The Sonoma County women raising sheep for wool, despite economic struggles
Natalie Hanson, NORTH BAY BUSINESS JOURNAL
For longtime shepherds, keeping up the traditional work of raising sheep for quality wool has been rewarding — but may not be sustainable for future generations.
Joann Slissman has made a living raising sheep on her farm in Occidental since 1986, taking pride in producing high-quality wool since her days as a beginner spinner. To her, the Sonoma County environment is ideal for good wool: “There’s no reason to ship it from England or Scotland … because we can raise sheep out here.”
But at 83, she’s growing concerned about the ability to keep going, and who will take over the job in the future. The work of fiber production has become more costly, while continuing to be physically taxing, in California.
Slissman said she’s long enjoyed raising different breeds of sheep in the North Bay’s moderate temperatures. She started raising Romney sheep, from English marshlands, which are doing well in Occidental’s climate alongside her horses, if they wear special coats to protect their fleece.
Read more at https://www.pressdemocrat.com/2026/04/25/the-women-raising-sonoma-sheep-for-wool-despite-economic-struggles/