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Table of Association
Advertisers Index ............................................. Advertising Opportunities .............................. Amnesty Program ............................................ Bylaws ............................................................. Calendar of Events ........................................... Committees ..................................................... Digital Suffolk ................................................... Directors ........................................................... Fees/Services .................................................. Financial Report ............................................... Futurity Program .............................................. GAP Program ..................................................... Hall of Fame ...................................................... Meet Your Board of Directors .......................... Member Benefits ............................................. Member List ..................................................... 131 10 95 10 18 8 14 11 8 55 88 93 82 62 81 68
Membership Application .................................. Mission/Vision Statement ............................... Office Staff ....................................................... Online Sales ...................................................... Percentage Program ....................................... Photo & Video Tips............................................ President’s Letter ............................................ Presidents/Secretaries ................................... Ram Sale Listings ............................................. Registrations by Member ................................. Registrations by State...................................... Registry Programs ........................................... State Suffolk Associations .............................. Suffolk Resource Library ................................. The Suffolk Event ............................................. USSA Districts ................................................... Visit Us Online ................................................... 80 9 7 19 94 56 6 7 19 55 55 93 10 21 114
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CONTENTS Calendar of Events ....................................... Directors/Interns ......................................... Junior Member List ....................................... Meet Your Junior Board ................................ National Junior Suffolk Show ....................... President’s Message .................................... Regional Junior Shows.................................. The Suffolk Event ......................................... Sponsor List .................................................. Promotional Contests ................................... 100 96 98 100 110 96 97 108 97 105 Juniors
Resource Library
Body Condition Score .................................. Breed Standard............................................ Breeding Programs ..................................... Carcass Evaluation ...................................... Common Sheep Diseases............................. Cooking with Lamb…………………………........... Digital Toolbox ............................................. Evaluating Teeth to Determine Age ............ Ewe Evaluation ............................................ Genetic Conditions ..................................... Glossary of Sheep Terms ............................ Head and Mouth Soundness ....................... Ram Evaluation ........................................... Selection and Heritability ........................... Structural Correctness ................................ Suffolk Facts …………………………………............ Suffolk History ............................................
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About ............................................................ Contributing to the Foundation................... Director Insights …………………………............... Director Listing ............................................ Donor Recognition ....................................... Grant Opportunities...................................... International Travel Trip................................ Starter Flock Ewe Grant .............................. Scholarship Program ................................... Suffolk Event Sale Credit.............................. Young Producers Travel Grant ………............. Young Producers American Lamb Grant...... Foundation
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LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT DENNIS SORENSEN President, United Suffolk Sheep Association Chebanse, Illinois
Enjoy the 2026 Suffolk Source and all our organizations offer! Thank you for reading the 2026 Suffolk Source, published by the United Suffolk Sheep Association (USSA). It is once again my privilege to serve as President of the USSA.
I’m proud to work alongside eleven other directors who are laser focused on advancing the Suffolk success story. This year, along with member volunteers, directors continue to chair and/or serve on one or more of the following association committees: Marketing and Outreach, Event, Budget, Junior, and Breed Improvement. Similar to a puzzle, all the pieces are needed to complete the picture. The United Suffolk Sheep Association is only one piece of the puzzle. Other pieces include the United Junior Suffolk Sheep Association (UJSSA), the United Suffolk Sheep Foundation, our Executive Secretary “Amanda” and approximately 400 of the greatest members of any organization. The synergy developed from each piece of the puzzle assists the USSA in achieving our mission and vision statements. Thank you for your continued support. I look forward to seeing you at the Suffolk Event June 5-7, on the Boone County Fairgrounds in Lebanon, Indiana, or at one of the many shows and sales this year!
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ASSOCIATION
1940-1942 1943 1945-1949 1951 1953-1954 1955 1956-1957 1958-1967 1968-1969 1970-1972 1973-1974 1975-1976 1978 1979-1982 1983-1984 1985-1987 1988-1990 1990-1991 1991-1992 1993 1994-1996 1997-1998
C.A. Williams, Middleville, MI Phil Hopkins, MI G.B. Vance, Washington Court House, OH Fred Dickes, IN G.B. Vance, Washington Court House, OH Fred Dickes, IN William L. Morrison, VA Pearson L. Linn, Bucyrus, OH John Shonkwiler, Neosho, MO Richard L. Roe, St. Ansgar, IA John Shonkwiler, Neosho, MO Richard L. Roe, St. Ansgar, IA Charles W. Hunter, Blanco, TX Darrell Anderson, Windham, MN Robert Hall Jr., Lexington, KY Tim Hall, Dalmatia, PA William Hoppes, Tiffin, OH John Sponaugle, Grottoes, VA DuWayne Swenson, Dawson, MN Donna Ostermeyer, Greenfield, IN Tom Burke, Platte City, MO David Bogue, Beresford, SD S.P. Nielsen, Nephi, UT Ralph Brough, Nephi, UT S.P. Nielsen, Nephi, UT James Laidlaw, Muldoon, ID R.W. Winn, Nephi, UT Walter P. Hubbard, Monroe, OR Fred Laidlaw, Carey, ID Lawson Howland Morris Powell, Craig, CO Allan Jenkins, Newton, UT J. Alden Olsen, Spanish Fork, UT Dwight Stone, Medicine Lodge, KS Joe Holbrook, Soda Springs, ID Robert Paasch, Chicago Park, CA Fred Coble, Winters, CA Fred Laidlaw, Carey, ID
CONTACT
Bill Hurst Bill Hurst Ruth Day Ruth Day Ruth Day/Betty Biellier
Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Kathy Krafka Kathy Krafka C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson Allan Jenkins Veneal Jenkins Veneal Jenkins Veneal Jenkins Veneal Jenkins Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson David Vanheuvelen David Vanheuvelen David Vanheuvelen Dave Koostra Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts
amanda@suffolks.org P.O. Box 121 Holland, IA 50642 office: 641.684.5291 fax: 734.335.7646 Email: info@suffolks.org website: suffolks.org AMANDA EVERTS Executive Secretary
1929 1932 1933 1938 1950 1956 1957 1958 1960 1962 1965 1967 1968 1976 1978 1980 1982 1985 1987 1990 1995 1998
Merle Stadeli, Silverton, OR Hal Yeager, Fort Collins, CO Roger Sanders, Mullins, TX Jim Caras, Spanish Fork, UT Craig Van Arkel, Grinnell, IA John Eagle, Applegate, OR Remained President Through Merger
1999-2000 2001-2002 2003-2004 2005-2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012-2014 2015 2016-2017 2018-2019 2020-2022 2023-2024 2025-2026
John Eagle, Applegate, OR Farrell Wankier, Salt Lake City, UT Bob Wagner, Nunn, CO Bill MacCauley, Atglen, PA Jim Heggemeier, Platte City, MO Bob Wagner, Nunn, CO Tom Burke, Platte City, MO Bob Wagner, Nunn, CO Bill MacCauley, Atglen, PA Rob Zelinsky, Brookings, SD DIane Russell, Eaton, IN Paul Skartvedt, Radcliffe, IA Matt Beals, Kirwin, KS Jeremy Geske, New Prague, MN Greg Ahart, Sacramento, CA Dennis Sorensen, IL
Visit
SUFFOLKS.ORG to learn more about USSA and the association’s many programs and services for youth an adults
All rights reserved. Use of information from the Suffolk Source is prohibited unless permission is granted by the United Suffolk Sheep Association.
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DISTRICTS USSA
FEES & SERVICES
MEMBERSHIP DUES (Effective 1/1/26) New Membership | $50/year Paid prior to March 1 | $75/year Paid after March 1 | $90/year UJSSA Dues | $25 (Junor, Age 21 and under)
Include name, flock or ranch name, address, city, state, zip and phone number. Juniors include birthday. Membership forms can be found on the association website. Send to USSA, P.O. Box 121, Holland, IA 50642. MEMBER RATES Registration | $10/head
USSA COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS 2026
BUDGET Carol Heupel - Chair Michael Jensen John Scott John Baglien BREED IMPROVEMENT John Baglien - Chair Jay Harris Isaac Swortzel John Scott
EVENT Diane Russell - Chair Kathy Krafka Harkema Victoria Morris Chris Auville Jay Harris Jeremy Geske Isaac Lewis Jamie Sargent Brenda Reau Karen Parsley Bill Fulton JUNIOR Chris Auville - Chair Isaac Lewis Betsy MacCauley Greg Ahart Jay Harris HALL OF FAME Dennis Sorensen - Chair Wayne Skartvedt Greg Ahart Rob Frost
Animal registered within one year of birth. Late Registration | $15/head Animal over one year of birth. Re-Registration* | $35 Transfer of Ownership | $8/head Within Family Transfer | $5/head NON-MEMBER RATES Registration | $25/head, any age Re-Registration* | $50
*A re-registration fee is incurred when a registration paper has been provided from another Suffolk organization for entry into the USSA records. A copy of the original certificate from another other organization must be submitted. Additional fees may apply for multiple generations. RUSH FEES Needed within 72 hours | $25/head Needed in less than 14 days | $15/head OTHER FEES Sire/Breeding Verification Feed | $10/head For registry work submitted that does not have a signature or any approval from the owner of the sire. A fee will be charged if the office initiates the approval from the owner of the sire to register lambs. Duplicate Certificates | $6 Must be the recorded owner Corrected Certificates | $6 Must be the recorded owner Christening | $25 (Naming of ram or ewe) Extended Pedigrees | 5 Generations | $10 For accounts 90 past due, a finance charge of 1% per month will be applied. Payment methods include check, credit card (call the office) or PayPal (link on the USSA website.)
Victoria Morris Michael Jensen Case Rundel Val Slack Jack Blattner Bill Zwyers MARKETING AND OUTREACH Kathy Krafka Harkema - Chair Isaac Swortzel Ron Alves Case Rundel Jamie Sargent Stephen Jarman Val Slack Jack Blattner
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USSA VISION STATEMENT:
USSA mission STATEMENT:
“To define, register, promote and improve the Suffolk breed to provide leadership for the advancement and future of the entire U.S. Sheep Industry.”
“To be the most innovative, value adding, member-driven sheep breed organization for an evolving U.S. Sheep Industry.”
suffolks.org upcoming events | join our mailing list | membership registration | ujssa | show & sale results | much more! VISIT US ONLINE
FOLLOW US
united suffolk sheep association FACEBOOK @UnitedSuffolk Facebook Group - Suffolk Sheep Marketplace
united suffolk sheep foundation
@SuffolkSheepFoundation
@SuffolkSheepFoundation digital suffolk Facebook Group - Digital Suffolk
@UnitedSuffolkSheep INSTAGRAM
united junior suffolk sheep association FACEBOOK @JuniorSuffolk INSTAGRAM @ujssa1 SNAPCHAT @ujssa
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non-member pricing: $200 - per blast ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES e-blast THE USSA WILL CREATE A SPECIALIZED E-BLAST FOR EACH CUSTOMER. member pricing: $100 -single/first blast $50 - resend website banner ads PRICING BELOW IS FOR CAMERA-READY BANNER ADS. THE USSA CAN DESIGN BANNER ADS FOR $50 (MEMBERS). AD SIZE - 400 PX X 110 PX member pricing: $20 - week $40 - month $200 - 6 months $350 - year web packages non-member pricing: $200 - Per Blast member pricing: non-member pricing: $40 - week $80 - month $350 - 6 months $600 - year
$125 - One Month Banner & One E-blast $160 - One Month Banner & Two E-blasts
STATE ASSOCIATIONS
California Suffolk and Hampshire Sheep Breeders Association Cshsba.org Scott Layne, 916-716-0089, sdlayne@sbcglobal.net Illinois Suffolk Breeders’ Association Facebook: IL Suffolk Breeders Association Email: ilsuffolkbreedersassoc@gmail.com President: Ryan Keever - 309-509-1152, ryan.keever@agreliantgenetics.com Secretary/Treasurer: Melissa Sullivan - 309-310-7319, melissa.royerhahn@merck.com Iowa Suffolk Sheep Association President: Barb Stewart - 641-521-7981, barb.stewart56@gmail.com Secretary/Treasurer: Amanda Paul - 515-890-9004, paul_amanda@hotmail.com Facebook: Iowa Suffolk Sheep Association Minnesota Suffolk Sheep Association President/Contact Alissa Voyles, 507-236-5898, a_voyles98@hotmail.com Missouri Suffolk Sheep Association President: Amanda Dobson, 660-232-1433, adobson.rvt@gmail.com Vice President: Jeff Baumann, 816-390-4151, jbaumann@savannahr3.com Secretary/Treasurer: Chris Mallett, 660-216-6898, chris.mallett.16@gmail.com Facebook: Missouri Suffolk Sheep Association
Northeast Suffolk Sheep Association President: Josh Miller, 518-231-8113, millers@midtel.net Treasurer: Janet Hukowicz, 413-204-7248, jhukowic@smith.edu Ohio Suffolk Sheep Association Secretary: Tom Begg, 419-348-3190, tombegg156@gmail.com President: Jodie Hoover, jodielhoover@gmail.com, 724-825-6123 Secretary: Deb Bollinger, dsbollinger@dejazzd.com, 717-808-1582 South Dakota Suffolk Sheep Association President: Jim Van Dyke, vandykeseed@gmail.com, 605-770-1095 Secretary: Ron Wolff, sheep4u@drtel.net, 701-710-0129 Wisconsin Suffolk Sheep Association President: Kevin Slack Secretary/Treasurer: Diana Wilinski - dianawilinski@gmail.com, 608-214-1367 Facebook: Wisconsin Suffolk Sheep Assoc https://sites.google.com/site/wisconsinsuffolkassociation/ Facebook: Ohio Suffolk Sheep Association Pennsylvania Suffolk Sheep Association
USSA BYLAWS
THE USSA BYLAWS CAN BE FOUND AT SUFFOLKS.ORG > ABOUT > DIRECTOR/STAFF
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PRESIDENT VICE PRESIDENT TREASURER ussa board of directors
DENNIS SORENSEN (EXP 2027)
JACK BLATTNER (EXP 2027)
CAROL HEUPEL (EXP 2028)
East District 1291 E 3200 N Chebanse, IL 60992 815-450-8722 dsorensen354@gmail.com
West District 6957 Robinson Rd. Kuna, ID 83634 208-859-0111 blattner.jw@gmail.com
West District 27488 County Road 5 Weldona, CO 80653 970-768-1291 heupelfarms@gmail.com
These are your representatives. You have entrusted them, individually and as a group, the responsibility of operating your Association effectively and efficiently. A task not taken lightly. they not only welcome, but seek your input and opinions. Every thought is a contribution. So please be active in your Association. Members who would like to run for an open USSA District Director position should submit a written intent by August 1st. The intent can be emailed, faxed or mailed to the USSA Office, phone calls are not accepted. Also, please review the eligibility requirement in the USSA Bylaws under Article V. Directors.
WEST DISTRICT
EAST DISTRICT
John Scott - (exp. 2025) 41438 185th Ave. Kilkenny, MN 56052 612-963-4629 John.scott@phblawoffice.com
Michael Jensen - (exp. 2026) 33564 Hwy E 34 Castana, IA 51010 712-420-2181 mdebjensen@gmail.com
Diane Russell - (exp. 2026) 3500 E CR 700 N Eaton, IN 47338 765-749-0287 russellsheepcollc@gmail.com
Chris Auville - (exp. 2025) 501 Knightly Mill Rd. Mt. Sidney, VA 24467 540-820-4927 cjauville@gmail.com
Kathy Krafka Harkema - (exp. 2027) 908 525th Ave. Montezuma, IA 50171 641-891-4381 krafkaharkemasuffolks@gmail.com
John Baglien - (exp. 2026) 790 Cemetery Hill Road SE Jefferson, OR 97352 541-908-4977 jsbaglien@gmail.com
Isaac Swortzel - (exp. 2027) 399 Indian Ridge Road Greenville, VA 24440 540-292-9353 imswortzel@gmail.com
Victoria Morris - (exp. 2028) 6400 Beacon Light Rd. Whitesburg, TN 37891 423-839-4163 victoriamorrisdvm@gmail.com
Jay Harris - (exp. 2026) 2735 Harris Rd. Jacksonville, IL 62650 217-473-7285 jay@joharrissales.com
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SCAN TO LEARN MORE
WHY DIGITAL SUFFOLK? Digital Suffolk is an extensive flock data management software program for USSA and UJSSA members. Used by many of the beef associations, this software not only allows members to process registry work in real-time but also provides a number of tools including a real-time searchable database with the ability to upload photos, track semen sales, record breeding certificates, record performance data, create virtual matings and much more. Digital Suffolk is a true online data entry system that can dramatically reduce the turn-around time for registry work. Electronic registration papers are available as soon as payment is submitted that members can print - and are authenticated by a QR code which directs you to a particular animal’s registry information in real-time. This system replaces the USSA’s old registry. Digital Suffolk allows you to record your entire lamb crop, but only pay for the ones you register. No other sheep breed association offers a state-of-the-art registry software program with these advanced capabilities. With the implementation of Digital Suffolk the USSA continues to be one of the most progressive purebred sheep associations.
TRUE ONLINE DATA ENTRY REAL-TIME SEARCHABLE DATABASE OPTION TO ADD PHOTOS TRACK/RECORD PERFORMANCE DATA SEND FILES TO NSIP CREATE SALE CATALOGS OPTION FOR WHOLE FLOCK REPORTING OPTION OF ELECTRONIC PAPERS INSTANT E-PAPERS AS SOON AS BILL IS PAID BILLING EASE TRACK SEMEN (AI/ET) SALES, PERMISSION ONLINE INSTANT BREEDING CERTIFICATE VIRTUAL MARKETPLACE EXCEL DATA UPLOAD FOR REGISTRY 14
my neighbor leased a ram from me, can i give him or her permission to register lambs? Yes, you can record leases for a particular ram and link it to another Suffolk breeder. You can either record a short time frame of use or you can provide a blanket breeding certificate for a ram(s) that you may manage. Will i be able to do whole flock reporting on the system? Yes, it is hoped that more breeders will use that option to expand our data base and make our data more accurate. What flock management tools are available through digital suffolk? There are numerous tools members can use including: • Whole flock reporting - fees only apply for registered lambs • Record any animal health treatments • Create virtual matings • Generate progeny reports • Create lambing reports • Research pedigrees of any sheep in the database How much of my entered information can be accessed by non- ussa members? Non-members can only search by registration number or generic flock ID search to see an animal’s standard registration information, progeny and NSIP data (for enrolled sheep). Non-members do not have access to complete inventories, status code changes, or member account/ billing information.
CAN I PRINT A PEDIGREE FROM THE SYSTEM MYSELF? Yes, registrations can be printed as needed after payment is made. CAN I STILL REGISTER MY SHEEP THE OLD WAY AND JUST SEND MY INFORMATION TO THE ASSOCIATION? Yes, registration applications can be submitted to the Suffolk Office for processing. Can i see sheep registered to my children or grand children? Yes, when the Suffolk Office creates a login for you be sure to communicate the youth membership related to your flock to link access.
TRY IT OUT BY SCANNING THE QR CODE
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2026
CALENDAR OF EVENTS April 27 USSA Suffolks & Consigned Equipment Online Sale wlivestock.com May 1 Suffolk Event Registration Deadline www.suffolks.org Suffolk Event Junior Show Entry Deadline showman.app National Suffolk Sale Entry Deadline www.suffolks.org UJSSA Director/Intern Application Deadline www.suffolks.org UJSSA Promotional Contest Sign-up Deadline www.suffolks.org May 3 Semen Sale/Suffolk Foundation Fundraiser Sale wlivestock.com May 7 - 9 Ohio Showcase Sale - Greenville, Ohio www.selectls.net, LIVE @breedersworld.com May 18 June 7 Suffolk Event Junior Suffolk Show - Lebanon, Indiana www.suffolks.org June 11 - 14 Midwest Stud Ram Sale - Sedalia, Missouri www.wlivestock.com July 2 - 5 National Junior Suffolk Show in conjunction with All-American Junior Show - Timonium, Maryland www.allamericanjuniorshow.com July 25 Center of the Nation NSIP Sale www.nsip.org August 1 USSA Director - Letter of intent due to run for the USSA Board October 1 Deadline: ussa Election Ballots (postmark date) October 15 UJSSA Virtual Suffolk Lamb Culinary Competition www.suffolks.org October 19 USSA Bred Ewe & Ewe Lamb Online Sale integritylivestocksales.com November 12-19 North American International Livestock Exposition Louisville, Kentucky www.livestockexpo.org December 31 UJSSA Virtual Skill-a-thon Submission Deadline www.suffolks.org
All-American Junior Show Online Semen Sale ~ Benefit Fundraiser (Suffolk Semen Available) www.integritylivestocksales.com May 25 National Junior Suffolk Show Entry Deadline www.allamericanjuniorshow.com May 29 - 30 Nugget All-American Show & Sale - Sparks, Nevada LIVE @wlivestock.com June 5 - 7 The Suffolk Event - Lebanon, Indiana www.suffolks.org June 6 National Suffolk Sale - Lebanon, Indiana www.suffolks.org or wlivestock.com
SCAN TO STAY UP-TO-DATE ON OUR FULL CALENDAR OF EVENTS!
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APRIL 27 USSA Suffolks & Consigned Equipment Online Sale – wlivestock.com MAY 3 Semen Sale/Suffolk Foundation Fundraiser Sale – wlivestock.com OCTOBER 19 USSA Bred Ewe & Ewe Lamb Online Sale – integritylivestocksales.com 2026 ONLINE SALE LISTINGS ASK THE EXPERT’S Q & A! Connect with sheep “experts” and ask them anything! Estate Planning – Hosted by the Suffolk Foundation WATCH FOR THESE UPCOMING WEBINARS!
RAM SALE LISTINGS
May 7 - 9 Ohio Showcase - Greenville, OH selectls.net or breedersworld.com May 29 – May 30 All-American Nugget Sale - Sparks, NV wlivestock.com June 5 - 7 The Suffolk Event/National Suffolk Sale Lebanon, IN suffolks.org & wlivestock.com June 13 - 14 Midwest Stud Ram Sale - Sedalia, MO midwestsale.com & wlivestock.com July 10 - 11 Idaho State Ram Sale - Filer, Idaho idahowoolgrowers.org July 18 Washington State Sheep Producers Moses Lake, WA wssp.org July 25 NSIP Center of the Nation Sale - Spencer, IA nsip.org August 8 Willamette Valley Ram & Ewe Sale - Scio, OR facebook.com/WVRES/
August 9 Jamestown Ram Sale - Jamestown, ND More details - ndsheep.org or ndlwpa@gmail.com August 22 Virginia Ram Test & Sale - Raphine, VA facebook.com/VARamTest/ September 16 - 17 Montana Ram Sale - Miles City, MT mtsheep.org or Facebook September 16 Wyoming Ram Sale - Douglas, WY wyowool.com/ramsale September 16 Hettinger Ram Sale - Hettinger, ND More details - ndsheep.org or ndlwpa@gmail.com September 17 - 18 Newell Ram Sale - Newell, SD Ram Sale Complex newellramsale.com or Facebook: dvauction.com October 2 - 3 The National Ram Sale - Heber City, Utah nationalramsale.com October 8 Utah Ram Sale - Spanish Fork, Utah utahramsale.com or Facebook
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HISTORY OF THE SUFFOLK BREED suffolk resource library T
he Suffolk breed, an original English breed, was the result of crossing Southdown rams on Norfolk Horned ewes. The product of this cross was determined to be a great improvement over either one of the parents. Although the Suffolk was a recognized breed as early as 1810, the flock book was not closed until much later. In 1830, Southdowns were described as large sheep without horns, dark faces and legs, fine bones and long small necks. They were gray to mouse brown on the face and legs. They were low set in front with high shoulders and light forequarters; however, their sides were good, rather broad in the loin and were full in the thigh and twist. Today’s Suffolk derives its meatiness and quality wool from the old original British Southdown. The Norfolk Horned sheep, now rare, were a wild and hardy breed. They were black faced, light, fleeced sheep. Both sexes were horned. The upland regions of Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridge on the southeastern coast of England are very rugged and forage is sparse. It was this dry, cold and windy area in which the Norfolk breed adapted itself to traveling great distances for food, thereby developing a superbly muscular body. It was said at that time of the Norfolk Horned, “their limbs are long and muscular, their bodies are long and their general form betokens activity and strength.” This breed and its crosses were valued highly both by farmers and butchers. However, sheepmen of that day did not like the long legs, flat sides, nor wild nature of the Norfolk Horned. They noted
that Southdowns crossed with Norfolks produced a progeny that reduced most of the criticisms of both breeds. In 1886, the English Suffolk Society was organized to provide registry service and to further develop the use of the breed. Through selection and careful breeding by many great English sheepmen, the Suffolk brought to this country retained the qualities for which they were originally mated. The first Suffolks were brought to this country in 1888 by Mr. G.B. Streeter of Chazy, New York. During a visit to England the previous year, Mr. Streeter had been greatly impressed by Suffolk sheep. These prize breeding animals had belonged to Joseph Smith of Hasketon, and one 21 month old ewe weighed exactly 200 pounds when she came off the ship. A 9-month-old ram weighed 195 pounds and in the spring of 1890, a 7 week old twin weighed 85 pounds. That spring Streeter had a 200% lamb crop. The Suffolk did not make its appearance in the western states until 1919. Three ewes and two rams had been donated by the English Suffolk Sheep Society to the University of Idaho. One of the rams was to be sold at auction at the National Ram Sale in Salt Lake City, Utah. Several leading sheepmen saw these sheep at the sale and they liked what they saw. After several rounds of bidding, the ram was finally sold to Laidlaw and Brockie (developers of the Panama breed) of Muldoon, Idaho, for $500. These men were so impressed with the offspring from their Suffolk ram that they made several importations and were consistent buyers at the National Ram Sale.
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SUFFOLK
he Suffolk sheep is a superior producer of lean meat due to rapid early growth, heavy muscling, and efficient conversion of forage and other feedstuffs. Suffolks are striking in breed character and unrivaled in beauty, having T S THE SUFFOLK SHEEP
DISCRIMINATIONS
heep showing evidence of the following fail to meet the breed standard: lack of muscle development or ability to grow and thrive, dark or black or colored fleece, unmanageable disposition, underdeveloped genitalia, split
jet black, wool-free heads and legs that sharply contrast their clean white fleeces and pink skin. Suffolk genetics are highly- prized by commercial shepherds to improve the weights and carcass quality of their lamb crops, while the Suffolk head is designed to facilitate ease of lambing. All Suffolk sheep should be structurally and reproductively sound. Rams should be robust and masculine, with significant muscling, body volume, and mass as well as ample fertility and libido. Ewes should be feminine yet thickly-muscled, and demonstrate strong capacity for breeding, lambing ease, mothering instinct and milking ability. In both sexes, preference is given to naturally wide-based, deep bodied, easy fleshing animals free of coarseness or over-refinement. As a meat breed, Suffolk breeding rams and ewes should produce fast-growing lambs that yield carcasses with superior composition and conformation, regardless if purebred or commercial crossbreds. While the mature weights of Suffolk sheep may vary considerably, breed character and general proportionality of body should be simlar across the breed. Appropriate frame size and growth curve should be chosen to match the specific commercial production environment and target carcass weight. The USSA exists to define, register, promote, and improve the Suffolk breed for the entire U.S. sheep industry. The commercial industry is diverse in its geography, production systems, products, and markets. Suffolk sheep are useful in a wide variety of commercial applications, from terminal range rams to farm flock ewes, as part of composite breeds, and as market lambs. Suffolks are also exhibited in various show classes, from fitted and slick sheared breeding sheep to club lambs and wether sires and dams. Nonetheless, the breed standard provides a common identity for all Suffolks and breeders. The breed standard serves as the ideal relative to which Suffolk sheep are to be evaluated and improved, in terms of their own phenotype as well as the genetic potential they offer to the industry.
or asymmetrical testicles, upturned vulva, hernia, over or undershot jaw, prolapse or tendency to prolapse (rectal or vaginal), inverted eyelids, weak udder attachments and teat size or placement that impedes nursing. NOTE: The USSA allows for an appendix registry and upgrading to purebred status. When animals reach 15/16th status (purebred) these animals must adhere to the breed standard as well. Sheep that appear to be black faced crossbreds do not meet the Suffolk breed standard. GENETIC AND PERFORMANCE CONSIDERATIONS available to quantify and measure traits. Genetic testing can reduce and eliminate genetic recessives (spider syndrome, dwarfism, and scrapie susceptibility). The technology more accurately evaluates genotype and expands the ability to select breed improving replacements. Superior performing animals within a flock can be additionally identified through on farm data collection. This can include such things as weighing (60, 90 or 120 day weights) and ultrasound scanning for carcass traits (loin eye size and fat depth). Another potential strategy is the use of estimated breeding values (EBVs). This tool allows for measurable genetic comparison, over time, and across flocks with other performance recorded flocks. Either of these selection methods (as well as others yet to be developed) can be used as additional tools to measure rapid growth, leanness, and superior muscling – all of which reinforce the Suffolk as the preferred terminal sire breed. Further, as the industry moves toward more objective carcass evaluation, there will be premiums paid for market animals that meet more demanding carcass expectations. isual or phenotypic selection has been used for centuries in animal breeding. It does address issues of structural correctness, breed type, sex character, and breed aesthetics. Today, there are additional tools and resources V
SUFFOLK JUDGES AID AVAILABLE AT WWW.SUFFOLKS.ORG!
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Breed Standard
Head
Forequarter
The Suffolk neck is of moderate length, set smoothly into and atop the shoulder. The shoulder is deep and obliquely set into the body, being smooth and free of coarseness. The shoulder and forearm show evidence of superior muscling. The rack opens up into a wide, heavily muscled topline that extends and widens as it blends into the loin. The chest is deep and naturally wide showing evidence of vigor. The breast plate is neatly tucked up into the chest floor. Ribs are open, deep and well sprung denoting capacity. The barrel itself should be long, deep, wide and large. The belly and the body should be covered in white wool that is free of dark fiber. Preference is given to a tight uniform, white fleece of medium wool quality. Discriminate against steep or open shoulders, extremely long or short neck, lack of muscle shape, pinched ribs and shallowness. Feet, Legs & Mobility
The Suffolk head is free of wool both at the poll and cheeks, is covered in fine black hair and is moderately long in shape. The otherwise wide skull, broad muzzle and deep jaw denote strength and ability to thrive and forage. The mouth is sound with the incisors meeting flush with the dental pad. A particularly defining breed characteristic is the long, bell- shaped ears that hang below perpendicular and tip slightly forward. Discriminate against short, perpendicular, erect or wool-covered ears or any tendency to colors other than black in the head and ear. Be critical of overly refined or coarse headed sheep lacking in breed and/or sex character. Preference is given to long bodied, strong topped sheep, showing exceptional muscle shape and volume. The Suffolk loin is deep, long and wide. It blends smoothly and strongly into a level top and rump. The body itself should become progressively wider from front to rear. The widest portion of the sheep should be through the center of the stifle when viewed from behind. Natural width should accompany a leg that excels in both depth of twist and volume in both the inner and outer leg. The prominent stifle should be thick, long and deep. The rear flank should be reasonably level with the fore flank. All body parts should blend smoothly and display the characteristics of an animal capable of producing progeny that hang a superior carcass. Discriminate against short, steep, narrow rumps, weak tops, shallow loins, flat muscle, high flanks and lack of overall excellent muscle development. Hindquarter
appealing carcass. Suffolk genetics favor lean rapid early growth that can exceed one pound per day and be market ready as early as 3 to 4 months of age. The standard is a carcass in the 50-to-80-pound weight range that grades Prime to Choice and yield grades 2 (fat cover 0.16 to 0.26). Suffolk market lambs exhibited on foot should have wool free, black heads and legs, exhibit body mass and thickness, show evidence of youthful growth and measure at least 50% body length in the hind saddle (rear rib to pin bones). The feet and legs should be set wide apart on the corners of the body. They are moderate in length and covered in fine black hair from the knee and hock to the ground with no tendency to wooliness. The hooves are jet black also. Legs should be of adequate bone size, neither overly refined nor coarse; joints are strong and smooth on flat bone. Toes are of equal size, point forward with a deep heel and set upon a short pastern. The stride should be long, fluid and sure. The gait is athletic. The sheep travels wide when viewed from behind. Discriminate against weak or coarse joints, cow hocks, sickle hocks, bowed knees or hocks, post legs, wooly legs, widely splayed toes and any obstruction that impedes fluid movement.
MARKET LAMB
A
Suffolk market lamb should exhibit the same distinguishing physical characteristics as described in the Breed Standard for the Suffolk ram and ewe. Today, the most industry important lambs in the U.S. are crossbreds
sired by Suffolk rams that pass along highly heritable carcass and growth traits and contribute valuable hybrid vigor for performance and fitness. The Suffolk market lamb, purebred or crossbred, should be capable of producing a quality, lean,
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GENETIC CONDITIONS
certain conditions, the genotypes of their offspring can be predicted. The following Punnett Squares show the possible offspring genotypes for scrapie resistance, spider lamb syndrome, and dwarfism. Sires and dams each randomly contribute one of the two genes in their own genotype to their offspring. In turn, offspring inherit one gene at random from each of their parents. The combination of these two random genes forms the genotype of the offspring. The four quadrants of the Punnett Square, as shown below, show the range of possible offspring genotype(s), and their relative likelihood, for different matings between parents of known genotype(s).
Breeders face many challenging decisions as they attempt to produce better sheep for themselves and their customers. Animal breeding uses selection and mating decisions to increase desirable genes and decrease or eliminate undesirable ones. Fortunately, the inheritance of some of the most serious genetic defects is relatively predictable. In many cases, these conditions are controlled by only a single gene, and their expression is not influenced by the environment. For recessive conditions, the defect is visible when an individual carries two copies of the gene. Modern genetic testing allows the genotype of parents to be known and, for
SPIDER LAMB SYNDROME
SCRAPIE
DWARFISM
GENETIC ABBREVIATIONS NN – Non-Carrier, free of spider gene
GENETIC ABBREVIATIONS RR – Least susceptible, and all offspring will have at least one “R” gene QR – Least susceptible (but some offspring can inherit the “Q” gene) QQ – Most susceptible if exposed WHAT IS IT - Fatal brain disease affecting the nervous system in sheep and goats. WHY IS IT A CONCERN - Clinical signs are progressive and fatal once they develop. Infected animals may not become ill for years. There is no treatment. MANAGEMENT - Biopsy of the brain or lymphoid tissue. Genetic testing is available to determine an animals susceptibility. Select the least susceptible animals. “RR” breeding stock have been favored because all of their offspring will inherit a copy of the “R” (least susceptible) gene. In 2001, the USDA created National Scrapie Eradication Program in efforts to eradicate scrapie in the U.S. sheep and goat population. Through this program official USDA Scrapie tags must be in place for sheep sold, exhibited, or slaughtered. USDA Scrapie tags identify where the sheep originated by premise ID and the animal’s individual number.
GENETIC ABBREVIATIONS FF – Free of the dwarf mutation, non-carrier
FD – Carrier – has only one copy of the dwarf mutation. DD – Has two copies of the dwarf mutation and exhibits dwarfism. WHAT IS IT - Animals are very slow growing and may never reach normal size, which is contrary to the rapid early growth and efficient feed conversion reflected in the Suffolk breed standard. WHY IS IT A CONCERN - Animals are very slow growing and may never reach normal size. MANAGEMENT - Genetic testing is available to determine if the animal is a carrier of the dwarf mutation. Breeders should select against the dwarf (D) mutation. For USSA sanctioned events, sheep may not be entered/sold/exhibited if they carry even one copy of the D mutation (2022 Board Decision). Recent research indicates the existence of an additional mutation in the same gene as the original D mutation and which also causes dwarfism, but which appears to delete a portion of the gene containing the site of the D mutation. Since the missing region of the gene is not even detected by most current testing methods, the observed genotype is determined only from the intact gene. Therefore, an animal with one copy of this new mutation, let’s call it “X”, will be called FF if it’s other copy
NS – Carrier of spider gene SS – Exhibits Spider gene
WHAT IS IT - Inherited disorder associated with severe skeletal deformities. Affected animals have long splayed (bent) legs and exhibit twisted spines, flattened ribs and facial defects. WHY IS IT A CONCERN - Lambs have trouble standing and rarely survive beyond 6 months of age. There is no treatment. MANAGEMENT - Genetic testing is available to determine if the sheep is a carrier of the gene. Select resistant animals. This condition was first found in Suffolk sheep in the 1980s. Thanks to genetic selection by Suffolk breeders, this is no longer a commonly seen condition.
of the gene is F (it is actually FX) and DD if the other copy of the gene is D (it is actually DX). Interestingly, there will be no FD animals carrying the X mutation, since both copies of this gene can be detected. The problem is that an FX
animal, which tests FF by current methods, can produce a dwarf when bred to an FD or FX (such an animal will be DX and a dwarf). Fortunately, it appears that the “X” mutation is much rarer that the “D” mutation and a test for it should soon be available .
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COMMON SHEEP DISEASES: RECOGNITION, PREVENTION & MANAGEMENT
INFECTIOUS DISEASES
CASEOUS LYMPHADENITIS (CLA) Chronic bacterial infection causing abscesses in lymph nodes and internal organs. Spreads via contaminated shearing equipment, feed, and direct contact with abscess material. Extremely difficult to eliminate once established. Control through culling affected animals, lancing abscesses in isolation, and sanitizing equipment. A vaccine is available for infected flocks. OVINE PROGRESSIVE PNEUMONIA (OPP) Slow-progressing lentiviral infection of the lungs, joints, udder, and nervous system. Transmitted primarily through colostrum and milk, and prolonged close contact. No treatment or vaccine exists. Control requires regular testing, removal of positives, and heat-treating colostrum. JOHNE’S DISEASE Causes thickening intestinal walls and reducing nutrient absorption. Leads to progressive weight loss and death. Infected animals test negative 60–75% of the time on a single test. No cure. Focus on biosecurity, repeated testing, and protecting lambs from fecal contamination. FOOT ROT / FOOT SCALD Contagious bacterial infection spreading rapidly in wet conditions. Both treatable and curable with commitment. Isolate affected animals, trim hooves, implement foot baths (zinc or copper sulfate), and use antibiotic therapy. Quarantine all new arrivals. SOREMOUTH (ORF) Johne’s Disease - Credit: Ohio State University (u.osu.edu).
Viral disease causing painful scabs around the mouth, nostrils, feet, and udder. Zoonotic (which means humans can contract it) — always wear gloves. Self-limiting, resolving in 2–4 weeks. A live- virus vaccine exists but should only be used in flocks where the disease is already present. ENTEROTOXEMIA Enterotoxemia (“overeating disease”) results from Clostridium overgrowth after sudden diet changes. Frequently fatal but highly preventable with CDT vaccination. Vaccinate ewes 2–4 weeks pre-lambing; lambs at 2 weeks with a booster at 30–60 days.
Soremouth - Credit: Ohio State University (u.osu.edu).
NUTRITIONAL & METABOLIC DISEASES PREGNANCY TOXEMIA (KETOSIS)
Metabolic emergency in late-gestation ewes with multiple lambs from negative energy balance. Over-conditioned and under-conditioned ewes are both at risk. Signs: depression, teeth grinding, laying around more than normal. Treatable only if caught early. Prevent by maintaining Body Condition Score (BCS) 3.0–3.5 through late gestation with adequate energy intake. WHITE MUSCLE DISEASE Selenium and/or Vitamin E deficiency affecting skeletal and cardiac muscle in lambs. Causes stiffness, weakness, and sudden
death. Highly preventable through Selenium/Vitamin E supplementation in the ewe’s late-gestation diet. Regional soil selenium levels should guide programs. POLIOENCEPHALOMALACIA (PEM) Thiamine deficiency causing blindness, head pressing, and star-gazing. Triggered by high-concentrate diets, sulfur toxicity, or sudden feed changes. Injectable thiamine is effective if given early. Prevent with gradual diet transitions.
Polio - Credit: Michigan State - www.canr.msu.edu
25
COMMON SHEEP DISEASES: RECOGNITION, PREVENTION & MANAGEMENT
PARASITIC DISEASES HAEMONCHUS CONTORTUS (BARBER POLE WORM)
The greatest economic parasite in U.S. sheep. Blood-feeding abomasal worm causing anemia, bottle jaw, and death. Requires integrated management: FAMACHA scoring, targeted selective treatment, pasture rotation, and genetic selection. Avoid routine whole-flock deworming to slow resistance. COCCIDIOSIS
Protozoan infection primarily affecting lambs, causing diarrhea and poor growth. Risk increases with overcrowding, wet bedding, and stress. Prevent through sanitation, reduced stocking density, and strategic coccidiostat use during high-risk periods.
Coccidiosis - Credit: www.nadis.org.uk
REPRODUCTIVE DISEASES CHLAMYDIAL ABORTION
One of the most common infectious causes of late-term abortion. Ewes abort in the last 2–3 weeks of gestation. Spreads through infected placental membranes and discharge. Vaccination of ewes before breeding is highly effective. Isolate aborting ewes and clean up birth products immediately. CAMPYLOBACTER ABORTION (VIBRIOSIS)
Produces late-term abortion or weak lambs. Transmitted through contaminated feed, water, or aborted material. Pre-breeding vaccination of ewes significantly reduces losses. Prompt removal of aborted material during lambing is critical. RESPIRATORY DISEASES PNEUMONIA
Chlamydia - Credit: hipra.com/en/animal-health/ knowledge
Caused by a combination of stress, viral infection, and secondary bacteria (Mannheimia, Pasteurella). Poor ventilation, overcrowding, and ammonia buildup are major predisposing factors. Early antibiotic treatment is effective. Keep ammonia below 25 ppm and minimize handling/transport stress.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Vaccination (CDT, Chlamydia, Vibrio) is the most cost-effective prevention tool. Biosecurity—quarantine, closed flock, sanitation— limits disease introduction. Chronic diseases (OPP, Johne’s, CLA) have no cure; focus on testing and culling.
Parasite control requires strategic management to slow resistance. Sound nutrition and body condition monitoring across all production phases directly reduce metabolic and reproductive disease risk. Emergency conditions (marked in red) require immediate veterinary intervention.
*Reference guide only and is not a substitute for veterinary care.
26
COMMON SHEEP DISEASES: RECOGNITION, PREVENTION & MANAGEMENT
QUICK REFERENCE SUMMARY
KEY NOTES
DISEASE
TREATABLE?
VACCINE? PREVENTABLE? EMERGENCY?
INFECTIOUS DISEASES
CASEOUS LYMPHADENITIS (CLA) OVINE PROGRESSIVE PNEUMONIA
CULL, ISOLATE, SHEARING HYGIENE
NO
YES
LIMITED
NO
TEST-AND-CULL, CLOSED FLOCK
NO
NO
LIMITED
NO
BIOSECURITY, TEST-AND-CULL TRIM, FOOT BATH, QUARANTINE, DRY ENVIRONMENT GLOVES, VACCINE IF ENDEMIC
JOHNE’S DISEASE
NO
NO
LIMITED
NO
FOOT ROT / FOOT SCALD
YES
NO
YES
NO
SOREMOUTH (ORF)
SELF-LIMITING
YES (LIVE)
YES
NO
CDT VACCINATION, FEED MGMT
ENTEROTOXEMIA
OFTEN FATAL
YES (CDT)
YES
YES
PARASITIC DISEASES
HAEMONCHUS CONTORTUS
FAMACHA, RESISTANCE MGMT
YES
NO
PARTIAL
SEVERE CASES
SANITATION, REDUCE CROWDING
COCCIDIOSIS
YES
NO
YES
NO
NUTRITIONAL & METABOLIC DISEASES
PREGNANCY TOXEMIA (KETOSIS)
BCS MONITORING, ENERGY MGMT
EARLY ONLY
NO
YES
YES
SE/VIT E SUPPLEMENTATION
WHITE MUSCLE DISEASE
VARIABLE
NO
YES
SUDDEN DEATH
PREGNANCY TOXEMIA (KETOSIS)
BCS MONITORING, ENERGY MGMT
EARLY ONLY
NO
YES
YES
REPRODUCTIVE DISEASES
VACCINATE PRE-BREEDING
CHLAMYDIAL ABORTION
NO
YES
YES
NO
CAMPYLOBACTER ABORTION
VACCINATE PRE-BREEDING
LIMITED
YES
YES
NO
CAT CONTROL, PROTECT FEED
TOXOPLASMOSIS
NO
NO (U.S.)
LIMITED
NO
RESPIRATORY DISEASES
VENTILATION, REDUCE STRESS
PNEUMONIA
YES
LIMITED
PARTIAL
ACUTE CASES
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Glossary ADJUSTED LOIN EYE AREA - Loin eye area adjusted to a constant weight or age for the purpose of comparison.
OF SHEEP TERMS
DWARF GENE – A genetic defect that is characterized by the affected offspring being proportionally reduced in frame size and weight. It is noted as FF (homozygous dominant, free non-carrier), FD (carrier) and DD (homozygous recessive, dwarf). DYSTOCIA - Difficulty in giving birth. EMBRYO TRANSFER - Implantation of embryos or fertilized eggs from a “donor” ewe into a surrogate or “recipient” ewe. ENTROPION - A genetic defect observed in newborn lambs where the eyelid folds inward causing eye irritation. ESTIMATED BREEDING VALUE (EBV) - An estimate of an animal’s genetic merit for a particular trait based on the individual’s performance and the performance of relatives. An EBV becomes more accurate in time as the database accrues more information on related animals across different flocks and environments. ESTRUS - Period of time when the ewe is fertile and receptive to the male. Also known as “heat period”. EWE - Female sheep. EXTERNAL FAT THICKNESS (BACKFAT) - The layer of fat between the hide and muscle over the loin eye between the 12th and 13th rib. EYE MUSCLE DEPTH – The depth of the loin eye muscle measured ultrasonically between the 12th and 13th ribs. Eye muscle depth measures muscle and more muscular caracasses are higher yield carcasses. F1 - Progeny resulting from the mating a purebred ram and a purebred ewe of different breeds. F2 -Progeny resulting from an FI sire and an F1 dam. FAMACHA - Parasite control regiment for controlling and treating Haemonchus Contoritus (barber pole worm). Uses eye color chart to predict level of anemia in the animal.
CONTEMPORARY GROUP – A group of lambs of similar sex and age that have been fed and managed the same way. CREEP - Supplemental feed provided to lambs that are still nursing, typically in an area that only the lambs can access. CROSSBREEDING - Mating of different breeds to take advantage of the strengths of each breed and gain hybrid vigor. CULL – An animal that has reached the end of its productive life and is removed from the breeding flock or sold for harvest. CUTABILITY - The percent of boneless, closely trimmed retail cuts. DAM - Mother of offspring. DATA COLLECTION – Gathering and recording data on traits important to your flock. Data may be submitted for across-flock genetic evaluation through central programs such as NSIP. DNA MARKER – DNA is mapped by finding the combination of single nucleotides that make up the DNA or the genome, a gene or DNA sequence with a known location on a chromosome that is used to identify or track inheritance of nearby genes. DNA SAMPLE – A blood or tissue sample used for DNA testing, the commonly used sampling methods are blood tubes, blood cards and ear tag tissue samples. DOMINANCE - A single copy of a dominant allele typically masks or overrides the expression of a different allele in the same gene pair. DOMINANT TRAIT – An inherited characteristic that is expressed in the appearance of an animal that has one or two copies of a dominant allele in a gene pair. DRESSING PERCENTAGE - Hot carcass weight divided by live weight immediately prior to harvest; the normal dressing percent range for sheep is 44-56%.
hide and internal organs have been removed. CARRIER - A heterozygous animal with one recessive and one dominant allele for a particular gene pair. The expression of the recessive allele is not visually observable due to the effect of the dominant allele. CHROMOSOME - An organized package of DNA (genes) found in the nucleus of the cell. Sheep have 27 pairs of chromosomes. CIDR – “Controlled Internal Drug Release”- an intravaginal progesterone implant used to induce and synchronize estrus in ewes. CLOSED FLOCK - An existing flock that does not introduce any outside animals, often for biosecurity reasons. Outside genetics, if used, are introduced via artificial insemination. CLUB LAMB – A youth oriented, terminal project (4H or FFA) lamb of either sex (typically a wether) that is shown as a market lamb and evaluated based on a combination of body composition (muscle and fat), conformation, and other characteristics. CODON - A specific location on a chromosome that forms a unit of genetic code. For example, the alleles present at Codon 171 determine the level of a sheep’s susceptibility to scrapie. In this case it is described as RR, QR (least susceptible to Scrapie) or QQ (most susceptible to Scrapie) COEFFICIENT OF RELATIONSHIP – A measure of genetic similarity between two individuals, as predicted by pedigree. COLOSTRUM – Antibody-rich first milk that a ewe produces in the first 24 hours after giving birth. The antibodies are most readily absorbed by the lamb in the first 24 hour time frame. COMPOSITE BREED – A new breed formed by crosses between two or more pure breeds, followed by subsequent matings among the crosses to stabilize the composite.
ADJUSTED WEIGHT – Weight that has been adjusted for age, sex, birth type, rearing type, and/or age of dam for the purpose of comparison. ALLELE - One of two or more versions of a particular gene. An individual inherits two alleles for each gene, one from each parent. ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION – The process where semen is placed in a ewe’s uterus in an attempt to achieve pregnancy without a ram present. BANDING - Applying rubber bands to the lamb’s tail for docking or to the scrotum for castrating. BIRTH TYPE – Litter size (single, twin, triplet, etc). BIRTH WEIGHT – Weight of lamb at or very near birth. BODY CONDITION SCORE (BCS) – Scoring system used to describe bodily energy stores (fatness) of breeding animals. In sheep the BCS ranges from 1 to 5, with 1 being extremely thin and 5 being obese. BODY WALL FAT THICKNESS - Total tissue thickness measured between the 12th and 13th ribs, 4.5 inches from the center of the backbone. Used as an additional measure of fatness in a lamb carcass. BREAK JOINT - Determination of lamb carcass age. A break joint is the area of the cannon bone within the front leg that is not ossified. If a carcass has a break joint, it is considered a lamb. BREED IMPROVEMENT – Strategies for improving the genetic and phenotypic quality of a breed and enhancing its acceptance within the sheep industry. BREED CHARACTER – Long- established phenotypic characteristics of a sheep breed, defined by breeders and/or breed associations. CARCASS - The muscle, bone and fat on a lamb carcass once the head,
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