ASI Finds Support Through RFD-TV

For the first time in American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) history, a show highlighting the strengths of the U.S. sheep and sheep product markets appeared on RFD-TV on Sept. 13.

Mark Oppold, host of RFD-TV's LIVE show, appeared with Peter Orwick, ASI executive director; Margaret Soulen Hinson (Idaho), ASI vice president; and Bill Kuecker (Tenn.), vice chair of ASI's Lamb Council. In addition, the audience viewed a series of sheep producer documentaries depicting the success they have had in the industry and portraying the various methods in which to raise sheep.

A variety of sheep industry issues were covered but the highlights included discussions about the record-high prices for all sheep products, the need to increase supplies to meet the demand of lamb due to new emerging markets, the benefits and ease of adding sheep to already existing agriculture enterprises and resources for new producers looking to get into the industry.

The hour-long show concluded with live calls from the audience.

"This show provided ASI with a great avenue in which to reach agricultural producers and get some great publicity for the sheep industry," explained Orwick. "We are receiving very positive feedback from sheep producer members that are pleased to see a sheep program on RFD-TV. Hopefully, it also generates more sales for current producers and a larger industry as farmers and ranchers expand or add sheep to operations."

The documentaries that aired during the show are available at www.sheepusa.org/Video_Feeds. The entire RFD-TV show will be available soon.