Makenzie Christensen

Makenzie Christensen, Tunis sheep, Riceville, IA, raises a small flock in Mitchell County and the Upper Iowa River valley near Mason City. She has been breeding Tunis sheep for several years, holds membership in the National Tunis Sheep Association, and participates in state scrapie programs along with routine FAMACHA and fecal egg count monitoring to support flock health.

Her sheep graze rotationally on well-managed pasture, benefiting both animal welfare and soil health, and lambs receive daily handling from birth to encourage calm temperaments and easy adaptation to new environments. The farm marks the lambing season with careful oversight, ensuring each newborn receives timely colostrum and supportive early care.

Careful selection prioritizes balanced wool and meat traits that honor the breed’s dual-purpose history, and the flock regularly features at local agricultural fairs and workshops. Makenzie’s commitment to clear record-keeping and open communication has earned positive feedback from neighbors and fellow breeders.