Meet the Breeder

Fred’s been all in with livestock since 1976 when he bought his first lambs for the county fair. Sheep turned into pigs, and before long, he was a 4-H standout, known for his feeding, nutrition, and showmanship know-how.

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We met in 1978 and had no idea livestock would shape our lives for the next 40+ years. Our kids were raised in the barn and the show ring, and they produced champions year after year, including at our state fair.  In 1996, Fred co-founded The Market Masters 4-H club. Teaching kids became his new passion, and it stuck.

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Even after stepping back for a bit, Fred couldn’t stay away. He tried goats, and like clockwork, his first season turned out six champions.

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Now it’s Valais Blacknose Sheep. In 2025, our barn is home to 100% full-blood Valais, with more lambs on the way. We’ve officially moved on from breed-ups, except for one special ewe we’ve kept with purpose. She’s a hornless F4 we bred with intention, and we’re curious to see if we can eventually produce a domestic purebred without horns.

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Fred’s doing what he’s always done, diving in, learning everything he can, and giving it his all. And me? I’m right beside him, his tech support, photographer, cheerleader, and co-pilot in this wonderful journey.