A farmer-friendly, low cost artificial insemination (AI) alternative is needed to allow large segments of the sheep industry to make genetic progress similar to other livestock industries. 

In sheep, AI is inherently more complicated due to difficulties in preserving ram semen and the anatomic complexity of the ewe’s cervix. 

Although numerous research studies have been conducted on AI in sheep, the application of AI at the farmer level in the U.S. is limited.

Using a special insemination pipette developed by Dr. Shulaw and Dr. Duerr, the team will be trained in transcervical artificial insemination techniques.   

In this two year project, we hope to show it is feasible to train shepherds to be proficient in performing transcervical AI, as well as collecting and handling semen. Specific objectives for our team members will be to:

1. Gain experience in transcervical AI;
2. Learn techniques for semen collection, evaluation, preparation and storage; and
3. Use and compare the performance of three different semen extenders.

Outreach to the farming community will be accomplished by:

1.  Hosting an educational workshop focusing on breeding and genetics.
2.  Developing a fact sheet & instructional video about breeding soundness exams and AI.
3.  Disseminating articles to sheep and farm publications.
4.  Periodic blog updates.

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