UW Sheep Program Launches Sheep Innovators Exchange to New Zealand

The University of Wyoming Sheep Program, in partnership with the Wyoming Wool Initiative, Wyoming Business Council and the UW Global Engagement Office, recently created a program titled "Sheep Innovators Exchange: Wyoming to New Zealand."

The international program gives Wyoming sheep producers and industry entrepreneurs a chance to gain fresh insights by engaging with global peers who face similar challenges. Participants in the Sheep Innovators Exchange will travel to New Zealand Saturday-Friday, July 12-18, to explore the country's renowned sheep industry.

Over five days, participants will tour essential industry sites, such as genetic improvement facilities and value-added lamb and wool marketing operations, in Christchurch and South Island. Leadership summits are included to drive innovation and strengthen Wyoming's sheep industry.

The program primarily targets young sheep ranchers ages 25-40, but it also is open to other sheep and wool industry professionals. If selected, applicants must purchase airfare and provide travel confirmation to secure spots in the program.

Applications are open through Thursday, Jan. 2. To apply, visit www.bit.ly/4gF2Lm2.

The program is available to eight Wyoming sheep ranchers and sheep industry professionals. Other criteria: Participants must be Wyoming residents ages 25-40 with a professional interest in sheep and wool production; regional applicants may be considered if space allows; and, except for personal airfare, the Wyoming Wool Initiative will cover additional costs, such as lodging, transportation and food expenses associated with the program.

"Sometimes, gaining a fresh perspective on challenges and opportunities requires connecting with people who face similar circumstances in other parts of the world," says Whit Stewart, UW Extension sheep specialist and an associate professor of animal science. "This program is designed to create a dynamic exchange between sheep ranchers in Wyoming and New Zealand, a country recognized globally for its leadership in sheep production, innovative practices and forward-thinking marketing strategies. Through structured tours, hands-on learning and leadership summits, we aim to foster new ideas and strengthen the future of Wyoming's sheep industry while building bridges with fellow sheep producers abroad."

Stewart highlights the importance of global interaction and says, "Collaborating and interacting with sheep scientists, extension educators and producers abroad has been incredibly valuable to me, especially during challenging times over the past five years."

"I believe the next generation of our industry needs similar opportunities to grow beyond the ranch," he adds. "The Sheep Innovators Exchange will create a platform for Wyoming and New Zealand producers to connect, share ideas and embrace new ways of thinking in sheep production and marketing."

Kate Harlan, co-chair of the Sheep Innovators Exchange, underscores the need to engage young producers.

"It is important to focus on young producers and industry members, as they will be taking the reins and guiding the industry forward," Harlan says. "As the world continues to become more globally connected every day, it is important for us to use that to our advantage and stay connected globally as well."

Harlan believes this program will influence both participants and the broader industry.

"The opportunity to witness different production systems allows producers to become better," she adds. "There is always a takeaway wherever one goes, and the chance to bring those ideas home will help strengthen not only each individual operation but the industry as a whole."

The UW Sheep Program is grateful to the Wyoming Business Council and UW's Global Engagement Office for their generous support in advancing the mission of this initiative. While these organizations do not directly cover individual participant expenses, their contributions are vital to ensuring the success and impact of the program.

For more details, contact the UW Sheep Program team at [email protected].

About the University of Wyoming College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources

UW's College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources serves students and communities through innovative scholarship, research and outreach. Guided by the land-grant principles of discovery and experiential learning, the college facilitates meaningful educational opportunities in the classroom, laboratory and community.

The college offers degrees in the departments of agricultural and applied economics, animal science, botany, ecosystem science and management, family and consumer sciences, molecular biology, plant sciences, veterinary sciences, and zoology and physiology. The College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources also offers degree programs in agricultural communications, microbiology, and ranch management and agricultural leadership.

For more information, call (307) 766-4133 or visit www.uwyo.edu/uwag.