Business Management

If you’re thinking about raising sheep commercially, there are many different factors to consider. Use Penn State Extension’s vast collection of resources to help make your farm a profitable one. Topics covered include an introduction to livestock production, using flock records to set goals and make selection decisions, farm biosecurity, pricing meat, marketing your products, and farm finances.

Raising Sheep for Profit

Raising sheep for profit is possible on both small acreage-farms and much larger enterprises. Profitability can be challenging, but with productive sheep and close control of expenses, it is possible to make your operation efficient. Successful marketing of sheep products is also critical for a profitable sheep operation.

Sheep producers have to face another challenge. The average consumption of lamb is declining and people consume it mostly during the spring holidays rather than all year. Producers can do a lot to increase the popularity of lamb. They can market it for various ethnic holidays or there may be existing markets to take advantage of.

Timing is another important factor. The price of lamb is often higher in the spring. Knowing what prices to charge for your meat cuts is dependent on the cost of production. The cost of raising an animal includes the cost of the initial purchase through until the day of slaughter.

Sheep Farm Business and Management

If you want your sheep raising operation to be a successful one, there are several factors to bear in mind. These include safe operation and facilities, nutrition and manure management plans, and risk management. Flock records can be used to set goals and make selection decisions. You should also have a strategy and budget for selecting your next ram. Being prepared for an emergency plays a critical role in a sheep raising business.

Another important aspect to consider is how you’re going to finance your sheep farm. There are many ways to finance your new enterprise, but you will need a written business plan to show the funders how you plan to use funds and make repayments. You can use budgeting to help guide you in making the best financial decisions.

Penn State Extension’s Custom Agricultural Business: A Guide to Get You Started is for farm owners, operators, and producers who want to know more about running a successful livestock business.