Canadian Wool/Sheep Producers Survey: by Anna Hunter of Longway Homestead

Currently in Canada there is no data regarding the small to medium scale wool industry. The only national statistics in Canada reference the wool that is collected and purchased by the Canadian Cooperative Wool Growers (CCWG) there are no statistics or data to date, that account for the wool grown, processed and sold by farmers and ranchers focusing on wool.
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This research project aims to collect and analyze that data and produce information. This data can then be used regionally and nationally to promote and advocate for increased infrastructure, marketing, and support for rural communities and farmers/ranchers. This information can be used by fibreshed organizations and individuals, and will be available without charge in the form of reports and infographics. 

The research will occur in two stages: the first will be an online survey, and for those participants who consent, a follow up phone call or zoom interview will be conducted. The primary survey asks financial questions regarding the income generated by the sale of raw wool or value added wool products. No personal details, information or financial information will be revealed in any of the reports. Participants can choose to remain anonymous. This data will develop an accurate picture of the fibre economy across the country, and will highlight the barriers to growth and resilience. This requires an accurate picture of the financial health of our existing small scale fibre economy. The research will also focus on the farms and farming practices that specifically work to sequester more carbon from the atmosphere through land and animal management.

A future goal of this research is to create an online database of fibre based farms and businesses across the country to be accessed by the public and consumers. Anonymous participants will have to request to be included in this database at a later date if name and contact information is not disclosed.
This research project is a joint effort between Anna Hunter (Long Way Homestead) and the Pembina Fibreshed. The lead researcher is Anna Hunter, with fibreshed members as the advisory committee. All questions can be directed towards info@longwayhomestead.com
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The timeline for the project is as follows:
Primary research December 2020 – March 2021
Secondary research and interviews February 2021 – June 2021
Analyze and report data June 2021 – December 2021

You can complete the survey at the link here