Mike Mickelson Named 2016 Outstanding Rancher

The Sonoma County Fair Board and members of the local ranching industry have selected Mike Mickelson of Petaluma as the 2016 Outstanding North Bay Rancher and the recipient of the J.W. Jamison Perpetual Trophy. Petaluma’s Mickelson is in the business of breeding and raising show lambs, but at heart he’s in the business of cultivating responsible young adults. Through his Mickelson Club Lambs, he provides project lambs and breeding stock for 4-H and FFA members to show at fairs from Humboldt County to San Diego. Each year, these lambs touch dozens of young lives, sharing the rich lessons of farming and furthering Sonoma County’s agricultural tradition for the next generation.

“It’s gratifying to see these kids learn what it takes to care for their animals,” says Mickelson, who also assists the Hanna Boys Center with its sheep program. “It's really rewarding to see students that have never touched an animal before, become comfortable around their lambs and proud of their accomplishments once they get to the Fair,” he adds.

Some of Mickelson’s earliest memories are of helping out on this grandfather’s Two Rock Valley ranch. He grew up on the west side of Petaluma and was blessed to have high school Ag teacher Bill King, who encouraged him to raise market lambs for the Fair and to start a registered sheep breeding program. Mickelson and his three brothers spent a good part of their young lives raising and showing animals at local and state fairs.

After earning an Associate Science Degree from Santa Rosa Junior College, Mickelson went to work for the California Department of Forestry & Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). He retired in 2010 as a Battalion Chief.

Throughout his life, Mickelson has continued to breed and raise sheep. He and his wife, Carolyn and their daughter, Kristy, currently run 150 brood and replacement ewes. Both of his children, Brian and Kristy, showed market lambs in 4-H and FFA while growing up. Mickelson is a 15-year 4-H sheep leader, has served on the Sonoma County Fair’s sheep advisory group, and is the current Vice President of the Sonoma County Sheep Breeders Association.

“The North Bay agricultural community has been an important part my family's life, says Mickelson. “We’ve been fortunate to meet and work with some great kids and their families,” he says.

The Sonoma County Fair is honored to present the 2016 Outstanding North Bay Rancher award to Mike Mickelson. Mickelson was celebrated during the Sonoma County Fair’s annual awards ceremony held Wednesday, May 25 at the Fairgrounds and received the J.W. Jamison Perpetual Trophy. He will also be recognized on Farmer’s Day at the Fair, Sunday, July 24 in Chris Beck Arena.

Movie magic abounds at the 2016 Sonoma County Fair, and the excitement is mounting for “Lights, Camera, Fair!” Get ready to be entertained from July 22 – August 7 (closed on Mondays). Enjoy our new Community Concert Series, the thrill of live horse racing, a giant carnival, the “Sonoma Cinema” themed Hall of Flowers, live entertainment, delicious food, fun contests, games and more! For details, visit SonomaCountyFair.com or call (707) 545-4200. Like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram and Twitter to keep up with the fun. See you at the Fair!