Finnsheep Arrival
Exciting News from JK Evergreen Ranch and Driftless Woolen Mill: Welcoming Our New Flock of Finnsheep!
We’re thrilled to announce the arrival of a new flock at JK Evergreen Ranch and Driftless Woolen Mill—three beautiful ewe lambs born earlier this year! These lovely lambs come to us from Prairie Willows Farm in Minnesota, owned and operated by the wonderful Heidi Quist, whom we had the pleasure of meeting at the Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival this past weekend.
After seeing firsthand how well Heidi cares for her flock, and experiencing the remarkable quality of her sheep, the decision to bring these Finnsheep into our fold was an easy one.
Do not worry we are not ending our Icelandic Sheep flock nor will be cross breed the Finnsheep with the Icelandic’s either. We will be maintaining both flocks separately on our little ranch to ensure the wool is produced in their intended way.
Why Finnsheep?
Finnsheep, also known as Finnish Landrace Sheep in their native Finland, are a remarkable multi-purpose breed. In Finland, they are raised for meat, wool, and pelts, making them incredibly versatile. In the United States, Finnsheep are often used in cross-breeding programs to increase the lambing percentage of commercial flocks, thanks to their high fertility rates.
However, Finnsheep have recently captured the attention of American handspinners and fiber artists for the unique qualities of their wool—renowned for its luster, color, and soft texture. Additionally, their lean meat is becoming a favorite in certain niche markets, particularly among ethnic communities that appreciate its flavor and quality.
Beyond their practical qualities, Finnsheep are known for their friendly and docile nature, making them a joy to manage. They also produce vigorous, healthy lambs that are up and nursing within minutes of birth—a testament to the breed’s hardiness.
We are beyond excited to begin this new chapter with our Finnsheep flock and look forward to sharing the journey with you. Stay tuned for updates on how these lovely lambs are doing and the beautiful wool they’ll contribute to our mill!
