Sheep Industry Research Calls Producers to Join Fertility Survey

By Blake Jackson

Researchers in Pennsylvania are seeking assistance from sheep producers as part of a study focused on improving flock fertility and productivity.

The project, led by Dr. Camilla Hughes and a team of collaborators, aims to gather information from sheep operations across the state through a producer survey.

Improving productivity has been identified by the American Sheep Industry as a key priority for strengthening the U.S. lamb sector. Because reproductive performance plays a major role in the success and profitability of sheep farms, researchers are working to better understand the factors that influence fertility in breeding flocks.

The study will examine how reproductive management practices and stress experienced during pregnancy may affect not only pregnant ewes but also the long-term reproductive potential of their female offspring.

Researchers note that all the eggs a ewe lamb will produce during her lifetime are formed before birth, making prenatal conditions an important area of investigation.

By collecting information from producers, the research team hopes to identify common management approaches and environmental stressors that may influence reproductive outcomes under Pennsylvania farming conditions.

The findings will be used to develop practical, research-based recommendations and educational materials designed to improve flock fertility, ewe longevity, and overall farm productivity.

The anonymous survey requires approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete. As an added incentive, five participants will be randomly selected to receive Amazon gift cards.

The project is funded by the Center for Poultry and Livestock Excellence and includes collaborators Dr. Claire Stenhouse, Extension Associate Austin Brown, and graduate student Sullivan Haine.

Pennsylvania sheep producers are encouraged to participate by completing the survey before June 20, 2026.

Photo Credit: istock-heebyj