The Cultural History and Future of Sheep Farming in the High Country

From agricultural development theories, literature research, and interviews with community members that raised sheep, I have attempted to piece together a cultural history surrounding sheep in the High Country. By describing the past during the height of sheep production during the 1930s and 1940s, one can view the community structure and reasons why sheep production was so popular. Reasons for the decline in sheep are discussed. I seek to determine the viability of raising sheep in the High Country today, applying lessons from the past and encouraging the use of new alternative and emerging markets in innovative ways.