Craig Daily Press

Debbie and John Wellman raise Corriedale sheep on their ranch south of Hamilton because of the fine wool fibers produced by the breed. John’s great-grandfather, Harrison Wilber Wellman, started the ranch in 1912 when he purchased the D.D. Ferguson Ranch next to his homestead claim.

Photo by Dan Olsen /
Buy a print of this photo

John Wellman shows off his Moffat County Fair Grand Champion wool from the Corriedale sheep. Wool buyers look at the fineness and length of the fiber, as well as the crimp, or zigzag folds in the wool, to determine the wool’s quality. Cleanliness also is a factor in the wool’s value.

Photo by Dan Olsen /
Buy a print of this photo

Corriedale sheep move about on the Wellman Ranch after spending a month on Thornburg Mountain south of Hamilton. In September, most will be shipped off to spend the winter in feedlots while 10 to 20 percent remain to build next year’s herd.

Photo by Dan Olsen /
Buy a print of this photo

John and Debbie Wellman move some sheep at their ranch in southern Moffat County and northern Rio Blanco County. The Wellmans raise Corriedale sheep and often place high in the competition at the National Western Stock Show in Denver with their wool.

Photo by Dan Olsen /
Buy a print of this photo

Cupid, a black face Hampshire sheep on the Wellman Ranch, is a meat type sheep, different from the Corriedale breed used for producing the fine wool the ranch is known for.

Photo by Dan Olsen /
Buy a print of this photo