What can US sheep farmers learn from New Zealand's success? With Dr Whit Stewart

This week, we’re chatting about the differences between US and NZ sheep production systems with Dr. Whit Stewart, an Associate Professor and Extension Sheep Specialist in the Department of Animal Science at the University of Wyoming.

Whit has spent the last year on a sabbatical in New Zealand, learning and absorbing as much as he can about sheep farming here. Because of this, he has some great insights into the comparisons between systems as well as what we do well, and what we could do better at. 

He and Ferg chat about predator pressure, grazing public land, the structure of the US lamb supply chain, and what it's like farming in a country where golden eagles can take 40% of your lamb crop. Whit also chats about what he’s learnt here in NZ. Our use of tools like FarmIQ, a strong export focus, and top-notch forage management are our strong points, according to Whit. And he also shares what he thinks we could learn from the US in return.

It’s a great conversation with someone who is very passionate about building better sheep businesses, regardless of where he is on the globe! 

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