For 50 years, remarkable South Dakota sheep producers have been honored through the Master Lamb Producer program. This year, three operations were recognized for their excellence in innovation, production metrics, and leadership in the SD sheep industry and beyond.
Matt and Natalie Palmlund operate Next Year Ranch in Bancroft, alongside their kids Haden, Kendra, Ethan, and Clara. Matt and Natalie bought their property in 2004, starting with cows and crops.
What began as a simple effort to train a border collie puppy with a handful of ewes has grown into a thriving flock of 350 Suffolk, Polypay, and Rambouillet ewes. Matt retains ownership of his lambs through finishing and markets them as fat lambs.
Next Year Ranch also sells replacement ewe lambs and rams in response to growing interest from friends and neighbors, reflecting the quality of their flock.
The Palmlund familys journey is a testament to resilience and vision, building a legacy from the ground up.
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