The sheep unit of the Department of Animal Sciences at the Arlington Agricultural Research Station had a very successful showing at the National Polypay Show and Sale in Springfield, Ill. on June 19-20. Todd Taylor, manager of the sheep unit, consigned 3 rams and 6 ewes, which received the “Best Consignment Award” for the highest average placing in the show. The UW-Madison sheep included the Grand Champion Ewe, NSIP Champion Ewe, NSIP Reserve Champion Ewe, and NSIP Reserve Champion Ram.

The National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) provides estimates of genetic value on individual sheep for production traits, and the NSIP awards are presented to sheep in the show with the highest overall estimates of genetic merit. UW-Madison’s high-selling sheep was the 2nd place Spring Ram Lamb that sold for $900. UW-Madison’s Grand Champion Ewe was the high selling ewe of the sale and sold for $600. The 9 sheep consigned by UW-Madison averaged $472 per head.

This is the second time in the last 3 years that the UW-Madison sheep unit has exhibited the National Grand Champion Ewe and the third year in a row that it has exhibited the National NSIP Champion Ewe.