Herbold Family
Dana and Jennifer Herbold purchased their 42-acre farm in 2025 with the goal of raising grass-fed and finished livestock breeds well-suited to Minnesota. They invested in fencing, improved soil nutrients and organic matter, and developed a rotational grazing system. Their operation began with Scottish Highland cattle and Icelandic sheep, and they also installed a high tunnel to grow vegetables.
Today, the Herbolds raise a herd of Normande cattle for beef. In addition to Icelandic sheep, they have added heritage breeds, including Clun Forest and Shetland, along with Romney and Blue-Faced Leicester sheep. Their high tunnel produces vegetables as well as plants used to naturally dye the wool they raise. They work with three mills to process their fiber, which is sold at fiber festivals throughout Minnesota and on their website, thelayzeefarmer.com.
The Herbolds support their community by mentoring new shepherds and teaching sheep handling during shearing. Jennifer also volunteers annually at the Minnesota State Fair, demonstrating wool projects in the Sheep Barn and at the Baa Booth.