Sheep farmer Outi Sirola

I have been farming sheep since 1994. I started my farming career in 1990, when we bought my parent's farm. Our family includes my husband Jari, who works outside the farm, and our children Laura, Juho, Reetta and Roosa.

I initially trained as a farmer and specialised in sheep farming at the adult education centre of North Karelia. I also acquired a qualification in information technology on their IT for Agriculture -course. As a part time occupation I provide IT support for local farmers, and represent Suonentieto Ltd's Maatilaneuvos-software in the area of Mid Karelia.

Our farm

Our farm, specialising in Oxford Down mutton breed, is situated in North Karelia, in the beautiful village of Tohmajärvi about 60 km south of Joensuu.

In addition to breeding animals, we produce lamb meat, wool, hides and on a small scale some derivatives from these raw products.

We can also offer organic lawn treatment services for organisations, businesses and individuals. Oxford Down sheep will take care of your lawn quietly and conscientiously.

Mutton sheep breeding since 1994

The first Oxford Down sheep were delivered to our farm in 1994. Almost overnight livestock substituted our main produce, grain.

Our current flock includes 120 superb, large-framed ewes of six different pedigrees. Each year we select some rams for our own breeding stock and they represent the top of the range in their muscularity. The total number of rams is greater, however, as we always reserve about ten breeding rams for trading. A sufficient number of rams is necessary for both breeding and meat production purposes in order to avoid inbreeding and secure healthy and productive individuals.

We also sell ewes throughout the year, but the best selection is available at the end of the summer when the spring-lambs are old enough to be sold.