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Willow Pond Farm

Willow Pond Farm breeds Shetland sheep in Castelton, VA, located in Rappahannock County and the Blue Ridge near Charlottesville. John Schwab and Tracy Schwab participate in the American Shetland Sheepbreeders Association and follow its guidelines for breed standards, with regular health screenings and routine hoof and parasite management. Their sheep live in roomy pastures with access to a sheltered barn, and lambs are handled daily from an early age to promote calm temperament.

The farm’s commitment to sustainable practices includes rotational grazing, pasture enrichment, and careful manure management to support soil health. Breeding goals center on fiber quality, temperament, and conformation, resulting in sheep well suited to both small farms and fiber artists. Their fine fleece, valued by local spinners and mills for its softness and rich natural hues, reflects a thoughtful blend of traditional breeding and attentive care. Visitors often comment on the serene farm setting and the sheep’s gentle, approachable nature.