From Wool to Wellness: Lincoln University’s 41st Annual Sheep Shearing School Provides Practical Training

A participant practices sheep shearing with an instructor at Lincoln University’s Sheep Shearing School.

Lincoln University of Missouri (LU) College of Agriculture, Environmental and Human Sciences welcomed approximately 20 participants from Missouri and surrounding states to Jefferson City for its 41st Annual Sheep Shearing School on March 5-6, 2025. The fully booked event brought attendees to Lincoln’s George Washington Carver Farm, where experienced instructors provided hands-on training in shearing techniques, equipment use and flock management.

Participants and instructors work together during Lincoln University’s 41st Annual Sheep Shearing School, gaining hands-on experience in shearing techniques.

"Most domesticated sheep breeds rely on humans for shearing because they no longer shed their wool naturally," said lead instructor Guy Frazier, who has taught at Lincoln’s Sheep Shearing School for nearly two decades. "For centuries, humans have selectively bred sheep for denser wool because it has long been one of the best materials for clothing — and used for shelter, insulation and lanolin production for leather conditioning.”

"Wool’s ability to wick moisture makes it an effective insulator, particularly in cold weather," Frazier said. "The wetter it gets, the more heat it retains, which defies what most people expect. While other materials lose warmth when damp, wool continues to generate heat, making it ideal for insulation."

Lead instructor Guy Frazier (left) demonstrates proper shearing techniques to participants at Lincoln University’s Sheep Shearing School.

He added that this heat-trapping effect also applies to sheep themselves. Wetting them down in hot weather does not help cool them off effectively. Instead, it can trap heat close to their bodies. Shearing is the most effective way to help sheep regulate their body temperature and stay comfortable in the summer.

"Without regular shearing, excess wool can become a health risk," Frazier said. "It adds unnecessary weight, debris and other contaminants, which can lead to mobility problems and infections."

Sheep are assembled for Lincoln University’s 41st Annual Sheep Shearing School.

To ensure participants gained confidence in the shearing process, Frazier provided them with a variety of shearing tools to test firsthand. Attendees learned proper equipment handling, maintenance and technique. This practice taught them to shear safely and efficiently while also helping them determine which equipment best suited their needs before making future investments.

In addition to hands-on shearing training, participants learned about flock health management from State Extension Specialist Dr. Mohan Acharya of LU’s Small Ruminant Program. His presentation focused on integrated parasite management, a critical aspect of maintaining wool quality and overall sheep health.

A participant carefully shears a sheep under the supervision of an instructor at Lincoln University’s 41st Annual Sheep Shearing School.

When asked about the future of wool production, Frazier said, "The future of wool comes down to what we, as a society, prioritize — do we value recyclable, renewable materials that biodegrade, or will we favor synthetic, less sustainable alternatives?"

LU’s Small Ruminant Program also serves as a valuable resource for sheep and goat producers beyond this training event. The program provides education, research and outreach focused on sustainable flock management, parasite control, nutrition and overall animal health. Those looking for additional guidance on small ruminant production can contact State Extension Specialist Dr. Homero Salinas of LU’s Small Ruminant Program at SalinasH@LincolnU.edu.

A sheep gazes into the camera at Lincoln University’s Sheep Shearing School. 

Applications for the 2026 Sheep Shearing School will open in Fall 2025, with space limited to 20 participants. All supplies are provided with the registration fee. For more information, contact Jody Bruemmer at BruemmerJ@LincolnU.edu.