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All rights reserved. Use of information from The Suffolk Source is prohibited unless permission is granted by the United Suffolk Sheep Association.
2023 SUFFOLK SOURCE
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Digital Suffolk 14 Library 25 Members 54 Resource
Junior Association 93 Foundation 102 Semen Catalog 109
Advertising Opportunities Board of Directors Calendar of Events Contributing to the Foundation Digital Suffolk
.....................................................10 ...................................................................10 ..................................................................22 ..........................................104 ............................................................................14
Office Staff Online Sales
..................................................................................6 ..............................................................................22 ........................................................90 ........................................................7 .....................................................................21 ............................................95 ...................................47 ......................................................................78 .................................................................88 ......................................................................109 ....................................................24 ...................................................................16 ...............................................................20 .........................................................26 .................................................107 ........................................................102, IBC ......................................................44 ...........................................75 .......................................................25 ..........................................................27 ..............................................46 .................................64,65 .............................................................43 .......................................................32 ..........................93 ..............................................................................11 .....................................................................8 ...........................................................................8
Percentage Testimonial Presidents & Secretaries Ram Sale Listings Regional Junior Suffolk Shows Registrations by Member and State Registry Fee List Registry Programs Semen Catalog State Suffolk Associations Strategic Planning Suffolk Ambassador Suffolk Breed Standard Suffolk Ewe Grant Program Suffolk Foundation Suffolk Historical Archive Suffolk Registration Application Suffolk Resource Library Suffolk Webinar Series Summarized Financial Report The Event: Suffolk Weekend 2023 The Ideal Range Ram The Suffolk Terminal Sire United Junior Suffolk Sheep Association USSA Bylaws USSA Committees USSA Districts USSA Membership Benefits
Evaluating a Suffolk's Body Condition Score Evaluating Teeth to Determine Age of Sheep Evaluation of Structural Correctness
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Evaulation of the Suffolk Ewe Evaluation of the Suffolk Ram Fees & Services Foundation Director Spotlight Foundation Programs Futurity Program Futurity Results GAP Testimonials Genetic Conditions Glossary of Sheep Terms Hall of Fame
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Head and Mouth Soundness History of the Suffolk Breed Index Junior Members Letter from the President Maternal Suffolks: Mamas and Milkers Meet Your Board of Directors Meet Your Junior Board of Directors Meet Your Suffolk Ambassador: Wesley Linke Members of the USSA National Junior Suffolk Show National Sheep Improvement Program New Membership Application
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USSA Mission Statement USSA Vision Statement
Executive Secretary amanda@suffolks.org
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“CHANGE IS HARD AT FIRST, MESSY IN THE MIDDLE, AND GORGEOUS AT THE END.” This quote is particularly relevant to the United Suffolk Sheep Association at the moment. There are no shortages of changes we could discuss. One of the first changes worth mentioning is this directory. For years and years, we did the same old thing. It had some advertising and a list of breeders, and it was what it was. Then we changed it. We went with a new designer, had a new look, made some revisions, and added some content. This year we even changed the name to The Suffolk Source. It has continued to grow and improve and is so much more now than ever. Multiple committees worked hard to generate relevant content and contribute to what you will find inside these pages. Drawings and imagery were commissioned, sheep breeders were surveyed and interviewed, and many articles were written. We all owe a debt of gratitude for the volunteer energy and effort that made this happen. Another change that is discussed frequently is Digital Suffolk. Twice in recent history, I’ve had basically the same conversation about the program, and it was related to youth. Change, especially when it touches technology, may tend to scare some more mature folks. But, on the flip side, I’ve heard about both children and grandchildren of members becoming fully engaged in the program when they may have had limited interest before. This is exciting! The next generation of Suffolk breeders have an opportunity to dig into the data management side of the business that was not there previously. And they’re wired for it. So, while some of
Amanda, our friendly secretary, and office staff can get you the answers or information you need. Her job is to provide the very best service to Suffolk breeders around the world. And she is good at it!
you may be apprehensive about clicking around and seeing what you find, it could be a great time to ask someone else in the family to look around and see what they see. We are seeing some opportunities here that we didn’t even know existed. We are constantly looking around and asking questions, and challenging the status quo. We are looking at what needs to change for the future, and we have to. There’s an adage about ‘do what you’ve always done, and you’ll get what you’ve always got’ – and we aren’t in a position for that to be ok anymore. We are passionately committed to growing the breed, improving what we do, listening to our members when we ask questions, responding to them based on what they tell us, and growing into the future. It may not be easy, but anything worth doing seldom is. The USSA is more than just a registry. The energy, passion, and commitment the board and committee members bring to the table every time we meet demonstrates that just like the pages in front of you will as well. Thank you, Greg
United Suffolk Sheep Association P.O. Box 121 ● Holland, IA 50642
OFFICE: 641.684.5291 FAX: 734.335.7646 EMAIL: info@suffolks.org WEBSITE: suffolks.org
YEAR
PRESIDENT
SECRETARY
1940-1942 C.A. Williams, Middleville, Michigan 1943 Phil Hopkins, Michigan 1945-1949 G.B. Vance, Washington Court House, Ohio 1951 Fred Dickes, Indiana
Bill Hurst Bill Hurst Ruth Day Ruth Day
1953-1954 G.B. Vance, Ohio
1955
Fred Dickes, Indiana
1956-1957 William L. Morrison, Virginia 1958-1967 Pearson L. Linn, Bucyrus, Ohio 1968-1969 John Shonkwiler, Neosho, Missouri 1970-1972 Richard L. Roe, St. Ansgar, Iowa
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Ruth Day (-1961), Betty Biellier
Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Betty Biellier Kathy Krafka Kathy Krafka
1973-1974
John Shonkwiler, Neosho, Missouri
1975-1976 Richard L. Roe, St. Ansgar, Iowa
1978
Charles W. Hunter, Blanco, Texas
1979-1982 Darrell Anderson, Windham, Minnesota 1983-1984 Robert Hall Jr., Lexington, Kentucky 1985-1987 Tim Hall, Dalmatia, Pennsylvania 1988-1990 William Hoppes, Tiffin, Ohio 1990-1991 John Sponaugle, Grottoes, Virginia 1991-1992 DuWayne Swenson, Dawson, Minnesota 1994-1996 Tom Burke, Platte City, Missouri 1997-1998 David Bogue, Beresford, South Dakota 1993 Donna Ostermeyer, Greenfield, Indiana
David Vanheuvelen David Vanheuvelen David Vanheuvelen
Dave Kloostra
YEAR
PRESIDENT
SECRETARY Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Amanda Everts Veneal Jenkins Veneal Jenkins Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson Annette Benson SECRETARY C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson C.W. Hodgson Allan Jenkins Veneal Jenkins Veneal Jenkins
1929 1932 1933 1938 1950 1956 1957 1958 1960 1962 1965 1967 1968 1976 1978 1980 1982 1985 1987 1990 1995 1998
S. P. Nielsen, Nephi, Utah Ralph Brough, Nephi, Utah S. P. Nielsen, Nephi, Utah James Laidlaw, Muldoon, Idaho
R. W. Winn, Nephi, Utah
Walter P. Hubbard, Monroe, Oregon
Fred Laidlaw, Carey, Idaho
Lawson Howland
Morris Powell, Craig, Colorado Allan Jenkins, Newton, Utah Fred Coble, Winters, California Fred Laidlaw, Carey, Idaho
J. Alden Olsen, Spanish Fork, Utah Dwight Stone, Medicine Lodge, Kansas Joe Holbrook, Soda Springs, Idaho Robert Paasch, Chicago Park, California Merle Stadeli, Silverton, Oregon Hal Yeager, Fort Collins, Colorado Roger Sanders, Mullin, Texas Jim Caras, Spanish Fork, Utah
Craig Van Arkel, Grinnell, Iowa John Eagle, Applegate, Oregon
(remained President through Merger)
YEAR
PRESIDENT
1999-2000 John Eagle, Applegate, Oregon 2001-2002 Farrell Wankier, Salt Lake City, Utah 2003-2004 Bob Wagner, Nunn, Colorado 2005-2006 Bill MacCauley, Atglen, Pennsylvania
2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
Jim Heggemeier, Platte City, Missouri Bob Wagner, Nunn, Colorado Tom Burke, Platte City, Missouri Bob Wagner, Nunn, Colorado Bill MacCauley, Atglen, Pennsylvania
2012-2014 Rob Zelinsky, Brookings, South Dakota
2015
Diane Russell, Eaton, Indiana
2016-2017 Paul Skartvedt, Radcliffe, Iowa 2018-2019 Matt Beals, Kirwin, Kansas 2020 -2022 Jeremy Geske, New Prague, Minnesota
2023
Greg Ahart, Sacramento, California
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Strategic Planning Jeremy Geske Greg Ahart Suffolk Event
United Junior Suffolk Sheep Association Board of Directors Wesley Linke, Creed Harker, Savannah Bailey, Katie Ford, Allee Hoover, Raesa Zelinsky, Nancy Burton (Junior Coordinator) United Suffolk Sheep Foundation Board of Directors Bill Royer, Brenda Reau, Tom Burke, Wayne Skartvedt, Bill MacCauley, John Peck, Ron
Brenda Reau, Tom Burke, Nichole Hirt, Rob Zelinsky, Dennis Sorensen, Case Rodgers, Jim Van Dyke, Randy Hodges Digital Suffolk Diane Russell, Chair Carol Heupel, Angie Wiegard, Chris Auville, Nancy Burton, Jeremy Geske, Jack Blattner, Wesley Linke Marketing & Outreach Brenda Reau, Chair Carol Heupel, John Scott, Val Slack, Angie Wiegard, Nancy Burton, Patty Brown, Case Rodgers
Breed Improvement Lloyd McCabe, Chair Brenda Reau, Bill
Education Dennis Sorensen & Bill Zwyers, Co-Chairs Diane Russell, Lloyd McCabe, Val Slack, Patty Brown, Joe Emenheiser, Nichole Hirt, Mary Brown, Preston Morris, Bill Fulton, Case Rodgers
Alves, Ken McMillan
Zwyers, John Scott, Joe Emenheiser, Jack Blattner, Bill Fulton Budget Carol Heupel, Chair Jeremy Geske, John Scott
"To define, register, promote and improve the Suffolk breed to provide leadership for the advancement and future of the entire U.S. Sheep Industry."
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"To be the most innovative, value adding, member- driven sheep breed organization for an evolving U.S. Sheep Industry."
UNITED SUFFOLK SHEEP ASSOCIATION Facebook @UnitedSuffolk Facebook Group – Suffolk Sheep Marketplace Instagram @unitedsuffolksheep UNITED JUNIOR SUFFOLK SHEEP ASSOCIATION Facebook @juniorsuffolk Instagram @ujssa1 Snapchat @ujssa
UNITED SUFFOLK SHEEP FOUNDATION Facebook @suffolksheepfoundation Instagram @suffolksheepfoundation DIGITAL SUFFOLK Facebook Group - Digital Suffolk
MEMBERSHIP DUES Membership Dues (effective 1/1/22)
New Membership - $50.00/year Paid prior to March 1 - $50.00/year Paid after March 1 - $65.00/year UJSSA Dues (Junior, age 21 and under) - $15.00
Include name, flock or ranch name, address, city, state, zip and phone number. Juniors include birthday. Membership forms can be found on the association website. Send to USSA, P.O. Box 121, Holland, IA 50642. MEMBER RATES Registration - Animal registered within one year of birth - $6.00/head Late Registrations – animals over 1 year old - $15.00/head Re-Registration* - $35.00
Transfer of Ownership - $10.00/head Within Family Transfer - $3.00/head NON-MEMBER RATES Registration – any age- $25.00/head Re-Registration* – $50
* A re-registration fee is incurred when a registration paper has been provided from another Suffolk organization for entry into the USSA records. A copy of the original certificate from another other organization must be submitted. Additional fees may apply for multiple generations. Rush Fees
UPCOMING EVENTS / JOIN OUR MAILING LIST / MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION REGISTRATION / UJSSA / SHOW + SALE RESULTS / MUCH MORE!
Needed within 72 hours - $25.00/head Needed in less than 14 days - $10.00/head OTHER FEES
*NEW Sire/Breeding Verification Fee - For registry work submitted that does not have a signature or any approval from the owner of the sire. A fee will be charged if the office initiates the approval from the owner of the sire to register lambs. - $10.00 Duplicate Certificates - Must be the recorded owner - $5.00 Corrected Certificates – Must be the recorded owner - $5.00 Credit Card Convenience fee ($1 for transactions=<$35.00 and 3% for transactions > $35.00) will be implemented for payments made via credit card. For accounts 90 past due, a finance charge of 1% per month will be applied. Payment methods include check, credit card (call the office) or PayPal (link on the USSA website). Christening - Naming of Rams or Ewes - $15.00 Extended Pedigrees - 5 Generations - $10.00
E-BLAST The USSA will create a specialized E-blast for each customer. MEMBER PRICING: $100 - Single/First Blast $50 - Resend NON-MEMBER PRICING: $200 - Per Blast Pricing below is for camera-ready banner ads. The USSA can design banner ads for $50 (members) and $75 (non-members). MEMBER PRICING: $20 - week $40 - month $200 - 6 months $350 - year NON-MEMBER PRICING: $40 - week $80 - month $350 - 6 months $600 - year WEBSITE BANNER ADS Ad size - 400 px x 110 px
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You have entrusted to them, individually and as a group, the responsibility of operating your Association effectively and efficiently. A task not taken lightly. They not only welcome, but seek your input and opinions. Every thought is a contribution. So please be active in your Association. Members who would like to run for an open USSA District Director position should submit a written intent by August 1st. The intent to can be emailed, faxed or mailed to the USSA Office, phone calls are not accepted. Also, please review the eligibility requirement in the USSA Bylaws under Article V. Directors.
Greg Ahart President District 1 (exp. 2024) 7 Carvel Place Sacramento, CA 95835 916-716-0089 greg.ahart@superiorfarms.com
WEB PACKAGES MEMBER PRICING:
$125 - 1 Month Banner & 1 E-blast $160 - 1 Month Banner & 2 E-blasts NON-MEMBER PRICING: $200 - Per Blast
SUFFOLK RAMBLER The Suffolk Rambler is a quarterly newsletter mailed to USSA and UJSSA members. Breeders can have their name, flock/farm name, location, phone, email and website listed for $100 per year or prorated at $25 per issue. Contact the USSA Office to be included.
Brenda Reau Vice President District 4 (exp. 2024) 17315 Ida West Rd. Petersburg, MI 49270 734-755-8285 reau@msu.edu
Carol Heupel Treasurer
District 2 (exp. 2023) 27488 County Road 5 Weldona, CO 80653 970-768-1291 heupelfarms@gmail.com
USSA OFFICE Amanda Everts Mailing Address: PO Box 121 Holland, IA 50642
Physical Address: 19191 170th St. Holland, IA 50642 Office: 641-684-5291 Fax: 734-335-7646 info@suffolks.org
United Junior Suffolk Sheep Association Contacts:
Coordinator Nancy Burton W8727 Meadowbrook Rd Argyle, WI 53504 715-584-1093 nburton1093@gmail.com
President Wesley Linke 38919 SD Hwy 34 Wessington Springs, SD 57382 605-770-9626 wlinke20@gmail.com
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USSA BYLAWS
There were no changes to the USSA bylaws in 2022/2023. The USSA bylaws can be found at suffolks.com - about - directors/staff
Lloyd McCabe District 1 (exp. 2025) 7933 Jahn Rd. Dixon, CA 95620 707-592-6725 lmbarmacfarms@gmail.com
Jeremy Geske District 3 (exp. 2023) 31307 171st Ave. New Prague, MN 56071 612-756-1200 jeremy.geske@gmail.com
Jim Van Dyke District 1 (exp. 2023) 38919 SD Hwy 34 Wessington Springs, SD 57382 605-770-1095 vandykeseed@gmail.com
John Scott District 3 (exp. 2025) 41438 185th Ave. Kilkenny, MN 56052 612-963-4629 John.scott@phblawoffice.com
Diane Russell District 2 (exp. 2023)
Dennis Sorensen District 3 (exp. 2024) 1291 E 3200 N Road Chebanse, IL 60992 815-450-8722 dsorensen354@gmail.com
3500 E CR 700 N Eaton, IN 47338 765-749-0287 russellsheepcollc@gmail.com
Bill Fulton District 2 (exp. 2023) 1508 State Rt. 37 Kell, IL 62853 618-367-2364 fulton9504@gmail.com
Bill Zwyers District 4 (exp. 2023) 9050 N 675 W Thorntown, IN 46071 765-490-4260 wez1950@aol.com
* Director vacancy at the time of publishing.
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NOW LIVE!
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Clickable Breeders Map
Comparison of Registry Programs
Previous Registry Program
Digital Suffolk
Registration papers & transfers Keep registrations in-house Free up staff time from data entry Option of reducing Secretary's hours
Digital Suffolk is an extensive flock data management software program for USSA and UJSSA members. Used by many of the beef associations, this software not only allows members to process registry work in real-time but also provides a number of tools including a real-time searchable database with the ability to upload photos, track semen sales, record breeding certificates, record performance data, create virtual matings and much more. Digital Suffolk is a true on-line data entry system that can dramatically reduce the turn-around time for registry work. Electronic registration
papers are available as soon as payment is submitted that members can print – and are authenticated by a QR code which directs you directly to a particular animal’s registry information in real-time.This system replaces the USSA’s old registry system that cost a bit less in annual fees, but Digital Suffolk offers much more to our members. No other sheep breed association offers a state-of-the-art registry software program with these advanced capabilities. With the implementation of Digital Suffolk the USSA continues to be one of the most progressive purebred sheep associations.
True on-line data entry
Real-time searchable database
Option to add photos
Track /record performance data
Send data files to NSIP Create sale catalogs
Option for whole flock reporting Option of electronic papers Instant e-papers as soon as bill is paid Track Semen (AI/ET) sales, permission Online instant breeding certificate Billing ease
Virtual marketplace
Show management software Excel data file uploads for registry
Successful Implementation in Cattle Associations Numerous beef associations such as Limousin, Shorthorn and Gelbvieh just to name a few, have used this software successfully for years. The various platforms were designed to meet each breeds own individual needs in addition to basic registry concepts. As these breeds decide to add more options to their programs, they can be added to give additional tools to the breeders using the system. The migration of pedigrees and performance information leads to all-encompassing details such as a cow’s lifetime calving record, all her progeny and their data, all the growth and scan data as well as breeding values for all those recorded animals. Growth data is likewise available for bulls as well. As the beef industry evolved and the demand for other recorded information such as calving ease, weaning and yearling weights, carcass data, longevity traits, maternal traits and commercial relevancy, programs such as Digital Beef provided a means
for more information to be recorded, evaluated, and shared with breeders and potential customers. Animals were compared to the breed average, easily identifying outstanding individuals for the particular trait desired. A breeder can match individual females within their own herd with that of a bull that compliments the female in terms of traits that need to be increased or balanced. Through the United Suffolk Sheep Association adopting the Digital Beef Software and customizing for sheep, Digital Suffolk allows the Suffolk breed to embark on the same trajectory. The sheep industry has some catching up to do but this is a logical and sound way to begin the process of using new technology to improve the Suffolk breed.
Frequently Asked Questions Can I print a pedigree from the system myself? Yes, registrations can be printed as needed after payment is made. Can I still register my sheep the old way and just send my information to the Association? Yes, registration applications can be submitted to the Suffolk Office for processing. Can I see sheep registered to my children or grandchildren? Yes, when the Suffolk Office creates a login for you be sure to communicate the youth membership related to your flock to link access. My neighbor leased a ram from me, can I give him permission to register lambs? Yes, you can record leases for a particular ram and link it to another Suffolk breeder. You can either record a short time frame of use or you can provide a blanket breeding certificate for a ram(s) that you may manage, for instance your brother or your father. I have no interest in submitting performance data; will I be able to register animals and print registration certificates? No performance data is required to register animals. Do I have to be a member of NSIP (National Sheep Improvement Program) to use this system? No but it will interface with NSIP to pull data forward for breeders using that system. Will performance data/EBVs be printed on the registration certificate? Performance data (weights, adjusted weights, scan measurements and other data) and/or EBVs will not appear on the registration certificate but will be available through the online registration program for viewing. Will I be able to do whole flock reporting on this system? Yes. It is hoped that more breeders will use that option to expand our data base and make our data more accurate. What flock management tools are available through Digital Suffolk? There are numerous tools members can use including: • Enroll whole lamb crop through flock reporting (ability to record all lambs born but not have to pay to register each) • Record any animal health treatments • Create virtual matings • Generate progeny reports • Create lambing reports • Research pedigrees of any sheep in the database How much of my entered information can be accessed by non-USSA members? Non-members can only search by registration number or generic flock ID search to see an animal’s standard registration information, progeny and NSIP data (for enrolled sheep). Non-members do not have access to complete inventories, status code changes, or member account/billing information.
Ability to view and manage your flock. For members who have children or grandchildren, your log-in can be linked with youth profiles to view and manage.
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Animal Detail Screen includes clickable progeny reports, extended pedigree and ownership history.
Manage ram lease and breeding agreements.
Ability to view sheep that have been sold.
Features to create a catalog (pdf) for sheep you currently offer for sale.
Lookup screens are provided throughout the program. No need to find that dreaded binder to find registration numbers!
Digital Suffolk Discussion Group on Facebook! A place to learn about Digital Suffolk's offerings and network with other users! NEW!
Digital Suffolk Zoom Q&A Mark Your Calendar! 3rd Thursday of the Month @ 7:30pm Central Zoom link @ www.suffolks.org
Marketplace available to publicly post animals offered for sale.
The Strategic Planning Committee was established to identify ways to strengthen our association and move towards long-term financial viability. At our planning session, several significant tasks were identified and delegated to our other committees. The goal for this year is to follow up with committee chairs to hold ourselves accountable to completing the tasks agreed upon at our strategic planning session, while keeping one eye on the future. Accomplishments so far include developing a spreadsheet with all the stated goals for each committee, the timeline for tracking progress and a listing of the board member responsible for leading that effort; and regular correspondence between the chair of Strategic Planning and the other committee chairs to monitor progress on each task.
strategic planning
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Digital Suffolk The Digital Suffolk Committee works in cooperation with the executive secretary to aid in the implementation and membership usage of the program. Flock entry procedures and data input, along with flock management tools are explored and explained as opportunities arise (such as through social media and educational gatherings). Committee members act as a resource for USSA members as they use the program, and also as a sounding board for the continuing development of tools the program can offer to the membership. Education Committee This year’s goal of the Education Committee is to create directory and website articles as well as generate future program topics and identify relevant presenters. As illustrated in this year’s directory, the committee has provided the following documents: • Structural Correctness & Evaluation Documents • The Suffolk Ewe: Mommas & Milkers • The Suffolk Range Ram Going forward, the Education Committee will continue to produce educational pieces for the membership.
Breed Improvement The primary goal of the Breed Improvement Committee is to improve the Suffolk breed by sharing the latest research dealing with selection and structural soundness, breed standards, genetics, production data, carcass evaluation, nutrition, health (parasite and disease management), lambing and flock management. The Breed Improvement Committee partnered with the Education Committee on the structural correctness documents included in this year’s directory. Budget Continue to explore ways to raise revenue and financial viability for the Association. Continue to review membership/fee structure etc. Research the idea of being a service organization for other breeds that may want to come through USSA. (working with our Digital Suffolk committee) Marketing & Outreach The Marketing and Outreach Committee is focusing on increasing engagement with the USSA membership and promotion of the Suffolk breed across the sheep industry. A new member benefits flyer
was created that is available in hard copy and is now available as an interactive document on the USSA website where web visitors can click on the various member benefit components. See Page 2 The committee suggested that the directory be renamed to use as a marketing tool as it was thought that the term directory was not indicative of the wealth of information being included in the publication. The committee is currently developing a mentoring program that will recruit USSA members to serve as volunteers to assist other USSA members. The volunteers will be available to provide assistance and support on things like lambing, feeding, health, and genetics. The Event The Event Committee will provide support in development and execution for The Event which is a new program that will be held annually. The Event will provide an opportunity for Suffolk enthusiasts to come together and celebrate the breed with educational programs, sale, junior show, and Hall of Fame recognition.
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National Suffolk Ambassador is an outstanding Junior Suffolk member selected to be a spokesperson for the use of Suffolk sheep, Suffolk breed and its affiliated organizations. The Suffolk Ambassador will be assigned a specific project that supports the Suffolk breed, organization(s) and/or members. The Ambassador may attend local, state, regional or national Suffolk or sheep industry events. The position is a one-year term, held from July to July. Applicants must be a United Junior Suffolk Sheep Association member in good standing between the age of 16 and 21. The application deadline is June 1. Top applicants will be interviewed by a 3-member panel and one winner will be selected. During the interview process applicants should discuss their idea for a project they would like to work on during the year if chosen as the Ambassador. Individuals who have served as the Suffolk Ambassador in the past are allowed to reapply if membership and age requirements are met. WESLEY LINKE 2023 AMBASSADOR WESSINGTON SPRINGS, SOUTH DAKOTA
Suffolk flocks throughout the Midwest, interacting with different members of the Suffolk association, and being able to be involved in some of the different events that the Suffolk association puts on. WHAT ROLE DOES THE SUFFOLK AMBASSADOR PLAY IN THE SUFFOLK ASSOCIATIONS OR THE BREED? I take part in helping promote the breed wherever and whenever I can. You can catch me at some of the different national shows and sales helping promote the breed. I sit in on the monthly USSA board Zoom meetings to help better understand what all takes part in their duties. I really enjoy presenting to non-Suffolk members what we all have to offer. WHAT SUFFOLK BREEDERS HAD THE BIGGEST IMPACT ON YOU (NOT YOUR FLOCK, BUT YOU), AND WHY? There are two significant breeders that have really helped me excel throughout my journey, Jim Van Dyke and Bob Kimm. Bob’s junior program has influenced many youth members throughout the year and I’m lucky enough to be one of them. I’ve been very fortunate with Jim’s hospitality and use of his Suffolk seedstock. Not
BRIEFLY SHARE YOUR BACKGROUND/ INTEREST IN THE SUFFOLK BREED. I’ve been actively involved with Suffolk sheep for almost 10 years. I grew up with a Suffolk flock with strong influences in producing terminal sires for western range flocks. I’ve competed in many different shows, ranging from the local county fair to the highest level
of competition in Louisville at North American International Livestock Exposition. I’ve always had a strong passion for slick shorn Suffolks. AS THE 2022 SUFFOLK AMBASSADOR, SHARE SOME MEMORABLE MOMENTS. Some of my favorite moments within the past year of being Suffolk Ambassador include visiting different
many junior members are able to be a part of some of the top breeders in the industry and I’ve been lucky enough to work with these two. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO YOUTH OR NEW FAMILIES PURCHASING SUFFOLKS? I believe that the Suffolk breed is one of the most versatile breeds out there. There are so many different routes you can take within the Suffolk breed. Another key benefit within the Suffolk organization is that there are so many different opportunities throughout the year to take part in. Some of the key events include, our different shows, our Junior Board of Directors, our webinars we host and so much more! LOOKING TOWARDS THE FUTURE, MAYBE 10 YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT DOES YOUR INVOLVEMENT IN THE SUFFOLK BREED LOOK LIKE? In 10 years, I still plan on being actively involved with the Suffolk breed. Whether it be participating in different committees through the senior board or potentially helping out the Junior board as a coordinator. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LAMB DISH/RECIPE? Lamb Chislic! WHAT IS ONE SHEEP OR SUFFOLK TOPIC YOU’D LIKE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT? More about the history of the Suffolk breed. WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE SUFFOLK MOMENT? Not just one moment, but all of the lifelong friends and memories that have been created. WHAT IS ONE TIP OR TRICK YOU WOULD SHARE WITH OTHER YOUTH OR A NEW FAMILY PURCHASING SUFFOLKS? Find an experienced breeder and act as if they are your mentor. There are so many great people within our breed that are more than willing to answer questions throughout the year.
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April 15 California Ram Sale Bakersfield, CA californiawoolgrowers.org or Facebook April 28 Bakersfield Ram Sale Famosa, CA Contact Joel Shepherd or Joe Olsen or westernstockmansmarket.com May 11-13 Ohio Showcase/Eastern National Suffolk Sale Greenville, OH Selectls.net or breedersworld.com June 1-3 All-American Nugget Sale/Western National
TBA (late July/ early August) Willamette Valley Ram & Ewe Sale Scio, OR facebook.com/WVRES/ August 5 Jamestown Ram Sale Jamestown, ND More details - ndsheep.org or ndlwpa@gmail.com August 26 Virginia Ram Test & Sale Raphine, VA facebook.com/VARamTest/ September 12 Wyoming Ram Sale Douglas, WY wyowool.com/ramsale September 13 Hettinger Ram Sale Hettinger, ND More details - ndsheep.org or ndlwpa@gmail.com Sept 13 & 14 Montana Ram Sale Miles City, MT mtsheep.org or Facebook Sept 14 & 15 Newell Ram Sale Newell SD Ram Sale Complex newellramsale.com or Facebook October 6 & 7 The National Ram Sale Heber City, Utah nationalramsale.com/ October 12 Utah Ram Sale Spanish Fork, Utah utahramsale.com or Facebook
Suffolk Sale Sparks, NV Wlivestock.com June 10 The Event: Suffolk Weekend 2023 Springfield, IL Suffolks.org June 16-17 Midwest Stud Ram Sale Sedalia, MO midwestsale.com & dvauction.com July 7-8 Idaho State Ram Sale Filer, Idaho idahowoolgrowers.org July 15 Washington State Sheep Producers Moses Lake, WA wssp.org July 29 NSIP Center of the Nation Sale Spencer, IA Nsip.org
CALENDAR EVENTS OF
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Monday April 24 Futurity Ewe Lamb Sale wlivestock.com Monday May 1 Suffolk Foundation Semen Fundraiser Auction wlivestock.com
April 24 USSA Suffolk Futurity Ewe Lamb Sale – wlivestock.com April 25 The Event – Sale Entry Deadline -www.suffolks.org May 1 Semen Sale/Suffolk Foundation Fundraiser Sale – wlivestock.com May 11-13 Eastern National Suffolk Sale in conjunction w/Ohio Showcase Sale, Greenville, Ohio – www.selectls.net, LIVE @breedersworld.com May 15 USSA Online Sale – wlivestock.com May 16 USSA Equipment Consignment Sale – wlivestock.com All-American Junior Show Online Semen Sale ~ Benefit Fundraiser (Suffolk Semen Available) – www.integritylivestocksales.com May 25 ENTRY DEADLINE: National Junior Suffolk Show – www.allamericanjuniorshow.com May27 The Event: Junior Show Pre-Entry Deadline (preferred to plan for show, but not required) www.suffolks.org May 31 UJSSA Photo Contest Submission Deadline - www.suffolks.org June 1 Suffolk Ambassador Application Deadline Foundation Scholarships Application Deadline UJSSA Director/Intern Application Deadline www.suffolks.org June 1-3 Western National Suffolk Sale in conjunction with the Nugget All-American Show & Sale, Sparks, Nevada – LIVE @wlivestock.com
June 9-11 The Event: Suffolk Weekend 2023, Springfield, Illinois – www.suffolks.org June 11-17 National Suffolk Sale in conjunction with the Midwest Stud Ram Sale, Sedalia, Missouri – www.midwestsale.com, LIVE @dvauction.com July 24 Suffolk Webinar – Sheep Genetics 101, Dr. Joe Emenheiser – www.suffolks.org June 30 - July 2 National Junior Suffolk Show in conjunction w/ All-American Junior Show, Madison, Wisconsin – www.allamericanjuniorshow.com July 2 Center of the Nation NSIP Sale – www.nsip.org August 1 USSA Director - Letter of intent due to run for the USSA Board September 30 Suffolk Promotional Video Submission Deadline – www suffolks.org October 1 Deadline: Election Ballots (postmark date) October 23 USSA Bred Ewe & Ewe Lamb Online Sale – integritylivestocksales.com November 10-15 North American International Livestock Exposition - Sheep Events, Louisville, Kentucky – www.livestockexpo.org December 5 Rams & Profitability: A Panel Discussion – www.suffolks.org December 31 UJSSA Virtual Skill-a-thon Submission Deadline – www.suffolks.org
Monday May 15 USSA Online Sale wlivestock.com Tuesday May 16 Equipment Consignment Sale wlivestock.com
Monday October 23
Suffolk Bred Ewe & Ewe Lamb Sale integritylivestocksales.com - For more information on how to consign and entry deadlines visit suffolks.org . To view sale consignments, visit site included with sale listing. Sales will be loaded at least one week prior to the sale date. -
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STATE SUFFOLK ASSOCIATIONS
Northeast Suffolk Sheep Association President: Josh Miller 518-231-8113, millers@midtel.net Treasurer: Janet Hukowicz 413-204-7248, jhukowic@smith.edu Ohio Suffolk Sheep Association Facebook: Ohio Suffolk Sheep Association Secretary: Tom Begg 419-348-3190, tombegg@aol.com Pennsylvania Suffolk Sheep Association
California Suffolk and Hampshire Sheep Breeders Association Cshsba.org Scott Layne, 916-716-0089, sdlayne@sbcglobal.net Illinois Suffolk Breeders’ Association Facebook: IL Suffolk Breeders Association Email: ilsuffolkbreedersassoc@gmail.com President: Ryan Keever - 309-509-1152, ryan.keever@agreliantgenetics.com Secretary/treasurer: Kristen Hastings - 630-273-1142, donandkristenhastings@gmail.com Iowa Suffolk Sheep Association Secretary/Treasurer: Teresa Harker - 319.430.4748, Teresa@rek-rah.com Facebook @iowasuffolksheepassociation Minnesota Suffolk Sheep Association President/ contact Jeremy Geske, 612-756-1200, Jeremy.geske@gmail.com Missouri Suffolk Sheep Association Facebook: Missouri Suffolk Sheep Association President: Amanda Dobson, phone: 660-232-1433, email: adobson.rvt@gmail.com Vice President: Jeff Baumann, phone: 816-390-4151, email: jbaumann@savannahr3.com Secretary/Treasurer: Chris Mallett, phone: 660-216-6898, email: chris.mallett.16@gmail.com
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President: Jodie Hoover, jodielhoover@gmail.com, 724-825-6123 Secretary: Deb Bollinger, dsbollinger@dejazzd.com, 717-808-1582 South Dakota Suffolk Sheep Association President: Jim Van Dyke, vandykeseed@gmail.com, 605-770-1095 Secretary: Ron Wolff, sheep4u@drtel.net, 701-710-0129 Wisconsin Suffolk Sheep Association President: Kevin Slack Secretary /Treasurer: Diana Wilinski - dianawilinski@gmail.com, 608-214-1367 Facebook @WisconsinSuffolkSheepAssoc https://sites.google.com/site/wisconsinsuffolkassociation/
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he Suffolk breed, an original English breed, was the result of crossing Southdown rams on Norfolk Horned ewes. The product of this
faced, light fleeced sheep. Both sexes were horned. The upland regions of Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridge on the southeastern coast of England are very rugged and forage is sparse. It was this dry, cold and windy area in which the Norfolk breed adapted itself to traveling great distances for food, thereby developing a superbly muscular body. It was said at that time of the Norfolk Horned, “their limbs are long and muscular, their bodies are long and their general form betokens activity and strength.” This breed and its crosses were valued highly both by farmers and butchers. However, sheepmen of that day did not like the long legs, flat sides, nor wild nature of the Norfolk Horned. They noted that Southdowns crossed with Norfolks produced a progeny that reduced most of the criticisms of both breeds. In 1886, the English Suffolk Society was organized to provide registry service and to further develop the use of
the breed. Through selection and careful breeding by many great English sheepmen, the Suffolk brought to this country retained the qualities for which they were originally mated. The first Suffolks were brought to this
cross was determined to be a great improvement over either one of the parents. Although the Suffolk was a recognized breed as early as 1810, the flock book was not closed until much later. In 1930, Southdowns were described as large sheep without horns, dark faces and legs, fine bones and long small necks. They were gray to mouse brown on the face and legs. They were low set in front with high shoulders and light forequarters; however, their sides were good, rather broad in the loin and were full in the thigh and twist. Today’s Suffolk derives its meatiness and wool quality from the old original British Southdown. The Norfolk Horned sheep, now rare, were a wild and hardy breed. They were black
and two rams had been donated by the English Suffolk Sheep Society to the University of Idaho. One of the rams was to be sold at auction at the National Ram Sale in Salt Lake City, Utah. Several leading sheepmen saw these sheep at the sale and they liked what they saw. After several rounds of bidding, the ram was finally sold to Laidlaw and Brockie (developers of the Panama breed) of Muldoon, Idaho, for $500. These men were so impressed with the offspring from their Suffolk ram that they made several importations and were consistent buyers at the National Ram Sale.
country in 1888 by Mr. G.B. Streeter of Chazy, New York. During a visit to England the previous year, Mr. Streeter had been greatly impressed by Suffolk sheep. These prize breeding animals had belonged to Joseph Smith of Hasketon, and one 21 month old ewe weighed exactly 200 pounds when she came off the ship. A nine month old ram weighed 195 pounds and in the spring of 1890, a seven week old twin weighed 85 pounds. That spring Streeter had a 200% lamb crop. The Suffolk did not make its appearance in the western states until 1919. Three ewes
The Suffolk sheep is a superior producer of lean meat due to rapid early growth, heavy muscling, and efficient conversion of forage and other feedstuffs. Suffolks are striking in breed character and unrivaled in beauty, having jet black, wool-free heads and legs that sharply contrast their clean white fleeces and pink skin. Suffolk genetics are highly-prized by commercial shepherds to improve the weights and carcass quality of their lamb crops, while the Suffolk head is designed to facilitate ease of lambing. All Suffolk sheep should be structurally and reproductively sound. Rams should be robust and masculine, with significant muscling, body volume, and mass as well as ample fertility and libido. Ewes should be feminine yet thickly-muscled, and demonstrate strong capacity for breeding, lambing ease, mothering instinct and milking ability. In both sexes, preference is given to naturally wide-based, deep bodied, easy fleshing animals free of coarseness or over- refinement. As a meat breed, Suffolk breeding rams and ewes should produce fast-growing lambs that yield carcasses with superior composition and conformation, regardless if purebred or commercial crossbreds. While the mature weights of Suffolk sheep may vary considerably, breed character and general proportionality of body should be similar across the breed. Appropriate frame size and growth curve should be chosen to match the specific commercial production environment and target carcass weight. The USSA exists to define, register, promote, and improve the Suffolk breed for the entire U.S. sheep industry. The commercial industry is diverse in its geography, production systems, products, and markets. Suffolk sheep are useful in a wide variety of commercial applications, from terminal range rams to farm flock ewes, as part of composite breeds, and as market lambs. Suffolks are also exhibited in various show classes, from fitted and slick sheared breeding sheep to club lambs and wether sires and dams. Nonetheless, the breed standard provides a common identity for all Suffolks and breeders. The breed standard serves as the ideal relative to which Suffolk sheep are to be evaluated and improved, in terms of their own phenotype as well as the genetic potential they offer to the industry.
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Head The Suffolk head is free of wool both at the poll and cheeks, is covered in fine black hair and is moderately long in shape. The otherwise wide skull, broad muzzle and deep jaw denote strength and ability to thrive and forage. The mouth is sound with the incisors meeting flush with the dental pad. A particularly defining breed characteristic is the long, bell-shaped ears that hang below perpendicular and tip slightly forward. Discriminate against short, perpendicular, erect or wool-covered ears or any tendency to colors other than black in the head and ear. Be critical of overly refined or coarse headed sheep lacking in breed and/or sex character. Forequarter The Suffolk neck is of moderate length, set smoothly into and atop the shoulder. The shoulder is deep and obliquely set into the body, being smooth and free of coarseness. The shoulder and forearm show evidence of superior muscling. The rack opens up into a wide, heavily muscled topline that extends and widens as it blends into the loin. The chest is deep and naturally wide showing evidence of vigor. The breast plate is neatly tucked up into the chest floor. Ribs are open, deep and well sprung denoting capacity. The barrel itself should be long, deep, wide and large. The belly and the body should be covered in white wool that is free of dark fiber. Preference is given to a tight uniform, white fleece of medium wool quality. Discriminate against steep or open shoulders, extremely long or short neck, lack of muscle shape, pinched ribs and shallowness. Hindquarter Preference is given to long bodied, strong topped sheep, showing exceptional muscle shape and volume. The Suffolk loin is deep, long and wide. It blends smoothly and strongly into a level top and rump. The body itself should become progressively wider from front to rear. The widest portion of the sheep should be through the center of the stifle when viewed from behind. Natural width should accompany a leg that excels in both depth of twist and volume in both the inner and outer leg. The prominent stifle should be thick, long and deep. The rear flank should be reasonably level with the fore flank. All body parts should blend smoothly and display the characteristics of an animal capable of producing progeny that hang a superior carcass. Discriminate against short, steep, narrow rumps, weak tops, shallow loins, flat muscle, high flanks and lack of overall excellent muscle development. Feet, Legs and Mobility The feet and legs should be set wide apart on the corners of the body. They are moderate in length and covered in fine black hair from the knee and hock to the ground with no tendency to wooliness. The hooves are jet black also. Legs should be of adequate bone size, neither overly refined nor coarse; joints are strong and smooth on flat bone. Toes are of equal size, point forward with a deep heel and set upon a short pastern. The stride should be long, fluid and sure. The gait is athletic. The sheep travels wide when viewed from behind. Discriminate against weak or coarse joints, cow hocks, sickle hocks, bowed knees or hocks, post legs, wooly legs, widely splayed toes and any obstruction that impedes fluid movement.
Discriminations Sheep showing evidence of the following fail to meet the breed standard: lack of muscle development or ability to grow and thrive, dark or black or colored fleece, unmanageable disposition, underdeveloped genitalia, split or asymmetrical testicles, upturned vulva, hernia, over or undershot jaw, prolapse or tendency to prolapse (rectal or vaginal), inverted eyelids, weak udder attachments and teat size or placement that impedes nursing. NOTE: The USSA allows for an appendix registry and upgrading to purebred status. When animals reach 15/16th status (purebred) these animals must adhere to the breed standard as well. Sheep that appear to be black faced crossbreds do not meet the Suffolk breed standard. Genetic and Performance Considerations Visual or phenotypic selection has been used for centuries in animal breeding. It does address issues of structural correctness, breed type, sex character, and breed aesthetics. Today, there are additional tools and resources available to quantify and measure traits. Genetic testing can reduce and eliminate genetic recessives (spider syndrome, dwarfism, and scrapie susceptibility). The technology more accurately evaluates genotype and expands the ability to select breed improving replacements. Superior performing animals within a flock can be additionally identified through on farm data collection. This can include such things as weighing (60, 90 or 120 day weights) and ultrasound scanning for carcass traits (loin eye size and fat depth). Another potential strategy is the use of estimated breeding values (EBVs). This tool allows for measurable genetic comparison, over time, and across flocks with other performance recorded flocks. Either of these selection methods (as well as others yet to be developed) can be used as additional tools to measure rapid growth, leanness, and superior muscling – all of which reinforce the Suffolk as the preferred terminal sire breed. Further, as the industry moves toward more objective carcass evaluation, there will be premiums paid for market animals that meet more demanding carcass expectations.
WEBINAR SERIES SUFFOLK JULY 24 - SUFFOLK WEBINAR - SHEEP GENETICS 101 Dr. Joe Emenheiser – www.suffolks.org DECEMBER 5 - RAMS & PROFITABILITY: A PANEL DISCUSSION www.suffolks.org
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Breeders face many challenging decisions as they attempt to produce better sheep for themselves and their customers. Animal breeding uses selection and mating decisions to increase desirable genes and decrease or eliminate undesirable ones. In theory, each generation is better than the last. In reality, an offspring inherits half of its genes from each of its parents, but the half of their own genes that each parent contributes is random. Also, many of the most important traits are controlled by many genes simultaneously, and their expression is subject to environmental effects that are not heritable. This is what makes breeding sheep different from mixing colors of paint - and that challenge can be both fun and frustrating. Fortunately, the inheritance of some of the most serious genetic defects is relatively predictable. In many cases, these conditions are controlled by only a single gene, and their expression is not influenced by the environment. For recessive conditions, the defect is visible when an individual carries two copies of the gene. Modern genetic testing allows the genotype of parents to be known and, for certain conditions, the genotypes of their offspring can be predicted. The following Punnett Squares show the possible offspring genotypes for scrapie resistance, spider lamb syndrome, and dwarfism. Sires and dams each randomly contribute one of the two genes in their own genotype to their offspring. In turn, offspring inherit one gene at random from each of their parents. The combination of these two random genes forms the genotype of the offspring. The four quadrants of the Punnett Square show the range of possible offspring genotype(s), and their relative likelihood, for different matings between parents of known genotype(s).
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