225 | Sheep, Polywire, and Practical Grazing with Richard Popham

In this episode of the Grazing Grass Podcast, Cal visits with Richard about raising registered Katahdin sheep in Kentucky using practical grazing systems and portable electric fencing. Richard explains how he successfully manages sheep with two strands of polywire, why fence training matters, and how good grazing management helps keep sheep content and productive.

The conversation explores:

• Using two and three strand polywire systems for sheep
• Why sheep must be trained to electric fence
• Managing sheep with portable fencing and reels
• Selecting productive and efficient ewes
• Why buying better sheep matters more than buying more sheep
• Building low-stress handling systems
• Using records to improve flock genetics
• Parasite resistance and culling decisions
• Weaning strategies and lamb management
• Grazing sheep on small acreage near neighborhoods
• Managing sheep without livestock guardian dogs
• Portable fencing tools and equipment recommendations
• Rotational grazing timing and parasite management
• Why Richard prefers moderate-sized ewes
• The role of NSIP and flock performance records
• Selecting rams and improving flock genetics over time

Richard also shares practical advice for new sheep producers, including starting small, focusing on quality animals, and building systems that fit your lifestyle and available time.