Member Services Bulletin - by Halla Pfeiff

Spring Heifer Exposure Due First Week of November Spring Heifer Exposure information is due on Friday, Nov. 5 and is one of the simplest data sets to report other than herd inventories. Heifer exposure data is a tool used to enhance the accuracy of the HPG EPD.

What should be reported regarding heifer exposure? Yearling heifers from 9 to 17 months of age that appear on the prelisted spring inventory and will be entering the herd inventory and are subject to THR assessments in 2022. The information to report is:

• Breeding season dates – beginning and end dates. We must have both to accept data.

• Exposure information – Yes or No

• Contemporary group designation

• Disposal information (if applies)

Updated Video Tutorials Coming Soon When REDSPro was released in 2017, a set of video tutorials came along with it to help guide members through RAAA processes. Over the years, modifications and enhancements have been created for overall efficiencies. With that, a new set of video tutorials will be coming soon. Please be aware these will be released in sections over time. The first set of new tutorials will cover warnings and errors regarding data submissions. All tutorials can be found via REDSPro > announcements tab after member login.

Is DNA On Your Mind? We Recommend Submitting Now Sample Collection Fall weaning consistently presents itself as a prime opportunity to collect DNA samples as those young animals are already being worked. However, DNA is an operational task that must be pre-planned to make sure materials are gathered in time, meaning collection kits are ordered and arrived on location. These kits can be requested at any time

of the year from RAAA’s DNA department. We have Allflex Tissue Sampling Units and applicators, plus blood and hair cards in inventory for requests based on animal head counts. In this case, shipping time consumes the most time.

Sample Submission Samples are sent off to the lab for processing at least two times a week. However, for RAAA to be able to submit samples to the lab for processing, a couple of items must be compiled and completed.

1. DNA order form is filled out properly. Each animal must be listed on the order form with proper ID, barcode and test marked.

2. DNA order form is signed, releasing samples to RAAA.

3. Payment in full is received. This can be via check or credit card. Submitting payment at time of submission is preferred. If staff have to reach out after samples arrive, this can delay the submission process.

After samples are submitted and received at the lab, results will be returned in 20 business days.

Busy season has officially arrived for DNA submissions and we recommend submitting your information months ahead of the sale season. •

New Member Orientation Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021 11 a.m. MST

All members welcomed and encouraged to join us!

Learn about:

• Overview of RAAA mission and vision statement, core policies and board of directors

• Definitions and explanations of each phase of Total Herd Reporting

• Deadlines and steps for reporting data

• Review of resources and tools available to each member, such as the marketing team and their services, advertising opportunities and junior activities.

https://meetings.ringcentral.com/j/1485304728 or Dial in +1 (773) 2319226 Meeting ID: 148 530 4728