US sheep and lamb producers have a new opportunity to enhance the profitability and sustainability of their operations.

The American Lamb Board has received a grant through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Advancing Markets for Producers (AMP) program. This initiative is designed to help producers improve efficiency and increase productivity by integrating technology and sustainable management strategies. The program also aims to expand market opportunities and support the next generation of sheep producers.

A total of 150 producers will be selected to participate. Each will work with a Technical Service Provider (TSP) to develop operational plans, implement recommended improvements and organize farm data to identify best management practices that both mitigate emissions and enhance productivity.

Producers accepted into the program may receive up to $23,000 to develop and implement improved sheep and land stewardship management plans. Additional benefits of enrollment include:

• Access to a Technical Service Provider
• Electronic livestock identification system
• Soil sampling services
• NSIP ultrasound and genetic consulting services

Applications are open through May 1, 2026. Selected applicants will be notified by June 1. Once eligibility documentation is completed, individual producer programs will begin and run through Sept. 30, 2028.

More information and the application are available at lambboard.com.

To qualify for the program, producers must:

• Establish farm records with the USDA Farm Service Agency
• Complete Form AD-2047 (Customer Data Worksheet)
• Certify they are not a foreign entity
• Certify they are not receiving funding from other government programs (such as EQIP) for the same practices on the same acreage
• Agree to share farm data to support analysis of production efficiency and land stewardship practices
• Participate in required educational workshops and webinars

Approved producers will be expected to:

• Work with a TSP to evaluate current operations and develop an implementation plan
• Adopt on-farm strategies and best management practices outlined in the plan
• Provide production data for surveys and analytical tools
• Complete self-monitoring documentation, including before-and-after photos
• Participate in on-site verification of implemented practices

“This program is about more than just financial support—it’s about equipping American sheep producers with the tools and data they need to steward their land for the long term,” said David Fisher, chairman of the American Lamb Board. “We hope the grant will help producers strengthen both the resilience and profitability of their operations for the next generation.”

Source: American Lamb Board