Sheep Industry News June 2023

classes revolved around pest management, antibiotics, animal welfare, solar grazing and sheep breeds. More than two dozen instructors come from across the United States. The classes on spinning were the most popular. “You can take knitting classes all over, but spinning classes are hard to come by…especially with nationally renowned instructors,” said Lois Greer, the seminars' co-superintendent. “Some of the classes are extremely popular and fill up fast. It’s like getting Taylor Swift tickets.” In recent years, there have been about 50 classes held, both on and off-site. Education came in other forms, as well. An exhibit on antique shear ing equipment had people staring in awe at the old cutters, handpieces, grinding wheels, sheep bells and more. Sporting an ASI hat and leaning on a shepherd’s crook, this exhibit was prepared by David Greene, a former shearer and one of the festival’s founders. Producers also had the chance to bid on used shearing blades, fitting stands and feed equipment on Sunday afternoon in the sunshine. The tree-lined outdoor arena drew some of its biggest crowds for a sheep dog demonstration as a Border Collie worked a small flock of sheep. Attendees even had the opportunity to see the evolution of clothing styles through Make It With Wool garments from the past 50 years. The Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival is truly a place for produc ers, fiber enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy all sheep have to offer. There's so much to see and do that this article merely scratches the surface. “It’s wonderful what a group of people working together for a com mon goal can accomplish,” said Pamela Jenkins, seminars co-superin tendent.

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