Sheep Industry News September 2025

ASI Provides Grants to Shearers

F or the fourth consecutive year, ASI has provided grants totaling $15,000 to developing shearers. Seeing the large and continuing need for more shearers across the U.S. for both large and small sheep operations, the ASI Wool Council created the Developing Shearer & Mentor grant pro gram to incentivize the development of domestic shearers. The 2025 grant ran from January through June and was given to 8 developing shearers who sheared in 18 states from Maryland, to North Dakota, to Kansas, to Oregon. Two of their mentors were also provided grants to compensate for equipment, instruction and jobs given to students. Developing shearers utilized the funds for equipment and supplies includ ing handpieces, combs, cutters, and a wool packer. “This program has been an absolute blessing that has helped me to finish the transition from being a wrangler/wool packer that got to shear at certain jobs, to a full-time shearer that can now operate independently. I would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone involved who made this program possible and I look forward to continuing my career as a full time shearer.”, said grant recipient Katie Pierce.

ASI Developing Shearer Grant recipient, Jared Moser (right).

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Photo: Carol Waller

OCTOBER 8-12, 2025 Sun Valley • Ketchum • Hailey, Idaho

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