Sheep Industry News February 2025

Michigan Hires New Executive Director

E laine Palm of West Branch, Mich., was recently hired as the Michigan Sheep Producers Association new executive direc tor. Palm replaces Samantha Bos, who concluded her duties with the organization in January. Bos led the organization for four years. Palm works alongside her parents – Jim and Sherrie Bristol – on their northern Michigan sheep farm. She purchased her first farm in 2015 to build a second-generation business, adding value to the flock through sales of meat, raw wool and superior genetics. She grew up as an active 4-H, FFA and MSPA youth member and holds a degree from Michigan State University in ag communications. She has an employment history of working with non-profits. “The strength of this organization is in its people, and we have incredible people and partnerships,” Palm said. “I look forward to building strong relationships and communicating with current and prospective members.” MSPA President John Schut applauded Palm’s skills and long term commitment to the organization. “Elaine brings an extensive history of sheep and agricultural experience to the position, and we are excited to have her serve the organization,” he said. “It is a great time to be involved in the indus try and working with professionals such as her.” Palm praised her predecessors for building a strong foundation of programs including MSPA’s Shepherds Symposium, summer pic nic, a blossoming online sheep and equipment auction, quarterly webinars and newsletters, and frequent email blasts focused on training, event updates, and useful industry news and information. She credits previous leadership within the organization for encour T he American Dorper Sheep Breeders’ Society has announced its two nationally sponsored shows and sales. The Mid America Show & Sale will be held April 10-12, in Duncan, Okla., while the Southern States Show & Sale will be June 26-28, in Cookeville, Tenn. Located at the Stephenville County Fairgrounds, the Mid-Amer ica Show and Sale will showcase more than 250 Dorpers and White Dorpers. The event will kick off with a junior show on April 10 and an annual meeting of the American Dorper Sheep Breeders’ Society. Single Dorpers and White Dorpers will show on Friday morning with pens of two ewes to follow. South African Philip Strauss will sort the sheep. There will be competitions throughout the day to keep the youth engaged. A skill-a-thon, sales pitch, judging contest and production contest will cap off the youth events. Friday evening will include an Oklahoma-style BBQ with a live band.

aging her toward achieving goals and she is eager for the opportu nity to fulfill the same role for producers of all ages. “I’m looking forward to taking the baton and keep the organiza tion moving forward,” Palm said. “I feel that the timing is right for me, our family and our farm business to step into this role.” Palm and her husband, Rick, have two young children.

ADSBS Announces 2025 Shows

Saturday morning will begin with a consignors meeting, followed by an instructional meeting. Sales guests will be able to view lots during the morning hours. The bidding will begin at 10 a.m. and be broadcast live on CCI. To enter the show and sale, visit Showman.app/#/. If you need assistance, please contact Karla Blackstock at 210-305-2565. Entries will be accepted through March 15 for the Mid-America. Show placings will determine the sale order. For sale order, please visit the association website at DorperSheep.org. The Southern States Show & Sale will be held at the end of June. Make plans now to attend as 150 of the best lots in the United States will be sold. More information will be available soon. The American Dorper Sheep Breeders’ Society is one of the fastest growing sheep breeds in the United States. The South African import is versatile with a high parasite resistance.

16 • Sheep Industry News • sheepusa.org