Shepherding 101

Shepherding 101 at Whispering Pines Dairy

Spend the day learning the essentials of shepherding on a working dairy farm. This hands-on class is designed for families, aspiring homesteaders, and anyone curious about keeping sheep and goats. Learn how to start a farm on limited acreage!

What to Expect

• Rotating Learning Stations: Small groups will rotate every 20–30 minutes for focused time at each activity.
• Milking Parlor: Learn what equipment is needed and practice milking sheep and goats.
• Pasture Tour: Explore our pastures and understand the basics of nutrition, shelter, and fencing for healthy flocks.
• Health Checks: Practice FAMACHA scoring and BCS, learn humane handling techniques, and discover how to care for young lambs and kids.
• Bible Lesson: Learn why sheep are the most mentioned animal in the Bible, taught by a shepherd.
• Working Farm in Action: Watch Border Collies herd, see livestock guardian dogs at work, and experience daily feeding and farm tasks.

Farm Store
Our farm store will be open after class with cheeses, meats, fresh milk (cow, goat, and sheep), kefir, yogurt, and wool products including yarn, roving, blankets, and hides.

Who Should Come
We have taught visitors from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, inspiring new micro dairies and homesteads. If you are considering starting your own flock, this class is the perfect place to begin. Families are welcome. Tickets are the same price for children and adults, with discounts for SC Sheep members.

What to Bring

• Weather-appropriate clothes
• Rain or rubber boots (easy to hose off)
• Baby wipes and hand sanitizer
• Water bottle
• Bag for wool to take home

This event runs rain or shine. The SC Sheep annual meeting will follow the class. Do not miss this opportunity to connect with nature, gain practical skills, and enjoy a memorable farm day.