During mid-May (14th - 18th) the UC Hopland Research & Extension Center (HREC) hosted the 2012 Sheep Shearing School.   The event was coordinated by UCCE Range & Livestock Advisor John Harper in cooperation with HREC.  Approximately 20 participants paid almost $300 for the 5-day course which included professional hands-on instruction, the ASI workbook/DVD as provided by the American Sheep Industry Association, and use of shearing equipment.  

National Sheep Shearing Instructor - Mike Williams, from Myrtle Point OR,  and assistants, instructed participants in the correct methods as certified by the National Shearing Program.  This five-day hands-on course, sponsored partially by the National Sheep Shearing Program, was intended for both beginner as well as the advanced shearer. 

To our knowledge this is the only such class offered in California this year.  About 350 head of the HREC sheep flock was "fleeced" during the week.