2-29-08

Media Release

Public Invited to Observe Spring Lambing at OSU Sheep Center

CORVALLIS, Ore. – The public is invited to view newly born lambs from March 5 to March 28 at the Oregon State University Sheep Center.

Each year, the sheep center draws thousands of school children and other visitors. There is no admission charge, but visitors are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for donation to the Linn-Benton Food Share.

More than 180 Polypay and Suffolk ewes are expected to give birth to several hundred lambs in the barn, located at 7565 N.W. Oak Creek Dr. in Corvallis, said Thomas Nichols, sheep center manager.

Visiting hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily, including weekends. Small groups may go on self-guided tours. Groups of more than 10 should arrange an appointment by sending e-mail to: lambing.barn@oregonstate.edu. An out-of-office auto response will be sent back to you with further instructions.

To reach the sheep center from downtown Corvallis, go west on Harrison Boulevard to the 53rd Street intersection. Continue west through the intersection on N.W. Oak Creek Road. A sign 1.8 miles from the intersection marks the road to the center. The one-lane road has turnouts to yield to oncoming traffic.

The ewes and lambs are part of ongoing research studies in animal health, breeding, feeding and grazing management conducted by the OSU Agricultural Experiment Station. The animals are also used in instructional programs in the OSU Animal Sciences Department and the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine.

People interested in purchasing orphan or "bummer" lambs can call 541-737-2903 and leave a message.