These sheep, said Bates, come from an original herd that survived the crash of sheep numbers back in the early uranium days in the 1950s and 1960s, and diseases brought in by domestic sheep.

For years, the number of desert sheep increased, eventually getting to a point where there were enough sheep to begin a transplant program.

About five years ago, said Bates, numbers started to stabilize.

"Right now the sheep are holding their own. We've had a few disease issues. Also, all the outdoor recreation going on in the area and with the oil and gas exploration, the sheep are being pushed into suboptimal habitat."

Which, he continued, "Means if we are not vigilant in our management of this species, we could loose it."

Currently, there are roughly 3,500 desert bighorn and 1,500 Rocky Mountain and California bighorn in the state. The desert bighorn are the smaller of the sheep. A desert ram will weigh about 125 pounds, a Rocky Mountain ram about 250 and a California ram somewhere between the two.

What has been one of the most viewed herds, the Town Herd is often seen on the outskirts of Moab near the entrance to Arches National Park.

Some days upward of a dozen sheep can be seen feeding along the highway, and it all began with one ewe.

In 1985, six sheep were trapped in Canyonlands National Park and released in a remote area of Arches. Within days a single ewe with a small lamb left the group deep inside the park and was spotted along the road north of town. The next year she showed up with a new lamb and a yearling, and the next with a male suitor.

Over time more ewes came, followed by more rams.

Those planning to attend one of the two festivals are encouraged to dress for the out-of-doors and bring along binoculars or a spotting scope along with snacks, drinks and a camera.

For information on the Moab event contact Brent Stettler at 435-613-3707 or visit brentstettler@utah.gov, and for information on the Provo event call the DWR's Central Region office at 801-491-5678.

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E-mail: grass@desnews.com