We caught up with the breeder of the Supreme Champion Breeding Ewe at the 2025 Nebraska State Fair FFA Show. We invite you to read our candid interview with Root Family & Collins Club Lambs below and please continue to check back often for our next edition of “Breeder Spotlight.”
What’s the pedigree of your champion?
Italian Stallion x How High x Crinkle Jr.
What are your long-term goals as a breeder?
To raise a champion market lamb at the Nebraska State Fair & a Texas major.
Was there a moment when you almost gave up? What made you push through?
We contracted Cache Valley Virus in the pregnant ewes and lost 30% of the lamb crop.
Both families had kids showing and we still desired to raise our own champions.
What’s something you’ve changed your mind about over the years?
Raising and developing champions ethically that would compete against competition that may not hold our same values was impossible. We believe you can be rewarded for staying true to our principles.
If you could rebuild your herd/flock from scratch, what would you do differently?
Start with a package of aged ewes from a proven reputable breeder. AI them to one of the top bucks in the industry. Retain daughters and purchase a solid ram lamb.
What trait do you wish you had focused on sooner in your program?
Tall fronted sheep with elevated chest floors.
Is there a breeding decision you’re especially proud of — or one you regret?
Aligning with reputable breeders that have had success for decades doing it the right way. Utilizing and mixing their genetics to raise the sheep we like.
What’s your favorite state fair — and why?
Nebraska State Fair which is also home to our county fair and Aksarben is only 4 miles from our showbarn.
Is there anything you wish you had known when you started breeding?
20 great ewes can generate the same revenue as 80 average ones. This is achieved without all the extra expense and labor.
What’s next — any big goals or projects in the works?
We AI’d half our herd to what we believe are two of the best bucks in the industry. We also retained our first raised ram lamb this year. Excited to see what he and the two others we purchased will produce.
