Pasture Lambing: Insights from Levi Morrow of Rocky Knob Farms

Welcome to the world of sheep farming! Today, we’re diving deep into the practices of pasture lambing, weaning strategies, and targeted marketing for hair sheep, featuring insights from Levi Morrow, a dedicated sheep farmer at Rocky Knob Farms in Southeast Ohio. Join me as we explore how Levi has transformed his operation over the years and the valuable lessons he has learned along the way.

Getting to Know Levi Morrow and Rocky Knob Farms

Levi Morrow, along with his wife, have been operating Rocky Knob Farms for about six years. Initially, Levi grew up on a hobby farm primarily focused on cattle. However, after purchasing a small property with limited pasture, the couple decided to venture into sheep. They started with just three hair sheep and have since expanded to a flock of 500 ewes.

Levi’s journey into sheep farming wasn’t just about livestock; it was about finding a more manageable and profitable way to farm. He reflects on a pivotal moment when his wife faced challenges with a cow in labor while home alone with thier newborn child. This experience led them to recognize the practicality of sheep farming, especially when it came to lambing and overall management.

The Transition to Sheep: From Cattle to Ewes

When Levi and his wife transitioned from cattle to sheep, they started with 100 ewes, which felt manageable for their home operation. Over time, they explored various management strategies to ensure profitability and sustainability. The couple’s dedication to learning and adapting has been key to their success.

As they grew, they sought additional leased land, which enabled them to expand their flock significantly. Today, Levi manages 500 ewes across three different farms, each with its unique setup.

Management Styles: Rotational Grazing and Health Protocols

One of the main management strategies Levi employs is rotational grazing. This method originated as a solution to combat parasites, a common issue in sheep. By understanding the life cycle of parasites, Levi has developed a grazing schedule that maximizes pasture health while minimizing parasite loads.

Initially, he aimed for weekly rotations, but over time, he found that a more nuanced approach was necessary. Depending on the season, he aims for 45 to 60 days of rest for each pasture, adjusting based on grass growth and weather conditions. In the summer, they might rotate every two days, while in the winter, they could extend that to 90 days.

Vaccination and Health Protocols

Levi’s vaccination protocol primarily revolves around CD&T (Clostridium perfringens type C and D and tetanus) for ewes pre-lambing and again at weaning age for lambs. He also monitors for pneumonia, especially during harsh weather conditions. Their approach to health management is practical and efficient, often treating animals in the field to minimize stress.

Lambing on Pasture: A Hands-Off Approach

Levi has embraced pasture lambing, which he describes as an evolution of their management practices. Initially, they lambed in barns but found that moving to pasture reduced the incidence of mismothering. By allowing ewes to lamb in a spacious environment, they have seen improved outcomes, as ewes are less likely to abandon their lambs.

During lambing season, Levi and his wife perform daily checks on the flock, observing from a distance to avoid interfering with the natural bonding process between ewes and their lambs. This hands-off approach has proven effective, enabling most ewes to care for their lambs without much intervention.

Handling Mismothering and Orphan Lambs

While mismothering can occur, Levi has found that it is often a result of human interference. If a lamb appears orphaned, he typically assesses the situation before deciding to intervene. If the lamb is truly orphaned, they may bring it home, but success rates for bottle-fed lambs have been mixed. Instead, they often sell orphan lambs to families looking for bottle babies, providing a nurturing environment for those young animals.

Weaning Strategies: Balancing Stress and Nutrition

Weaning is another crucial moment in sheep farming. Levi typically schedules weaning for early August, around 60-90 days after lambing. During this time, he administers CD&T to the lambs and begins to identify potential ram lambs for breeding or sale.

To mitigate stress during weaning, the lambs are provided with good nutrition, which is essential for their health and growth. Levi emphasizes the importance of a gradual introduction to feed, ensuring that they adapt well to the changes in their diet.

Market Strategies: Targeting the Right Audience

Levi's approach to marketing his lambs is strategic. He recognizes that selling lambs at the right time can significantly impact profitability. By targeting the ethnic market, he aims for lamb weights between 60 to 80 pounds, which are preferred by consumers.

Levi’s marketing strategy includes timing sales to coincide with holidays, maximizing their profitability. He reflects on the importance of understanding market demands and adjusting their practices to meet those needs.

Lessons Learned: Reflections on Farming

Throughout his journey, Levi has learned valuable lessons about resilience, adaptability, and the importance of community. He emphasizes that farming is not just about producing sheep but also about serving the greater good and supporting fellow farmers. His faith plays a significant role in guiding his decisions and maintaining perspective during challenging times.

Levi’s journey is a source of inspiration for anyone considering entering the realm of sheep farming or looking to enhance their current operations. His unwavering dedication to learning, adapting, and fostering support within the community embodies the essence of modern agriculture.

Conclusion: The Future of Rocky Knob Farms

As Levi and his family continue to grow and evolve their sheep farming practices, they remain dedicated to sharing their knowledge with others. Whether through social media, local events, or community outreach, their passion for sheep farming shines through.

For more insights into Levi’s journey and to connect with Rocky Knob Farms, be sure to check out their website and follow them on social media. Together, we can continue to learn, grow, and thrive in the world of sheep farming!

Rocky Knob Farms Website

Rocky Knob Farms Facebook

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