American Sheep Magazine March 2026

ACROSS AMERICA

REGION 3 The Region 3 caucus convened on the last morning of January in Reno. 21 members were present, including four Young Emerging Entrepreneurs (YEEs). We discussed the importance of mentoring YEEs and finding opportunities to do so. We then turned our attention to a review of the pending request for a self-initiated 201 Trade Case, before the United States Trade representative (USTR). The review evolved into a discussion of potential organizational efforts to grow the sheep industry. A robust discussion by several members ensued about past growth initiatives, whether there has been adequate plan ning for growth, and the importance of partnering with the ALB.

REGION 1

REGION 1 Travel to the ASI Convention in Reno was especially chal lenging for Region 1 this year, with severe winter storms and frigid temperatures across the Northeast. Lambing season, feeding schedules, and daily flock responsibil ities didn’t pause, and flight delays, cancellations, and hazardous conditions tested everyone’s plans. Despite it all, most delegates arrived safely and fully represented their producers. Once together, Region 1’s partnership was clear. We held a productive Saturday caucus to share state updates and priorities, and elected Kevin Melvin to a second term as Regional Director reinforcing the value of collaboration across our state associations.

REGION 3

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REGION 2

REGION 2 Region 2’s caucus at the ASI Convention brought multiple states together to share one win and one challenge from home. Two themes rose to the top: persistent parasite pressure and growing resistance to dewormers, and the ongoing challenge of building membership and reaching the next generation. Encouragingly, many states reported strong programming, both in-person and virtual, serving new and established shepherds alike, helping address both issues at once. The region is also seeing continued growth through solar grazing, which keeps solar sites in agricultural production and offers expansion opportunities without the major cost of buying more land. If you missed convention, watch for future emails about a quarterly Zoom and a monthly Region 2 update. Share events/notes: patriciasanville@gmail.com.

REGION 5 Texas Sheep & Goat Raisers Association (Region 5) have been quite busy over the last several months. Topics dominating their recent winter meeting were the Scrapie program and the real probability of screwworm reaching Texas. TSGRA has been meeting with Texas Farm Bureau and the Market Association to discuss possible suggested adjustments in the scrapie program. In Texas, most lambs remain intact but are harvested by 6 to 8 months of age. Members feel strongly that the current requirement for tagging creates a burden for producers and markets with little benefit to Scrapie surveillance. Other activities include a trapping clinic (Spring) and Stockman Ram and Ewe sale (March).

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