Sheep Lambing Workshop 

Four Winds Farm will host a full‑day Sheep Lambing Workshop on March 28 in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. This immersive, hands‑on learning experience is designed for both new and experienced shepherds seeking to improve their lambing knowledge, confidence, and on‑farm success. 

The workshop will be led by Carolyn Ihde, Small Ruminant Outreach Specialist with the University of Wisconsin–Madison Extension and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, along with Dr. Kelly Froelich, representing the American Sheep Industry (ASI) Young Entrepreneurs Education (YEE) program. Through their collaboration, participants will have access to possibly the only sheep dystocia training models available to US producers. This specialized simulation tool is used to teach producers how to assist a ewe with a range of lambing complications

Throughout the day, attendees will learn about: 

• Best practices in biosecurity, animal health, and nutrition 
• Essential lambing supplies and barn preparation 
• The phases of lambing and how to recognize when assistance is needed 
• Effective lamb processing techniques 
• Hands‑on practice pulling lambs from a life‑size ewe replica 

Four Winds Farm maintains a well‑managed flock of Cheviot and Tunis sheep and has collaborated with Ihde to plan this workshop to align with the flock’s lambing schedule, creating the possibility for participants to witness real‑time lambing during the event. The farm has also worked closely with Ihde to implement research‑based flock management practices aimed at improving lambing outcomes and overall flock health. 

This engaging workshop provides a supportive environment for learning, questions, and skill‑building—ideal for small-flock owners, aspiring shepherds, youth project leaders, and anyone interested in expanding their sheep-management capabilities.