Farming the Spirit

In Welch, Minnesota, one woman finds a way to release physical energy that she cannot find in a classroom. Beth Slocum, a teacher at Mounds Park Academy, spends her summers on her farm and commutes to Welch to check on her flock several times a week during the school year. “As a teacher, you spend so much time indoors and physically quiet,” she said. “I need the hard work farming requires.”

The sheep need her as well. Beth’s flock of multi-colored sheep numbers about 30, and her breeding flock numbers 12. The ewes in her flock are Border Leicesters and her ram is a Clun Forest. The Clun Forest gains well on grass and the Border Leicesters are a medium sized breed, she said.

Beth, who has always wanted to farm, began raising sheep on an island off of British Columbia in the 1970’s. While in Canada she developed a relationship with the local people, members of the Salish tribe. During her time on the island she sold her fleece and wool to the women, who used it to knit elaborate and beautiful sweaters. She developed a close relationship with Rose Peter, now 90 years old, and their friendship has endured. Although Rose’s failing eyesight hinders her efforts to knit the more elaborate patterns, Beth still sends as much as 75 lbs. of fleece to Rose. Beth has her wool processed in St. Peter, Minnesota before it is shipped to British Columbia. The women that receive Beth’s wool like it because of its many different colors, its crimp, as well as the ease with which it can be spun in long strands.

With the Consumer in Mind

Beth also raises sheep for consumers. Because she uses all natural and sustainable methods, her sheep are lean and hormone and chemical-free. By using rotational grazing on the seasonal grass, Beth is able to ensure that her land is taken care of and her sheep are healthy. “We train the animals to move to the sound of our voices – we don’t chase them down. We keep the barnyard lighted because sheep don’t like dark places.” Beth has learned a great deal from various sources, and the Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota and The Land Stewardship Project have been very helpful. “They help me do something that I care about much better,” said Slocum.

Beth is not alone in her endeavor. Her husband, Robin assists on the farm. “He’s an incredible help,” says Beth, as are neighbors who stop by and check on the herd when she and Robin are unable to make the commute to the farm.

Finding a Market

Beth faces the questions and dilemmas of many small farmers. A primary concern is where to find a market for her product. She is currently working with Lorentz Meats of Cannon Falls in a pilot program to encourage small producers to market directly. While lamb at the grocery store may seem cost prohibitive, Beth is able to sell her lamb at a lower price because of the elimination of handlers and middle-persons. Regular customers, and many new customers, can order lamb meat by the whole, the half, and the quarter.

Beth is committed to raising sheep in a sustainable manner. Her time on the farm not only provides her with a break from teaching and the time it commands, but also a chance to take care of a small portion of the land. She found her way to Minnesota in the 1980’s and says, “I came here to farm. I love to farm.” And farm she will.