ABOUT JSBA

The Jacob Sheep Breeders Association (JSBA) was formed in 1988 through the encouragement and guidance of the American Minor Breeds Conservancy (now the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy). The purpose of JSBA is to provide a place for breeders of Jacob Sheep to register their animals, communicate with one another and to centralize the distribution of information. Its mission is to ensure the conservation of this breed through inspection, registration, and education.

The Jacob Sheep Breeders Association is of prime importance in maintaining this majestic and ancient breed in its present form. We welcome your questions about this unique breed and encourage you to join.

Why Become a JSBA Member?

When an individual becomes a member of the Jacob Sheep Breeders Association, they are making a commitment to the stewardship of the Jacob breed and to joining a community of other breeders committed to the welfare of Jacob sheep into the future.

The benefits of being a JSBA member include:

Community: Members look to breed organizations to provide them with a group of peers with whom they can exchange ideas. A JSBA membership is a means to deepen connection with a sense of community. JSBA members develop a vast network of peers who are dedicated to helping each other experience the joys of raising Jacob sheep. A JSBA annual general meeting (AGM) invites Jacob breeders to come together to share ideas and learn from both experts and fellow members, bringing an opportunity to strengthen relationships within our association.

Advocacy: People join a breed organization because they believe in its mission. The conservation philosophy of JSBA supports maintaining the original character of the Jacob breed, its “primitive” characteristics. Heritage breeds of livestock represent an irreplaceable piece of earth’s biodiversity and offer incredible variety that may be needed for future farms – robust health, mothering instincts, the ability to thrive in a changing climate. By advocating for the preservation of Jacob sheep, we enable healthy agriculture development while preserving heritage, history, and culture. JSBA membership confirms a commitment to pursuing our mission to register, conserve, and promote our unique breed of sheep.

Affiliation: People trust affiliations and involvement. Other Jacob breeders and buyers will consider a membership in JSBA to be an indicator of good shepherding practices, a reputable seller, and a leader in the Jacob sheep community. The public respects JSBA’s efforts to build a strong organization with a clearly-defined breed standard.

Resources: Organizations offer specific resources for its members. As a JSBA member, you have access to resources that will enhance your shepherding skills and knowledge of the Jacob breed. Access to the most up-to-date information is an important benefit through our quarterly newsletter, Science and Research blog, informational articles on the JSBA website, and the wisdom of knowledgeable breeders. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION (PDF download)

JSBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2024

Director, Region 1 – West
Kate Barrett, Secretary
78466 Caudle Lane, Lostine, OR 97857
Send Email | 541-561-1005

Director, Region 2 – Midwest
Sarah Karr
3069 Middle Road, Pierpont, OH 44082
Send Email | 440-594-1230

Director, Region 3 – Northeast
Bob May, President
P.O. Box 349, Hope, NJ 07844
Send Email | 908-459-5395

Director, Region 4 – Southwest
Kathryn Morkunas
3451 County Road 21, Fort Lupton, CO 80621
Send Email | 303-659-9192

Director, Region 5 – Southeast
Ronnie Carnes
12407 Highway 107, Tuckasegee, NC 28783
Send Email | 828-293-7070

Director At Large #1
Cheryl Gordon, Treasurer
7386 Aylsworth Road, Shreve, OH 44676
Send Email | 330-466-2892

Director At Large #2
Carl Fredericks, Vice President
10246 Gilbertson Road, Mt. Horeb, WI 53572
Send Email | 608-437-4395

Please consider joining the Jacob Sheep Breeders Association!

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