VAI (vaginal artificial insemination) of Icelandic sheep

We are very excited to have the opportunity to use VAI on our sheep!

I have completed the seminar this past fall, taught by Gudmundur Johannesson and Thorstienn Olafsson the head of Southram AI station in Iceland, and the inventor of the specialized technique.

Southram website is here:

http://southram.bssl.is/default2.asp?Docid=4&RevID=2&Tpl=1Template1.asp&M1=4

Using AI gives us the great advantage of adding to our flock, the genetics from some of the very best rams in Iceland.  The rams are selcted by progeny tests, performance of thier daughters (milking ability and prolificacy)  and their characteristics. The rams are measured and given points on individual body parts based on the judging standards given by the Farmers Association of Iceland. Progeny tests take in to account growth rate, ultrasound scanning,  carcass grading, and wool quality.

We already have many foundation sheep who are offspring of AI, or have many AI lines in their pedigree, thanks to the work of other breeders. Now we will have the chance to  improve the flock ourselves , picking the specific characteristics from the best of Iceland's rams to match our ewes, and offer those sheep for sale. This way not only do we make our flock better, we can offer new shepherds the highest quality breed stock to begin their own flock.

 Our ewe Elaine, is a daughter of AI sire Mimir 04-951