The Rural Voice, 2019-03, Page 27 There are many breeds of sheep,
’tis true, says Jay Lennox. However,
in reality, there are far more breeds
of sheep producers than sheep
breeds.
Saying this as part of a panel of
three sheep producers speaking on
“Breed Selection and Success” it was
clear Jay was alluding to personal
preference as one of the main factors
when choosing a sheep breed and
how to manage it.
His fellow panelist, Dr. Chris
Buschbeck of WoolDrift Farm near
Markdale agreed. “I tell people to
choose whatever makes you happy.
You can probably make every breed
of sheep work for you, but in the end,
the ones you like are the ones that
stick around.”
Keith Todd, of Todd Sheep Co.
near Lucknow, said he, his father,
and grandfather have tried all the
breeds during three generations of
being sheep farmers. Currently
raising Ile-de-France, Suffolk and
Southdowns, he said he is really
happy with these breeds although he
may introduce Dorset in the future.
Listening to each panelist speak, it
was clear each farmer has found their
own method of differentiating
themselves from the flock. Whether
it be milking sheep, record-keeping,
or focusing on breeding stock, the
trio revealed success comes when
you are passionate about what you
do.
Here are their stories:
As already stated, the main
breeds at Todd Sheep are Ile-
de-France (50 ewes),
Southdown (50 ewes) and Suffolk
March 2019 23
Which breed works best?
Choose a sheep breed that you like, suits your style
and can offer a specialty market, advise panelists
Straw is a primary management tool at Lennox Lambs near Ayton. Flock
owner, Jay Lennox, believes The Canadian Arcott sheep at his farm stay
healthier when they are dry, clean and comfortable. Jay and two other
sheep farmers recently shared their sheep breed preferences on a panel
at the Grey Bruce Farmers’ Week Sheep Day.
•By Lisa B. Pot •
Sheep
Keith Todd
Todd Sheep Company