Lorens Longleaf Ranch

Located in the historical range of the longleaf pine in southern Mississippi, Lorens Longleaf Ranch has dedicated itself to raising Katahdin sheep. Known for their tender and flavorful meat, the farm markets three classes of sheep for the freezer market: lamb, yearlings, and older cull sheep. They also take batches of sheep to the Southeast Mississippi Livestock auction in Hattiesburg.

The farm raises Katahdin sheep on pasture, utilizing bahiagrass during the summer and planting forage oats and ryegrass for winter and spring grazing. Supplementation includes hay during winter and a molasses-based lick-tub to support the sheep's rumen health. The farm strictly avoids the use of antibiotics. Ewes lamb in late February through early April, and lambs are raised on pasture until they are ready for market. The farm emphasizes the natural shedding of wool by Katahdin sheep, eliminating the need for shearing.

Customers purchasing lamb or yearling sheep for their freezer benefit from a service where the farm takes the sheep to Stevens Packing plant for processing. Buyers then pick up the frozen, packaged meat from Stevens. The farm does not sell live sheep directly from the ranch. Additionally, the farm shares updates and insights through their blog, Instagram, and YouTube channel.