Wyoming’s Lamb Industry Faces Tough Fight Against Imported Rivals
Wyoming’s sheep industry, rich in tradition and resilience, finds itself in a battle for survival as 70% of lamb consumed in the U.S. comes from Australia and New Zealand.
Competing with these international heavyweights is no small feat, given their lower production costs and favorable exchange rates.
Still, Wyoming’s lamb producers are determined to carve out their space in the market.
Challenges from Down Under
The dominance of imported lamb has its roots in federal policies, according to Alison Crane, director of the Wyoming Wool Growers Association.
“We import a ton. It’s a major discussion happening in the sheep industry nationally about how we got here,” she said, citing trade agreements and shifting grazing regulations since the 1960s.
Brad Boner, a fourth-generation Wyoming sheep herder, highlighted the uphill battle: “The Australian market share has continually grown… Their dollar is weaker than ours, and they have no predators, making them very difficult to compete with.”
Despite these challenges, Crane remains optimistic. “Wyoming has an edge when it comes to producing high-quality wool and meat,” she said. Wyoming’s fine wool, prized for its cleanliness and yield, complements its growing focus on meat production.
Building a Market for Wyoming Lamb
During the pandemic, lamb producers like Boner pivoted to direct consumer sales, creating online platforms such as “Lamb Guys.”
This strategy not only kept the business afloat but also opened doors to new customers. “If people try lamb, they’re hooked. It’s an extremely high-quality product,” Boner shared.
Crane encourages consumers to support local producers by buying directly or requesting American lamb at their grocery stores. “That’s always the best way to make an impact,” she noted.
With innovative approaches and a focus on quality, Wyoming’s lamb industry aims to overcome its challenges, ensuring locally raised lamb remains a staple for American tables.
Learn more about the challenges and innovations shaping Wyoming’s lamb industry and its commitment to quality by visiting our homepage.
