HISTORY

The Dakota Lamb Growers Cooperative became incorporated April 16, 1999 after three years of feasibility studies, market research and market development. The goal of the co-op is to produce natural premium lamb products. The intent is to provide a consistent product at a consistent price benefiting local lamb producers. The term "Dakota Lean" has been registered as a Trademark and lamb sold must meet certain criteria which include weight, percentage of fat and confirmation requirements. These criteria are indicators of muscle mass, youth and leanness, qualities that consumers desire. In order to produce high quality meat products, all animals will be grain fed and in the future animals will be bred with specific genetic characteristics.

The Dakota Lamb Growers Board of Directors is made up of individuals with a variety of experience in the sheep industry. The board solicited expertise from a variety of agencies including the North Dakota Agricultural Products Utilization Commission, North Dakota State University, North Dakota Association of Cooperatives, and area Economic Development personnel and Consulting Services.

This new venture is unique in many aspects. It provides sheep producers in North Dakota and neighboring states a totally new way to market their lambs.

Founding memberships in the co-op have been accepted at a cost of $100.00 per member. At the present time there are 184 growers from North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Montana. Present members may purchase new equity shares as the cooperative grows. As a return on investment, members who produce qualifying lambs, will receive premium, in addition to market price, on all lambs sold to the co-op.