Sheep Industry News September 2025

The Suffolk Sale of the West What is known as the “Suffolk Sale of the West”, the Idaho State Ram Sale pays tribute to the state’s history and contin ued use of utilizing the Suffolk ram as a premier terminal sire. The Suffolk ram is a staple in the Idaho sheep herd as it adds desirable carcass characteristics, muscle traits, and weight on lambs. The Suffolk breed is historic to Idaho, having made their appearance in the western states in 1919. Three ewe and two rams landed in Moscow, Idaho at the University of Idaho and quickly impressed Idaho sheepman. Today, over 100 years later, it is estimated that over 50% of western range lambs harvested in the United States have some degree of Suffolk influence. The Idaho State Ram Sale for the past 104 years has driven this standard and continues to do so, by fostering previous markets and delving into new ones. “The Idaho State Ram Sale, and any state ram sale, pro vides an unparalleled service to producers by serving as a conduit between buyers and sellers. The sale connects pro ducers of all flocks sizes with market opportunities, network ing, and further expansion,” said Wilder, “Regardless of flock size, buyers and sellers are able to engage in the industry and further their market access by engaging in state ram sales.” July 12, 2025, marked the 104 th year of the Idaho State Ram Sale, and the Idaho Wool Growers would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all the buyers and consignors who con tinue to make this sale possible. The continued support and participation have helped establish the sale as a key event in the sheep industry, promoting excellence and fostering valu able connections.

September 2025 • Sheep Industry News • 17