve a full or part-time sheep operation. Use the form below to apply for the SDSU Emerging Sheep Producer Program.

Wicker basket full of raw sheep’s wool sitting on a lawn.

Wool: A Natural Bio-Enhancement for Gardens

Sheep's wool has been seeing increased use in gardens as mulch or a soil additive due to its numerous benefits. Learn how wool can help your plants and garden thrive this gardening season!

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.

Man negotiating lamb purchase with female producer.

Direct Marketing Lamb: Selling to the Ethnic Market

The ethnic market plays a big role in the 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.

coyote standing in front of tall grass

SDSU Extension co-hosting livestock seminars at Lemmon farm and home show

March 01, 2024

South Dakota State University Extension will offer advice on managing sheep predators during the KBJM Farm and Home Show on March 8, 2024.

Ewe sheep eating from a feeder.

Proper Ewe Nutrition Benefits Future Lamb Performance

Supplying ewes with greater levels of energy during gestation ultimately leads to greater lamb performance throughout their lifetime.

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.

Sheep producer viewing information on a laptop computer.

Knowing Your Numbers: What are your operational benchmarks?

Tightening margins have posed a challenge to many sheep producers over the last few years. Enterprise budgeting and knowing your operational benchmarks can help.

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.