Mapping Iowa’s Animal Fiber Economy to Unlock New Value

Shearing sheep, alpacas, and llamas is a routine and necessary task for Iowa farmers, but it can cost up to $50 per head. Long processing backlogs and limited options mean that fiber or wool often has nowhere to go, leaving farmers with a significant expense and little return.

An interdisciplinary Iowa State team — Maria Wurzinger, Rothschild Endowed Professor in Global Food Security and Animal Science, Gustavo Gutiérrez, associate professor of animal science, William Rose, associate professor of supply chain management, and Rachel Eike, associate professor of fashion design and merchandising — wants to change that by creating a clear picture of Iowa’s animal fiber system, from farm to finished product.

The team will work directly with farmers, processors, and other stakeholders to document how fiber moves through the system. By working with them closely, the team hopes to help farmers and processors share information and uncover opportunities they may not see on their own.