Icelandic lamb is unique to any other lamb you’ll taste in the world. The breed is considered dual purpose, providing meat and wool to Icelandic farmers. In Iceland, being a shepherd is a multi-generational commitment. Pam Jahnke had a chance to visit with Arnheidur Hjorleifsdottir and Gudmundur Sigurjonsson of Bjarteyjarsandur Sheep Farm. Together the market approximately 1,000 lambs a year and are very involved in monitoring quality improvements in their herd. Arnheidur is also focused on engaging with the public and helping them better understand Icelandic farming practices and their interaction with their sensitive environment.
Bjarteyjarsandur Sheep Farm is part of a larger group of shepherds in the area that will all work together at different times of the year to help manage flocks. Community is important for Iceland farmers. That’s part of the reason why Arnheidur began inviting school children, and in turn visitors, to experience the farm and even stay for a while.
Leave a Reply