Sheep and lamb producers across the state joined Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles in Lexington earlier this week to commemorate February as Lamb Month in Kentucky.
In a news release, Quarles highlighted the benefits of sheep as an excellent livestock option for many Kentucky farms, noting that not only is lamb a lean and protein-rich meat, but it also provides milk and fiber, thus adding to the state’s agricultural diversity.
According to Quarles, about 5 million sheep are raised by roughly 80,000 farmers and ranchers across the United States. With more than 12 million acres of agricultural land in Kentucky, the commonwealth is home to 58,000 head of sheep and lamb, ranking it 25th nationally for sheep inventory. Quarles says those 58,000 sheep are spread over more than 4,000 sheep producers who are dedicated to producing high-quality products for consumers.
Quarles indicates the sheep industry in Kentucky adds more than $7 million in revenue to the state’s agriculture receipts. For 2023, market lambs and sheep stayed steady at 14,000 head, with higher numbers of breeding stock in inventory. The market lambs inventory was the second highest level on record for Kentucky. Quarles said with solid markets, an increase in retail demand, growing grazing opportunities in the state, and increased value-added opportunities for wool, this industry is expected to keep growing into the future.
To celebrate Lamb Month, purchase lamb from your local grocery store, specialty shop, farmers’ market, or butcher shop. The Kentucky Sheep and Goat Development Office offers information on its website with tips to cook the lean meat, along with a buyer’s guide for lamb.
