Montana State University Launches a New Wool Lab to Revive an Old Industry
The lab aims to make wool production more profitable as synthetic fibers have taken over much of the market, Roeder said.
- Montana State University opened a $10 million Wool Lab in July, a facility dedicated to making wool production more efficient and profitable for Montana sheep ranchers. Superintendent Brent Roeder manages the lab, which aims to revitalize the regional industry through research and innovation.
- Over the last 80 years, the American sheep herd has decreased by 90% as synthetic fabrics overwhelmed the market. Roeder argues the industry suffered from years of economic neglect, requiring new investment to compete against cheaper imports.
- Legislative appropriations and private industry donations funded the project. Stefanie Leach, executive assistant with the Montana Wool Growers Association, said the organization contributed $100,000, arguing the facility provides "necessary work" to foster innovation.
- Roeder hopes the lab teaches students "why the wool industry is still important and relevant." Training the next generation is crucial for innovation, he emphasized, ensuring Montana sheep ranchers can compete long-term.
- Sheep rancher Becky Weed, who utilized lab resources in the 1980s, noted modern producers need help processing and marketing their fiber. Weed observed that growers today must pay closer attention to market demand to succeed.
22 Articles
22 Articles
Associated Press News
Montana State University launches a new Wool Lab to revive an old industry
On a hot August afternoon, wool expert Brent Roeder strode among sheep, combing his fingers through their fleece to assess color, length and uniformity.
Montana State University has a new $10 million Wool Lab. Why?
Brent Roeder has spent a lifetime watching synthetic fiber undermine demand for wool. Now he hopes to show students why wool is still “important and relevant.” The post MSU launches a new Wool Lab to revive an old industry appeared first on Montana Free Press.
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