Too little floor space for ewes and lambs may be causing increased occurrences of mastitis. Photo:

Production system, shearing status and lamb numbers are important factors in barn decisions

Floor and bunk space play a vital role in sheep health

Within the sheep industry there isn’t one ideal design when building or retro-fitting a facility. This leads to an array of facilities, ideas and layouts in production systems across the province, although, there are factors to keep in mind to allow for efficiency and improved health of the flock. Why it matters: Barn layouts affect […] Read more

ontario sheep

Condition scoring added to COFS sheep handling demo

The new demonstration will showcase how the practice can help farmers manage flock condition

Sheep body condition scoring (BCS) has been added to handling system demonstrations at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show (COFS) this year to emphasize the importance of the practice. Delma Kennedy, sheep specialist genetics and reproduction with OMAFRA, will be leading the demonstration for farmers at the Ontario Sheep Farmers’ exhibit during the three-day show in September. […] Read more

Vince Stutzki, left, Mike Swidersky and Jim Bennett talked about their sheep farms at the recent Ontario 
Sheep Convention.

Different routes to sheep farm growth

A recent panel of farmers who manage their sheep differently shows there are many routes to success

There isn’t one model of success in the sheep sector. In fact, producers have taken many routes to growing their flocks. Farmers at the recent Sheep Farmers of Ontario annual convention heard from three successful producers who have taken different routes — one with minimal buildings and investment, one with a converted dairy barn providing […] Read more