We caught up with the breeder of the Grand Champion Market Lamb at the 2025 California Youth Ag Expo. We invite you to read our candid interview with Burch Livestock & MSK Farms below and please continue to check back often for our next edition of “Breeder Spotlight.”
What’s the pedigree of your champion?
Canseco x Big City
What are your long-term goals as a breeder?
Strive to make the best sheep we know how and work with breeders like Mark and Suzie Kronabusch that believe in and invest in our genetics.
Was there a moment when you almost gave up? What made you push through?
When we found a retained testicle in “Rocket” last December we wanted to throw in the towel…but things happen for a reason.
What’s something you’ve changed your mind about over the years?
How we market our sheep.
If you could rebuild your herd/flock from scratch, what would you do differently?
I’m not sure we would do anything different.
What trait do you wish you had focused on sooner in your program?
Feature
Is there a breeding decision you’re especially proud of — or one you regret?
There have been a handful of flushes over the years that have had great results. Plenty of regrettable decisions. We prove we’re human often.
What’s your favorite state fair — and why?
The Alaska State Fair! Had the privilege of judging twice.
Is there anything you wish you had known when you started breeding?
We wish we would’ve been able to manage for AI and flushing better in the early years. Our program could’ve advanced more rapidly had we made the necessary changes to achieve better conception and retention.
What’s next — any big goals or projects in the works?
We’re happy with the path we’re on!
