Growing up in northwest IA, Rob was introduced to sheep through his grandpa Dick Barth. He registered his first Suffolk in 1979, and Bar-Zel Suffolks was born. His interest in the sheep industry led him to North Dakota State University where he quickly found a job at the sheep unit while pursuing an Animal Science degree and then a Masters degree in Ruminant Nutrition. As fate would have it, while leaving livestock judging practice, he ran into Christy (Harder). Christy was a southwest MN girl who was introduced to sheep through the purchase of two bred ewes as a 4-H project. One of the lambs from those two ewes would go on to become a many-time state and national champion. Her involvement with sheep continued to brew in the showring at a state and national level. Rob and Christy married in 1992 and shortly thereafter moved to Wisconsin where Rob managed the University of Wisconsin - Madison sheep unit. Six years later was a move to northeast IA with Rob teaching Animal Science classes at Hawkeye Community College. Finally, to SD where Bar-Zel Suffolks now resides south of Brookings. Each move allowed the program to grow in quality and in opportunity for merchandising.

Each move blessed us with connections to industry, breed leaders and chances to improve our program. We have had the great fortune to work with some great minds in the sheep industry. Their mentorship has led us in part, to where we are today.

The sheep have no doubt been a lifestyle. But with each passing year we have become more committed to sheep with a purpose for our customers and for the next generation. A commodity with value. We strive to raise performance driven sheep with phenotype. Sheep that are profitable for the commercial producer because the bucks are fertile, and the lambs grow. Sheep that are reproductively sound, have great udders, milk and are good mothers. Sheep with longevity and are efficient forage converters. Sheep that are consistent in appearance and can compete at every level, in every scenario. It is our hope that our customers can have the same positive experiences with Suffolk sheep and these genetics that we have.

Each move also brought a new member to the family and we do not take for granted the blessing we have had being able to raise these kids around livestock, specifically Suffolk sheep. From riding in the back-pack on Christy's back through chores and lambing, to cleaning lambing jugs by hand, to watching lambs being born and the old ewe leave, spending a 20-hour day on sale prep, shearing, fencing, the first National Junior Suffolk show, the green chips of the NAILE …..every moment has been a blessing. They have learned how to work, use their time wisely, look an adult in the eye and speak, and shake the hand of a stranger. They have made friends across the country. There have been tears and frustration and smiles and pride. The sheep have made them better people.