American Sheep Industry Association Annual Convention wraps up in Reno

The American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) gathered in Reno, Nev. Jan. 28-31 for the 2026 ASI Annual Convention, where individuals involved in all aspects of the sheep industry gathered for four days of networking, collaborative conversation and committee meetings.

In a Feb. 6 Facebook post, the association says the convention hosted 425 registrants, 12 industry groups, 16 vendors, 60 meetings and nine additional events including a fashion show and an awards ceremony.

“We know no numerical value can be placed on the impact of collaboration,” the post reads. “Every attendee brought unique insight from their corner of the sheep industry and region of the country, which truly helped make the event meaningful.”

The event kicked off with an ASI Executive Board meeting, covering everything from agrivoltaics, the H-2A visa program, the ongoing 201 Trade Case and more, then ended with a reception for all attendees at the Atlantis.

Throughout the rest of the week, discussion continued to cover important industry topics including harmful lamb imports, labor shortages and lobbying the Trump administration for financial assistance to help offset low wool prices, just to name a few.

During the event, ASI also presented awards to several outstanding leaders who were recognized for their dedication, innovation and impact on the U.S. sheep industry.

This year, Bob Buchholz was the recipient of the McClure Silver Ram Award, Dr. Reid Redden was the winner of the Industry Innovation Award, Brian and Carolyn Bitner received the Distinguished Producer Award, Northern Ag Network Broadcaster Andy Schwab was honored with the Shepherd’s Voice Award, Dr. Christopher Schauer was the recipient of the Peter Orwick Camptender Award and Dan Gutzman was honored with the Wool Excellence Award. 

On the last day of the convention, the ASI Board of Directors held its meeting with a focus on board business, committee updates, policy considerations and financial reports. 

John Noh of Idaho concluded his term and was recognized for his service, and David Julian of Wyoming was elected to the ASI Executive Board.  

The 2027 ASI Annual Convention is set for Jan. 13-16 in Charleston, S.C.

Hannah Bugas is the managing editor of the Wyoming Livestock Roundup. Send comments on this article to roundup@wylr.net.