We started raising Dorsets in 1977 when I purchased my first Dorset ewe from Phil Shetterly for $100. Below (Genetic History) is a list of producers we have purchased sheep from over the past 30 years of raising Dorset sheep. We have been committed to improving the Dorset breed trying to keep its integrity, which has been quite a task. We have not been in the spotlight, but have continued to work on the breed. We currently have about 90 Dorset ewes, both registered and commercial. We feel that show sheep should work for the commercial producer as well as perform in the show ring. We lamb in the fall, early spring and late spring. Ewe lambs have lambs by 14 months of age. After weaning, all lambs are dry lot fed, alfalfa hay and some grain. This has really helped with parasite control on the farm. During the cool part of the year the daily gain averages 3/4 of a pound a day.

This is Hawkins 508, one of our favorite ewes out of Birch 5778 ram. She is 7 years old and has had 16 lambs. She is long loined, long bodied, milks real well, is way longer than tall and good natured. She will breed any time of the year. This is what a Dorset ewe ought to be!!!

Note: Productivety is a must for our ewe families.