Feb 18 • 11:07 UTC 🇪🇪 Estonia ERR

Family Raising Sheep in Laiu: Sometimes We Carry Sheep on Our Backs

A family in Laiu discusses their sheep-raising practices and the challenges they face.

Argo Jõesoo, the owner of Indreku farm in Laiu, Estonia, has shared anecdotes from the last eight years of raising 400 sheep. He recounts the extreme circumstances they have faced, including the need to physically carry sheep across the island at times, as well as strategies they employ to manage the flock. One significant challenge they face is the presence of juniper thickets where sheep tend to hide, prompting plans to remove these areas to prevent hiding, thus facilitating better management of the flock.

Jõesoo explains that they are also focused on restoring semi-natural landscapes by decreasing the juniper population. This endeavor is part of a broader ecological initiative as they prepare for the arrival of their sheep in a few months. He mentions the importance of cleaning up and burning the felled trees to support this restoration process. The owners are not only concerned with effective sheep management but also with the restoration of the local biodiversity and landscape health.

Every spring, Jõesoo undertakes the journey with his sheep to a small islet in the Väinameri Sea. His dedication reflects a long-standing tradition and commitment to not only farming but also maintaining the ecological balance in their environment. The community effort and active management are vital as they navigate the unpredictable challenges of livestock farming in their region.

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