SATURDAY MAY 10th | 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. | Avimor - Howell Station Event Center
A Celebration of Agriculture & Community
On May 10, 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
There's something for everyone to enjoy at Sheep in the Foothills. Enjoy sheep dogs in action, local vendors & displays, wool spinning & weaving, sheep shearing, lamb taste-testing, and an Idaho lamb lunch.
Sheep Shearing Demonstration
Watch shearers in action, expertly trimming the wool from sheep in a process that is as much an art as it is a vital part of sheep production.
Lamb Taste-Testing
Whether you are trying lamb for the first time or are a long-time fan, enjoy a lamb sample, made by the experts: Idaho sheep producers. Free samples are available (first come, first serve, they'll go fast!) and a lamb lunch is available for purchase.
Sheep Dogs in Action
Experience the action in person and see up close how working sheepdogs showcase their skills in herding and protecting their flocks.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Going Back to Its Roots
Avimor wasn’t always a housing development in the vast Boise Foothills. The 23,000 acres have a long 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. Over 60% of the community is preserved as open space. They have committed 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.
We Hope to See You There!
Sheep in the Foothills will be at the Howell Station Event Center Barn within the Avimor community in Eagle.
Howell Station Event Center Barn
At the corner of Glenisla Lane & Glass Lane
Directions:
- Head North on Highway 55
- Go past the main entrance to Avimor (at the light) and continue on Highway 55
- Turn right off the highway at N McLeod Way
- Follow the road and stay on McLeod Way, you will see the barn and the adjacent parking
Vendors
Meet some of the vendors who will be at Sheep in the Foothills!
Boise River Lamb
6th generation Idaho ranchers, and 2nd generation sheep producers, Boise River Lamb raises high-quality, farm-fresh lamb on their ranch in Caldwell, Idaho.
Happy Valley Hounds
Freeze-dried & gently dehydrated dog treats made with 100% locally sourced butcher-cut protein in Nampa, Idaho. Including Idaho lamb treats!
IROAM
The Idaho Rangeland Outdoors Adventure Mobile (IROAM) by the Idaho Rangeland Resource Commission is an interactive educational booth for youth to learn about life on rangelands in Idaho.
