We caught up with the breeder of the Grand Champion Breeding Ewe at the 2022 Louisiana State Fair. We invite you to read our candid interview with Heisdorffer Dorsets below and please continue to check back often for our next edition of “Breeder Spotlight.”
TELL US ABOUT THE BREEDING OF YOUR STATE FAIR CHAMPION:
She was Sired by Slap Ya Mama. Slap Ya Mama was purchased from Fisher Club Lambs. He was the Reserve Supreme Champion Ram at 2021 Reno. Her dam’s sire was out of the great Vance
TELL US YOUR FAVORITE PART OF YOUR BARN/MOST INTERESTING OBSTACLE YOU HAD TO WORK AROUND WITH YOUR BARN:
My favorite part of the barn is designing the group housing areas to make it convenient for buyers to pick out their future winners. We’re able to sort the lambs from the ewes to allow plenty of space for the lambs to be viewed
WHAT DOES YOUR TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE?
Along with being a club lamb breeder, I raise a herd of commercial cows, row crop, oversee a 5000 head nursery, and am a business development manager for The Maschhoffs. My typical day includes doing chores, meeting with farmers interested in building hog barns, and tending to the everyday tasks of the family farm.
BEST LAMBING TIP?
Making sure that the ventilation is set up in the lambing barn and group housing areas so there is proper air flow.
HOW LONG DO YOU LEAVE YOUR LAMBS IN JUGS?
Depending on how tight we are on space, anywhere from 36-72 hours. We make sure they are nursing well and have plenty of vigor before being moved to group housing.
THE WORST PART ABOUT RAISING SHEEP IS…
dealing with unexpected mortality during lambing season and wondering what you could have done differently
THE IDEAL SHEEP CUSTOMER TO ME IS:
a customer that believes in our program and becomes a repeat buyer, which creates a lifetime friendship. We appreciate getting feedback and having buyers share their successes with us.
IF I DIDN’T HAVE LIVESTOCK YOU’D FIND ME….
at my kids’ sporting events or riding a Harley
