Thread: Colorado Wool Growers Gather in Frisco

http://www.thefencepost.com/article.php?sid=1643&rs=2

Colorado Wool Growers Gather in Frisco



by Becky Talley
Fort Collins, Colo.

Sheep are an extremely diverse animal. From providing meat and clothing to improving the environment by grazing weeds and other undesirable forage, these unique animals make up a very important part of the agriculture industry throughout the nation. And no one knows that better than those who have dedicated their lives to raising sheep and working within the ovine industry.

July 21-23 saw a gathering of some of these hardworking and influential sheep producers in the state of Colorado, members of the Colorado Wool Growers Association (CWGA), come together to discuss issues facing the sheep industry and how to promote the consumption of more lamb and wool products.

During the three day convention held in Frisco, Colo., the Wool Growers covered topics such as predator issues, wildlife management, the state’s agriculture budget, wool production and touched on many disease issues that affect their animals, to name a few.

Discussion of these topics is not only important to the members of the CWGA, but also to anyone involved in the sheep industry in the state, as this industry is so wide reaching and encompassing. According to information given at the convention, CWGA President John Bartmann related that Colorado “feeds more lambs than any state in the nation, is ranked fifth in stock sheep numbers, sixth in wool production.�
In other words, the sheep industry provides an important backbone for the success of agriculture and overall economy of Colorado, and the CWGA is dedicated to making sure that continues.

Founded in 1926, the CWGA acts as the premier representative for the lamb and wool industry in the state, and works at both the state and national levels on behalf of the industry. CWGA boasts a membership of around 280 people (including associates), according to CWGA Executive Director Bonnie Kline.

This year’s convention hosted about 180 attendees (members and families) and offered a comprehensive look at the future of the lamb and wool industry.

“A lot of the issues are complex,� related Bartmann.
He said that major issues facing the sheep industry currently are that of labor (illegal immigrants, sheepherders who back out on contracts and shearing crews), the markets, and predator control â€â€

A lot of the legal immigrant sheep workers have been skipping out on their contracts once they get here because the job pays little and requires spending a lot of time alone. With the USA's immigration enforcement
being what it is it is easy to get as much pay doing yardwork.
One move the ranchers have made is switching from bringing in Mexicans to South Americans. I think that the Sheep Ranchers should consider hiring American Indians from sheep raising tribes and working flocks on a partnership basis. The American Indians are used to the required conditions and can understand the long term benefit.