National Ram Sale Dates
Frequently Asked Questions
We invite producers from across the nation to submit entries during our open entry period April 15th to May 15th. We have a limited number of sale slots for both ewes and rams so your entry may or may not be accepted. Further, this sale is renowned for being a premium national sale with elite quality rams and ewes, so poor quality sheep are sifted and bottom selling sheep are likely to be replaced with new consignors.
The National Ram Sale is designed to be an event rather than just a sale, so there are multiple activities, programs and social events including great food and entertainment. We invite consignors, buyers and everyone interested in the sheep industry to attend and enjoy the experience. Consignors receive information packets to assist them in having their entries, sheep and all sale requirements in order prior to the sale.
Yes and no, we promote both your sheep as well as your production system and farm, so we want as much information on each of those as you are willing to submit. We believe in the NSIP data system and see that as being the future of our industry, however, we do not require producers to utilize this program. Great marketing programs provide as much information as possible for buyers.
Contact the Sale Secretary or any of the Sale Committee members - we would love to have you be part of our great event!
Supporting members are those who donate a minimum of $10,000 annually to the sale! Just kidding, they are members who donate an additional $150 and receive an official NRS jacket and other benefits.
Then you still own them! In some cases, we may be able to sell them by the plate.
Yes and No - While we do not require sellers to deliver or even make arrangements for delivery, we do appreciate any insights, connections or help available to ensure the sheep are delivered in a timely, safe and healthy condition.
Our goal is to provide as much information, and assist in every way possible to ensure our online buyers are comfortable with our online experience and they receive sheep that meet or exceed their expectations.
We let the market determine the ratio of lambs and yearlings. While it is cheaper to sell sheep as lambs, it is important to remember there are buyers that only desire to purchase yearlings - this is particularly true in the maternal breeds.
Yes and No - in general our goal is to permit each consignor to present their sheep in the fleece length, body condition etc. as they desire. We do however expect all range rams be presented unfitted with feet trimmed, and 'will nots' [manure balls on rear ends] removed. Stud rams and ewes can be presented as the consignor desires.
Yes, however our goal is to sell sheep, not cherry pick the market. Excessive no sales may result in consignment cuts or removal from the sale.
Yes and No, there are limited opportunities to camp near the facilities, however there are no designated camping spots with hookups. Arrangements are made with hotels for discounted room rates and there are camping facilities with hookups in the area.
Yes, we can arrange to have a person represent you on the telephone, please contact sale management for details.
Once the sheep leave the sale ring they now belong to the new buyer and NRS does not have liability or enforcement ability to deal with such losses. We do however, strongly suggest to all consignors to work directly with buyers to resolve health and death loss issues.
Not only no, but hell no! We make every effort to provide lots in each breed ranging from a single ram to pens of 5. Please select lots that have the number or sheep you desire to purchase.