Sheep Books & Magazines
Before purchasing sheep, it is advisable to purchase at least one good book on raising sheep, as well as subscribing to some magazines that pertain to your interest. The best books and magazines about sheep in general and farming organically or on grass in particular, as well as fleece production and breeding systems are listed below.
Specifically about sheep:
Storey's Guide to Raising Sheep, by Paula Simmons and Carol EkariusThis book, revised from Paula's popular "Raising Sheep the Modern Way", is even better, if that can be possible! It has more information, many real lifereferences to shepherd's experiences, many tips on how to manage your flockin a more ecological manner, charts, line drawings and photos on every aspectof keeping sheep that you could possibly want, including information on herding dogs and guarding dogs. This book is a "must have" on every shepherd's book shelf! The Sheep Book, by Ron ParkerThis book is set up to follow the ewe's productive year. Filled with valuable information, this is a fascinating read. The photos on hoof trimming are very helpful for new shepherds, as well as the photos of the birthing process! This book is well worth having if you want a second book on sheep.Written by Australia's acknowledged expert in keeping sheep and other live- stock in an organic manner. Pat Coleby's other books on raising cows, goats and horses organically are currently available in the US. This one must be ordered from Australia. Walk Soft in the Fold, by David B. NixonThis book recounts the author's experiences as a boy during WWII in England,learning how to care for sheep from an old time shepherd. You might have to do a bit of searching to find this out of print book, but it's a wonderful read. Disregard the references to a few toxic methods used in those days, and enjoy the wisdoms shared! Sheep!While I have not yet read this magazine about sheep, I have read glowingreports, so I feel compelled to add it to this list. When I read it, I will have a morespecific description.Raising livestock organically or in a grass-based manner:
This book includes a wealth of information on raising sheep and other livestock in an organic and grass-based manner. While written by Canadians for Canadians, it is a must-have no matter where you live!Small-Scale Livestock Farming, by Carol EkariusThe back of the book says it better than I can; "Ekarius's natural, organic approach to livestock management produces healthier animals, reduces feed and health-care costs, and maximizes your profits. Through case studies of successful farmers, nitty-gritty details on every facet of livestock farming, and fascinating insights for working with nature instead of against it, you'll learn to make your farm thrive." What more can be said? If you really want to make a go of your small farm, get this book!The book on why you should feed your ruminants their original diet, and why this benefits them and you. This back-to-nature, healthful method is gaining popularity quickly, and producers cannot keep up with the high demand of grassfed meats. The only newspaper devoted to organic agriculture. It's published monthly, is sometimes rowdy, always informational and thought provoking. You will find every topic of alternative agriculture and livestock keeping mentioned here at one point or another. Call for a free issue of their newspaper, as well as a copy of their catalog, which lists most, if not all, books pertaining to organics, pastured livestock, and even the most alternative topics in agriculture.A monthly newspaper which serves as an information network for grassland farmers sharing the latest in intensive grazing technology and pasture management. While not necessarily organic, this magazine is a valuable tool for those interested in raising livestock on pasture.A quarterly magazine published by the Soil Association in the UK on farming and raising livestock organically.Alternative parasite control:
The Complete Herbal Handbook for Farm and Stable, by Juliette de Baïracli LevyA comprehensive book on treating livestock with benign herbs.Farming in general, with an organic perspective:
The Contrary Farmer, by Gene LogsdonAn excellent, sensible "all around book" on cottage farming. You will find tips on what types of livestock are most practical to raise, what equipment you will find most useful, and eloquent passages on the joys of caring for land and livestock. He describes a "farming year," and how to make the work less like work and more like play. This is a book to keep by the bedside for reading again and again!Micro Eco-Farming: Prospering in Partnership with the Earth, by Barbara Berst AdamsHow to succeed and profit as a farmer on small acreages or backyard lots using examples from real-life farmers.Successful Small-Scale Farming - An Organic Approach, by Karl SchwenkeThe many charts and lists of incredibly useful information in this book make it well worth the price! There is so much valuable information from old-timers and do-it-yourselfers on how to adapt what you have on hand to make do! Information on the best "cash crops," innovative marketing strategies, essential farmstead skills, such as haying, fencing, and managing a woodlot. This is another "must have" on your bookshelf!Fleece production:
Turning Wool into a Cottage Industry, by Paula SimmonsA reader written magazine published quarterly, with valuable information on shepherding, spinning and weaving. They also sponsor the annual Black Sheep Gathering, held every June in Eugene, Oregon.Breeding systems:
ChristmanSpecifically about Soay sheep:
Soay sheep are an Ancestor of our Breed of Preference
