12th Annual Small-Scale Sustainable Sheep Farming Event in Solway Feb. 14

Solway will host the 12th Annual Small Scale Sustainable Sheep Farming event at Lammers Town Hall on Saturday, Feb. 14, bringing together producers, processors and fiber artists to strengthen local food and fiber systems. Doors open at 9:30 a.m., and the program runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 235 Centerline Road N., Solway, MN 56678.

Organized by the Sustainable Sheep and Fiber Community of Northern Minnesota (SSFC) with Three Rivers Fibershed listed as a partner, the day aims to provide practical information for people who raise sheep and for consumers seeking locally produced meat and fiber. The event serves as both a learning forum and a marketplace to connect buyers with local producers, a link that matters for Beltrami County residents who rely on short supply chains for food security and regional economic resilience.

Speakers confirmed for the program include Greg Wierschke of Happy Halal Meats in Willmar and Debbie Johnson and Mishel Carlson of Fiddlesticks Fiber Arts in Bemidji. “Greg will be talking about his USDA meat processing facility for lamb and goat, how it got started and the partnership between producers and processors,” a release said. “Other speakers include Debbie Johnson and Mishel Carlson of Fiddlesticks Fiber Arts in Bemidji, who will share their passion for fiber arts and desire to create a community space and fiber art shop.” The Three Rivers Fibershed describes the larger effort with mission language: “Join us in building decentralized fiber systems that honor both land and workers.”

Lunch will be provided on site and has been described in two ways in event materials: the SSFC board and volunteers will prepare lunch for attendees, and a social post promoting the event noted “Lunch from Local Farms.” Organizers request that attendees pre-register by Sunday, Feb. 8 to assist with meal planning; email sustainablesheep@gmail.com or call (218) 657-2502 to reserve a spot. Attendees can also pay at the door. Current registration rates listed in event materials are $25 per adult, $40 per couple, $20 per SSFC member and $35 per SSFC couple. The event also marks the start of the SSFC membership year, and members not already renewed for 2026 will need to pay their dues.

Vendors interested in setting up booths have historically been welcome at these gatherings. An archival Three Rivers Fibershed listing from an earlier edition noted vendor policy that required pre-registration and a Minnesota ST-19 form; that language is from a prior year and prospective vendors should confirm current requirements with SSFC at the contact above.

Beyond craft and commerce, the event touches public health and equity issues by addressing small-scale processing access and local supply chains. Expanded local processing capacity can shorten transport times, improve traceability and keep revenue in rural communities, while supporting fiber producers helps diversify farm income. For Beltrami County residents, that means potential gains in local food reliability and job opportunities tied to agriculture and fiber arts.

What comes next for readers is straightforward: pre-register by Feb. 8 or plan to attend and pay at the door, bring questions about processing and fiber production, and consider renewing or joining SSFC for 2026. Organizers plan a day of practical talks and community connections that aim to move more pasture-to-people and pasture-to-parka activity through northern Minnesota.