
Romneys for Young
Shepherds
Many
young people will find Romneys to be an ideal breed for
showing and for establishing a purebred flock. Because Romneys are of
quiet temperament and readily bond to a youth who spends time with them,
they are easily trained for the show ring.
Romney fleeces
offer youth a second opportunity to participate in fairs or shows because
they often place very high in shows and frequently
sell to handspinners directly from shows. Since Romney wool is one of
the
easiest to spin by hand, many younger shepherds learn to spin and may
participate in spinning contests. Some create garments from their Romney
wool and participate in lead line classes or make-it-yourself-with-wool
events.
Many
younger shepherds are increasingly turning to Romneys when
selecting a breed to raise for project lambs. With some grain and good
management, the lambs will reach an ideal 110-to-120 pound market weight
in four-to-six months. Excellent market lambs can also be produced by
crossing with any traditional meat breed.
Another consideration
for young people is raising Romneys for sale as breeding stock. The
breed's expanding popularity provides opportunities
to sell to other youth or adults.
Whether youth choose
Romneys for market lambs or breeding, the animals can grow to be fine
sheep that will be a credit to the breed and show off a young person's
ability as a shepherd.
All membership questions
and Association business should be sent to the ARBA Secretary, Jean Kamenicky,
at secretary@americanromney.org.
This includes any comments on this web site or suggestions for content.
Copyright
© 2000-2009 The American Romney Breeders Association,
Inc.
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