A newly released economic impact study shows the United States sheep industry has had a significant positive impact on the U.S. economy. The study shows that every dollar spent in sheep and sheep related production added an estimated $2.87 to the American economy in 2016. American Sheep Industry Association Executive Director Peter Orwick says that means sheep producers have contributed over $2 billion to the economy.

He says the study gives sheep producers an important message to share with the Ag Committees writing the next farm bill. Orwick says that includes the need to fund risk management and animal health programs.

Orwick says the study also points out the positive effect the sheep industry has had on jobs.

Orwick says the analysis shows that the sheep industry has contributed $500 million in farm gate receipts from lamb and wool sales, with wool processing adding another $500 million to the economy.