We just got back from a 2 day seminar put on by the Minnesota Lamb and Wool. I will go through my notes and post some of the things we learned in the coming weeks.
The seminar was worth every penny. We had classes with veterinarians and were able to ask a multitude of questions. We had vendors who we could discuss issues with. Pipestone Vet and Sydell were there. They brought some of their products and were available for questions.
At the end of the weekend we had the opportunity to tour a 1,000 ewe "farm" (do I say farm or ranch? I usually say ranch.) The owner spent a lot of time and money trying to get as many thing automated as he could. We saw many things we would like to try and implement here.
Some of our classes included: Scrapie, Bio security, Industry Challenges, Wool grading, and even wool dying.
There was a contest on who brought the finest fleece sample from their flock. They micron tested the samples and our little Bam Bam won. We did not have a long enough sample to bring from anyone except for our 2 ram lambs because we sheared a few months ago. We decided to bring a lock from Bam Bam because he is so soft. His sample was 16.8 microns and was so consistent. He won $50. We are so happy for him. Unfortunately, there were no other breeder there who had the fleece and breeding characteristics we need, so it looks like artificial insemination will be a must in a couple of years.
My mother and grandmother took the kids to a hotel and came back to feed and care for our animals. They did a great job. It was nice knowing that everyone is cared for.
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