Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Association

09/01/2026

WLBA member, and a large animal vet at Military Ridge Veterinary Service, Dr Amy Robinson advocates for rural large animal vets. Thank you Amy!

08/31/2026

🎓 Case IH Master Stockman Alumni Spotlight

Meet Lindsey Schmoll!

Lindsey is currently a senior at South Dakota State University, majoring in Agricultural Business with a minor in Graphic Design. She remains actively involved in the livestock industry through her family’s Romney sheep flock, where they raise, show, and market quality breeding stock. Her involvement with the flock has allowed her to develop valuable relationships and connections throughout the livestock industry while continuing to grow her knowledge and passion for the sheep industry. Beyond showing, Lindsey finds great fulfillment in helping 4-H members with their livestock projects, sharing her knowledge and experiences to help the next generation of young livestock enthusiasts succeed.

When asked what the Master Stockman Award has provided for her, she responds: "The master stockman award is much more than a scholarship; it allows youth in the state of Wisconsin the opportunity to strengthen their communication skills, build confidence, and connect with industry leaders during the interview process. It has been something that I have found very valuable, not because of the scholarship, but the skills and confidence I have gained along the way."

Thank you, Lindsey, for sharing how being named the Case IH Master Stockman has impacted your journey and is contributing to your success in life. We wish you the best while continuing in your agricultural education!

08/28/2026

🎓 Master Stockman Alumni Spotlight

Meet Bracen Brandt from Reedsburg, Wisconsin!

Bracen recently graduated from the University of Wisconsin - River Falls with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business, with a Minor in Animal Science. He moved back home and has recently accepted the role as an Insurance Agent at his local State Farm Office.

Bracen states, "Agriculture has been a passion my entire life. I’ve been fortunate enough to start building my own flock, Brandt Livestock, and helping families find, feed, and exhibit their projects. Between my family, friends, customers, and my recent start to my judging career, I’ve been very fortunate to give knowledge, advice, and an honest opinion to many across the Midwest. My life wouldn’t be what it is today without the Agricultural industry, and I look forward to paying it back in the future.

Youth should definitely apply for this award! There is no greater way to express your experiences and knowledge about your operation and the industry as a whole. The process allows you to grow and develop as a future leader when you get set into the real-world setting. All while allowing you to get rewarded for your efforts and planning for your future."

Thank you, Bracen, for sharing how being named the Master Stockman has impacted your journey and contributed to your success in life. We are grateful for the opportunity to hear your story and learn from your experiences!

08/27/2026

Wonderful tribute to Adam Massman.

08/23/2026

Entry Deadline is TODAY!

Sheep Show Entries: Early entries are due TODAY Sunday, August 23.

08/18/2026

🎓 Master Stockman Alumni Spotlight

Meet Ava Leibfried from Platteville, Wisconsin!

Ava is currently pursuing a degree in Agricultural Business with a Professional Sales Certificate at Iowa State University. Since receiving the Master Stockman Award in 2023, she has continued to build on the leadership and work ethic developed through the livestock industry. Ava remains involved in her family's Angus operation, Leibfried Land & Livestock, where they raise seedstock and commercial cattle while marketing direct-to-consumer Angus beef.

When asked why youth should apply for the Master Stockman Award, Ava shared:

"The Master Stockman Award recognizes the hard work you're already putting into the livestock industry, but it's also an opportunity to grow beyond the show ring. The application process encourages you to reflect on your experiences, build confidence in your own story, and connect with others who share the same passion for agriculture. Some of the relationships you make can last well beyond the award itself. One of the interviewers from my Master Stockman interview is now my roommate's dad—a reminder that this industry is built on relationships. You never know where one conversation or one opportunity will lead."

The Master Stockman Award celebrates young people who are committed to the livestock industry while helping prepare them for future opportunities. Ava's journey is just one example of how the skills, connections, and confidence gained through the program can continue to open doors long after the award is received.

08/08/2026

The Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Association wishes all exhibitors and their families the very best of luck at the Wisconsin State Fair! Thank you for your dedication, hard work, and passion for the livestock industry.

We can't wait to see all you accomplish. Safe travels, and good luck!

08/07/2026

🎓 Master Stockman Alumni Spotlight

Meet Talena Sprecher from Lone Rock, Wisconsin!

Talena is currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration – Marketing at Western Illinois University, where she serves as President of the Women in Business organization. She remains actively involved in the livestock industry as the Social Media and Marketing Intern for the American Border Leicester Association, helps manage a flock of approximately 75 Border Leicester ewes, and is building her own club lamb operation. As her show career comes to a close this fall, she has also dedicated her time to mentoring young sheep and swine exhibitors while judging livestock shows whenever she has the opportunity.

When asked why youth should apply for the Master Stockman Award, Talena shared:

"If I have learned anything from my time on judging teams and at WIU, it's that your stockmanship abilities are what create relationships and opportunities in this industry. Without the skills this award challenged me to reflect on, I wouldn't have connected with the incredible people who have helped shape my journey. The application process itself is what makes it so valuable, it jump-starts the skills and mindset you'll need as you prepare for your future."

The Master Stockman Award is about much more than recognition; it's an opportunity to reflect, grow, and prepare for what's ahead. Thank you, Talena, for sharing your experience. We wish you the very best in this next chapter!

08/05/2026

🐑 It's official — entries for the Sheep Shows at the Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival are now OPEN! 🎉

Enter your sheep online here: https://showman.app/shows #/wisconsin-sheep-and-wool-festival-2eef

Our website will be updated later today with the link as well. We can't wait to see you and your flock in the show ring!