Newell lamb market declines dramatically - KOTA Territory News

So much can change over the course of a year, and Newell ranchers know that all too well.

"Last year was the perfect storm on the good side for the sheep industry, this year it's a perfect storm on the bad side," said sheep producer Gary Babb.

A 90-pound lamb that was selling at market for over $200 last year is now selling for around $90. "We're looking at a 70% difference in pricing over last year and it really puts some pressure on producers to find a way to make a living," said South Dakota State Extension Sheep Field Specialist Dave Ollila.

Ollila says because of the economy, lambs are in high supply and low demand. But some ranchers say market shifts are just the nature of the business. "We have been up and down with the markets our whole lives, the one thing this year that's making it so bad is the drought," said Babb.

Babb says not only will producers be making less money when they sell their sheep, but they'll also be paying more for feed in the fall and winter.

"They're really under the gun to find a way to make it work," said Ollila.

But sheep are hardy and so are the people who raise them. "There is a tradition and a culture in the sheep industry and it will remain," said Ollila

"We're optimistic we always are," said Babb.

So even when they go from feast to famine, Newell ranchers are keeping their spirits high.