In which region are most sheep raised in the United States?

The Southwestern states are recognized as the primary region for sheep production in the United States due to several favorable factors. The climate in these states, which often includes arid and semi-arid conditions, aligns well with the needs of sheep farming. The availability of extensive grazing lands enables ranchers to raise large flocks, as sheep are well-suited to thrive in drier environments.

Moreover, the Southwestern states benefit from established sheep farming practices and infrastructure. Regions in states like Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona have a long history of sheep production, particularly for meat, wool, and lambing operations. This regional specialization leads to greater efficiency and expertise in sheep husbandry, further solidifying their position as the leading area for sheep raising in the country.

In contrast, the other regions like the Northeastern, Midwestern, and Southeastern states may have sheep production, but the numbers and scale of operations are typically not as significant as those found in the Southwest. For instance, while some sheep are raised in these other areas, factors such as climate, land use, and historical farming practices contribute to lower overall sheep population densities compared to the Southwest.