Sheep Industry News February 2024

shared their knowledge.” Through the years, members of the Montana Wool Growers As sociation and Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association, as well as Targhee breeders around the country have provided valuable informa tion for the family. “I did not grow up with sheep,” Tracie said. “Brent did grow up with sheep (in Texas), but he came north to Montana. That group of people that I was constantly asking why and how and when, and they always answered.” INDUSTRY INNOVATION Kyle Farms of New York prefers to keep a low profile, but the work of Matt Kyle and his cousin, Nate Hatch, has been so phenomenal through the years that the American sheep industry can’t help but notice the farm’s success. The farm is home to approximately 5,000 ewes in the largest com mercial, indoor sheep operation East of the Mississippi River. Housed in five massive, technologically advanced barns, the operation lambs every other month to ensure a steady supply of lamb year-round for its many customers. Kyle had planned to attend the awards ceremony in Denver, but those plans changed thanks to the 1,600 lambs who were born the

The award recognizes industry contributions from professionals in a field related to sheep production. Lewis is a longtime technical director for the National Sheep Improvement Program who also led genetic and genomic research through his work at the university. Despite retiring from the university this year, he will continue to be involved with the GEMS Project.

“I’d like to thank the several individuals who nominated me for this award,” Lewis told the crowd at the awards lunch. “It was truly unexpected and very humbling. My contribution is entirely because of those individuals and many of you in this room who have given me the opportunity to work in the sheep industry.” Lewis said the work of a handful of sheep researchers in the past paved the way for his efforts. “From that, I’m hoping that their legacy is being passed through me to these young people here in front of you who will be the innova tors of the future,” Lewis said as he motioned toward three Nebraska graduate students who have worked with him on the GEMS Project. “I’m hoping we’ve been able to provide you with the next generation of folks who will lead research in the industry.” Lewis also thanked his wife for her support, mentioning that she was manning the snow shovel back home in his absence. Prager thanked his wife, as well, adding that the couple will have been married for 60 years this fall. He was appreciative of the produc ers who oversaw Center of the Nation Wool when he was hired so many years ago. “They took a chance on me, and it turned out well,” he said. “For all of us sitting in this room, the wool business is truly a business of families. The mission has always been to serve the families that are the

same week. Longtime friend Keith Stumbo accepted the award on the farm’s behalf. “I’m happy to accept this award because Matt and Nate go back a long ways with us,” Stumbo said. “They used to help us with the show flock many years ago when they were in 4-H. “Matt asked me to accept this award for Kyle Farms and to thank ASI and the selection committee for the award. He also wanted to thank the Empire Sheep Producers (New York’s state sheep associa tion) for nominating the farm for this award. In addition, Matt wanted to thank all of the people who helped get the farm put together through the years. They really appreciate this award.” PETER ORWICK CAMPTENDER The Peter Orwick Camptender Award – named in honor of long time ASI Executive Director Peter Orwick – was split between two individuals in 2024. Larry Prager of Center of the Nation Wool shared the award with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Dr. Ron Lewis.

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