Manitoba's Annual Sheep Show and Sale is taking place this weekend in Minnedosa. This year's show will feature eight different pure-bred breeds and 107 entries for rams and ewes in different classes from across Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
This event is for producers to show the quality stock they raise, followed by a junior show where the kids show their Showmanship.
"Saturday starting at 1 pm we are having the sale portion of the show where the majority of those animals will be going through the ring," explains Jonathon Nichol, Chair of the MB Sheep Assocation, and organizing committee Chair of this weekend's event.
Nichol farms just outside of Darlingford raising about 200 ewes as a protein option; lambchops, ground lamb, leg of lamb (from the meat of the sheep in its first year).
Nichols says there is a strong demand for lamb in Canada, however Canadian producers raise only about 40% of what Canadians consume. All other lamb meat is imported from Australia and New Zealand. Currently, Manitoba has over 500 sheep producers across the province.
What is new at this year's show in Minnedosa?
The MB Sheep Association is working together with the Manitoba Stockdog Association where they will be hosting their Stockdog Trial finals at this weekend's event.
Something to note is that part of this Sheep Show is a 2-day trade show, and the event is open to the public and free of charge.
Next year, Manitoba will be hosting the National Sheep Show "All Canadian Classic", July 9-12, 2025.
Please listen to more with Jonathon Nichol below.