The purpose of this MSBA workshop is to teach sheep owners and aspiring commercial shearers to properly shear sheep using electric, hand-held shearing machines. Blade shearing will NOT be taught. Participants will learn:
Each participant will receive the ASI Sheep Shearing Manual, an instructional DVD, and assorted wool literature. Shearing equipment will be provided. It is suggested to wear sturdy shoes, light-duty gloves, durable pants, and a durable long-sleeve shirt. Overalls and bib-overalls encouraged. Lunch is NOT provided. Please bring water and/or sports drinks to stay hydrated.
Shearing school is open to anyone wanting to learn commercial sheep shearing techniques and who is physically and mentally capable. (It is encouraged to have seen professional shearing in action prior to registering, so as to know the demands of commercial shearing techniques.) Fifteen participants will be selected from applications, in order to optimize the instructor-to-learner ratio. Due to overwhelming past response, applications will be prioritized based on the list below, in descending order:
REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 1, 2022. See http://marylandsheepbreeders.org/activities/maryland-shearing-school/ for details and registration information.