Sheep in the Foothills: A Celebration of Agriculture & Community

On May 9, the Idaho Wool Growers Association, in partnership with Avimor and the Idaho Rangeland Resource Commission, will host Sheep in the Foothills, a one-of-a-kind celebration of rural life, agriculture, and the region’s deep connections to the sheep industry at the Howell Station Event Center. Set against the stunning background of the foothills, this event brings together locals and visitors alike for a fun-filled day of family-friendly activities, educational experiences, and a chance to learn about the rich history of sheep ranching in Idaho.

Sheep in the Foothills is not just an event; it’s a celebration of the traditions that have shaped the community for generations. For attendees, it offers an opportunity to engage with the region’s agricultural roots, taking a look at a day in the life of sheep producers, while making memories and having fun. From demonstrations to hands-on activities, this event highlights the vital role that sheep production plays in Idaho’s history and economy.

Fun For All

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., attendees can see sheep being shorn, working dog demonstrations, taste-test lamb, explore an educational kid’s zone, and shop sheep, lamb, and wool products from local sheep producers.

One of the attractions attendees can look forward to is the sheep shearing demonstration. Visitors can watch skilled shearers in action, expertly trimming the wool from the sheep in a process that is as much an art as it is a vital part of sheep production. These demonstrations provide a fascinating look at how wool is harvested, offering insight into the sustainable practices that keep this craft alive. For those interested in wool itself, there will be demonstrations on wool spinning and weaving.

In addition to the farming-focused attractions, Sheep in the Foothills will have local artisans and vendors, with a wide variety of booths showcasing handmade goods, crafts, and locally sourced lamb. Enjoy locally created products while supporting Idaho sheep, lamb, and wool producers.

Children and families will find plenty to enjoy as well. Educational booths with interactive activities aimed at educating young minds about the joys of rural life and sheep farming will also be available. These hands-on experiences foster a connection to the land and animals that many may not get the chance to encounter or experience.

For the foodies, Sheep in the Foothills will offer a lamb taste-testing, showcasing the delicious and nutritious flavor profile. Whether you are a lamb lover or trying it for the first time, this is an opportunity to indulge in one of the healthiest, and delicious, red meat proteins.

New This Year

After a successful event in 2025, the Idaho Wool Growers Association is excited to bring this event back and bigger than before. This year’s festivities will include a working sheep dog demonstration, a kids zone activity station, a scavenger hunt and fun hike into the foothills, and a Farm to Table Dinner featuring local lamb.

Confirmed for this year is a border collie and trainer showcasing the skills of a working dog moving sheep from one place to another. The duo will be working sheep all day. Watch them exhibit their skills and teamwork and ask the expert any questions you may have.

Get out on the trails and explore our public lands with the scavenger hunt and fun hike. Starting at the Howell Station Event Center, participants will hit the trail, stopping at check points along the way to learn about various topics including plant identification, good stewardship principles, what to do if you come across a guard dog, and more. This is free and non-timed event, with no registration required. Participants can begin at any time during the event and take their time as they explore the lands that make Idaho, Idaho.

The kids zone will feature a hands-on activity- planting a flower in a pot, using wool pellets! Did you know wool can protect and enhance your garden soil? Wool is a completely organic material, easily breaking down and releasing soil amending nitrogen in the process. Wool is also highly water absorbent, reducing overall water usage and helping regulate the moisture content of the soil. Wool pellets are a pelleted form of raw wool, great for potted plants. Just in time for Mother’s Day, this activity will have you digging into the world of wool and its many uses. Supplies are limited, so get there early!

Finally, the evening of Friday May 8, a farm to table dinner will be hosted at the Howell Station Event Center featuring a multi course dinner with local, Idaho lamb from Boise River Lamb. More details about the dinner and how to buy tickets will be available on our website, www.sheepinthefoothills.com, shortly.

Going Back to Its Roots

Avimor wasn’t always a housing development in the vast Boise Foothills. The 23,000 acres have a long and vast history of ranching and grazing on the range. The McLeod family purchased the property in 1916 and began to operate a sheep and cattle ranch known as the Spring Valley Ranch. In early 2000, the McLeod family decided to develop the Spring Valley Ranch and build a place that would sustain future generations for years to come. Today, Avimor encompasses 1000 single-family homes on 2000 acres. Over 60% of the community is preserved as open space. They have made a commitment to preserving open spaces and developing trails to encourage both residents and the public alike to recreate on public lands. They have also made the use of public lands for multispecies grazing a priority for the hills surrounding their community.

Each spring, the hills surrounding Avimor are covered in sheep, leisurely grazing in the warm spring sunshine. Sheep in the Foothills highlights the collaboration and commitment between Avimor and Idaho’s sheep industry and celebrates the rich heritage in a day full of fun, learning, and connection to the land.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or visiting the area for the first time, Sheep in the Foothills promises to be a memorable day for all ages. It’s a chance to connect with the community, learn about the importance of agriculture, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery the Boise foothills are known for. Mark your calendars for May 9, 2026, and come celebrate all things sheep!