A group of BLU members is working together on a possible import of new UK genetics in 2021. At least four US breeders so far have signed up to purchase straws from a potential import of semen from three production rams working in the Cernyw flock in Wales, UK. The rams come from three different flocks: Cernyw, Derwenlas (home of “Masterplan”) and Towdypotts. See ram information and photos below. AB Europe, which specializes in artificial insemination and embryo transfer, will be facilitating the collection.

We are in the first stages of arranging for the import, which involves generating interest in the import in order to meet the minimum number of straws ordered (100 per ram, therefore 300). We are within 50 straws of meeting this threshold and are actively seeking more breeders interested in purchasing straws. All orders will be split equally between the three rams (i.e. an order of ten straws will three of Ram A, three of Ram B, and four of Ram C). Cost per straw is estimated at $95 – we are trying to be conservative, hoping the actual price is lower, but there are many factors that may affect the final price, so this is an estimate.

Each straw will breed one ewe via laproscopic artificial insemination performed by a trained technician. They are stored in liquid nitrogen tanks and have a virtually unlimited shelf life, as long as they are kept properly frozen.

There are plenty of details and caveats involved with any import, not the least of which involve getting the rams through the the battery of tests and quarantine periods required by both governments. Any funds invested are partially refundable, depending on which stage in the process any failures take place. However, as we are dealing with animals and Mother Nature, all risk cannot be eliminated.

The first date for collection of funds is in early February – one quarter of the total. For more information, please contact Margaret Van Camp at pitchfork3772@gmail .com, or call 810-814-3408. To fill out an interest form for the straws (no money required), visit: http://www.heritagesheepreproduction.com