OUR STORY
Generations of Family Farms
Ryan & Desiree Visser are both from multi-generation family dairies, originating in The Netherlands, Switzerland, and Germany, and are partners in family dairies and raising crops in Southern Idaho.
With their two boys, Carson and Case, they live in the country, enjoying motorsports, family outdoor adventures, and, of course, raising farm animals.
Desiree is a graphic designer, teaches art and paints while the boys play sports, ride dirt bikes, rzrs and snowmobiles, and can fix anything with wheels.
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ABOUT THE VALAIS CHALET
The dream of a Valais Chalet began many years ago on a family trip to Switzerland to sightsee and visit relatives, when Desiree was fascinated by the Disney-like appearance and friendly demeanor of the mysterious sheep herds grazing near the Matterhorn.
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While Ryan & Desiree were building an ag shop on their property a few years ago, they happened across a contractor who also worked with sheep, and a conversation began about the Valais Blacknose Breed. Within days, they acquired an F2 Ewe, Stella, and an F3 Ram, George, from a Valais Blacknose Sheep breed-up program and quickly fell in love with their quirky looks and personalities.
Before a year had passed, they were formulating a business plan and expecting some of the first fullblood Valais Blacknose Sheep in the United States, from embryos purchased from Europe. Seven beautiful sheep arrived in the spring of 2024, and the Valais Chalet was born. They look forward increasing their flock and experience as shepherds and establishing the Valais Chalet as a
premier US Valais Breeder!
ABOUT THE BREED
The Valais Blacknose Sheep breed is known for its unique appearance and friendly nature. Originating from the Swiss canton of Valais, this breed is known for its distinctive black coat and prominent white facial features, giving it a friendly and unique look. They are often called "the World's Cutest Sheep."
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Valais Blacknose Sheep are known for their friendly and curious nature, their intelligence and ease of handling, and their strong flocking instincts, making them excellent candidates for pasture management. They are easily trained and respond quickly to voice commands.
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The Valais Blacknose Sheep is primarily bred for its wool. Their fleece is known for its fineness and quality, making it highly sought after by fiber artists, spinners, and knitters.
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