It's an intermediate level livestock project for young people who have completed the 4-H Market Lamb Project or who have had some prior experience with sheep.  This is a long term project - ewes are productive for several years.  The project is designed to encourage growth of the participant's sheep knowledge and growth of the scope of their sheep project. (A market lamb project may be available to first year participants.)  This program is for youth purchasing their first purebred ewe lamb or ewe.

This project offers a challenging opportunity for young people who are interested in a long term livestock experience.  Along with the daily responsibilities for the ewe's care, participants can look forward to and plan for an expanded project as the ewe reaches breeding age.

Basically the ewe needs a secure place where it can get out of the weather. A 6' x 6' shelter is adequate. The shelter should be well bedded and dry. An attached exercise yard of about 30 square feet is also desirable. Because this is a year round project, your shelter must offer adequate protection from winter weather. A feed storage area is also advisable.

Participants should consider a ewe of one of the breeds common to this area. These breeds are the Cheviot, Cotswold, Dorsets, Hampshire, Montadale, Natural Colored, Shetland, Shropshire, Southdown, Suffolks, Tunis.  Choosing from these breeds insures a wider choice of animals, access to quality breeding rams when your ewe is mature and a variety of classes to participate in at local fairs.  Before purchasing a ewe, you should talk with experienced sheep breeders.  The following 4-H club leaders are willing to counsel you concerning your choice:

Franklin County                            Hampden County                        Hampshire County
Launie York                                  Rocky & Pat Poitras                    Shawn or Clifford Thayer
Shelburne Falls, MA                     Palmer, MA                                  Cummington, MA
(413) 625-2424                             (413) 283-9852                            (413) 634-5528  

The Pioneer Valley Sheep Breeder's Association offers financial support to youth who are purchasing their first purebred ewe.  Interested youth may apply for this support by submitting a completed application form, which is available from your county 4-H office or from the PVSBA.com website, or from PVSBA Members - applications are due by April 15th.

Project members are encouraged to participate in the activities of a 4-H Sheep Club or the Future Farmers of America Chapter, if one exists in their area. All lamb raisers can draw upon the expertise of members of the Pioneer Valley Sheep Breeder's Association.

Project members are encouraged to attend education programs held by the Pioneer Valley Sheep Breeder's Association. These may include: new shepherd clinics, fitting and showmanship clinics, judging clinics and other educational programs. Participants are encourage to show their lamb at local fairs. Showing is a great way to meet other young people and also to learn more about their sheep projects.  Participants are welcome at all 4-H activities.