Dorset Sheep Group
The UMass Dorset Sheep Group was started in the Fall of 2005 by a group of students interested in learning more about working with sheep. It is a student run organization that allows undergraduate and graduate students of all majors the opportunity to manage, care for, and show UMass’ flock of registered Dorset Sheep. Students are also given the opportunity to attend the monthly meetings of the Pioneer Valley Sheep Breeders Association.
We currently have approximately 60 ewes, two breeding rams, and a growing number of spring lambs residing at the Hadley Farm. The group is responsible for hoof care, vaccinations, breeding maintenance, and neonatal care during the spring and fall lambing seasons. In addition to breeding and lambing responsibilities, UMass Dorset Sheep Group members also ultrasound the ewes to ascertain due dates, and to check for pregnancy. Group members also help run the Open House tours of the Hadley Farm that occur on the first Saturday of every month.
Every year the sheep are shorn in the spring with members assisting in the shearing process and skirting the fleeces. We usually have blankets made out of their wool, which the sheep group then sells and raffles off to raise money for the group and the farm. The group is offered as a credited course through the Animal Science department, and allows students the opportunity to develop their ovine management skills.
For more information on the UMass Dorset Sheep Group, please contact:
Alice Newth
413-549-3258
or visit our website:
http://www.umassdorsets.com