March 29, 2024

From the Pastures: The new normal

In one week in northern Illinois the weather turned from summer temperatures too much more like fall. It rained for four straight days and the thermometer stayed around 60 degrees. Maybe those stores starting the pumpkin spice already had some inside information.

This past weekend is normally the tie for the Wisconsin Sheep and Wool Festival. The sheep shows and fleece shows did happen, but the country store was all virtual this year. We were given an hour time slot to do a live sale. The only good part about not being at the festival was the ability to give a virtual tour of the mill. Several people commented that they enjoyed the tour. We really missed seeing and talking to people at the festival. It was good to at least have the opportunity to show our fiber and products via the computer.

This was our second virtual live event. After getting past a couple minor technical difficulties, the live sales went well. We were amazed at how many people watched from all over the country. We were able to focus on fiber from the three breeds of sheep raised on our farm. I was surprised at the interest in the Scottish Blackface fiber. It does make really nice batts and several people told us they wanted to try the fiber.

Next month I am going to look for a new Shetland ram. It is time to bring in some new genetics to the flock. I would really like to find a gray-colored ram. Shetland grey fiber is really nice to spin. This year I have a nice group of yearling ewes which should have good lambs.

Harvest time will be here soon and may have already started in your area. Hope everyone has a safe harvest.

Belvidere, Ill.