The Trailing Of The Sheep Festival Preserves Idaho's Woolly Legacy

Domesticated sheep were brought to Southwest Idaho in the 1860's and helped support the state's economy as mining began to drop off in the late 19th century. The industry attracted herders from all over the globe and helped develop the fabric of Idaho's diverse population. In 1997, an event was created to celebrate the legacy of sheepherding in Idaho and from October 10 through 14, the Trailing of the Sheep Festival will take place in Hailey, Ketchum and Sun Valley. Idaho Matters speaks with the founders of the festival about the unique dimension sheep ad to Idaho's history and economy.