Sheep Industry News January 2022

SheepIndustry NEWS Volume 26, Issue 1 January 2022

A Look Inside 12 Congress Looks to Protect American Producers Congressman August Pfluger (Texas) introduced a bipar tisan bill to require the USDA to delay implementation of the final small ruminant import rule until its impacts on American sheep producers can be fully studied. 16 Valley OakWool Mill Caters to Niche Market Marcail McWilliams knows where wool comes from, of course, but as owner of Valley Oak Wool Mill in Woodland, Calif., she says it's humorous to visit her customers' operations and see the valuable fiber resting on a sheep's back. 14 Wool Excellence Award Honors Keith Padgett Keith Padgett is proud to say he saw an increased awareness of wool quality among sheep producers during his 55 years in the industry. The role he played in building that awareness will be recognized when Padgett receives the Wool Excellence Award.

ON THE COVER:

Valley Oak Wool Mill in Woodland, Calif., serves small-flock producers who cater to a niche market in the American wool industry.

Departments 4 President’s Notes 6 Market Report 9 ASI Member Listing 20 Meet the Exec. Board 22 Obituary 27 Breeders’ Directory 29 Industry Calendar

30 500 Years of Wool in North America

January 2022 • Sheep Industry News • 3