Association Outlook

Do it Now and Be Ready!

There have been changes that will affect all Shorthorn Breeders and I want to address these new rules and/or requirements at this time. We at ASA do not want you to be blindsided with issues next year.

Many of you are turning bulls out in the pasture now or will be doing so soon. If that pasture bull or herd sire is a yearling, born after Jan. 1, 2022, you must have a DNA 100K/parentage test done on him to make him eligible to register calves sired by him. Some breeders have asked if this rule means you must DNA test all your bull calves. No, you do not. The only bulls requiring testing are ones that are herd sires and/ or pasture bulls you plan on using for natural service, and/or the regular DNA testing for AI Sire Qualifications.

The requirements are for bulls born after Jan. 1, 2022, that are used for breeding cows naturally – these bulls must be DNA tested for genomics and parentage. The test requirements are for the 100K test, which currently includes both genomics and parentage. The cost is $55.00. We have seen an increase in animals that do not parentage check for various reasons. Having the parentage on file will increase efficiency if parentage issues occur and as an added bonus, more genomic markers will be on file for the gnomically enhanced EPDs making that data even more accurate.

If you have a bull turned out or plan to turn out a bull born after Jan. 1, 2022, please get a DNA sample on him ASAP. Obtain the DNA sample now, just in case the bull is not available for a sample later. Next year when the resulting calves are born, registering those calves will be much easier. If the sire is not DNA tested for 100K/parentage, each resulting calf will require the same test before it can be registered.

I encourage you to take the time now and ensure you have herd sires DNA tested before they sire any calves. You will be glad you did this now instead of next year when you are trying to register the resulting calves. This is a reminder for you to get this done on your turnout bulls! Please look for the complete ruling on the Update Page. There are also new requirements for duel registering Milking Shorthorns and Lincoln Reds with the ASA - DNA testing is also required for them. See that rule in the News & Notes section.

The importance of genomics to our breed and the industry has become a mandate for many buyers. The more cattle with genomics and performance data recorded increases the accuracy of gnomically enhanced EPDs. They have a valid and honest value in our breed and the industry today. Knowing the animal’s genetic direction is valuable. This process reveals how the mating is genetically blended and what we should expect from that mating’s production record.

making environment. It is essential for Shorthorn breeders to have available the proper information.

If you have a bull turned out or plan to turn out a bull born after Jan. 1, 2022, please get a DNA sample on him ASAP.

Also, the marketplace wants to know if there are any risks for genetic conditions. Buyers are now more sophisticated, have questions and want the ability to research the product they are considering. More information means less unknowns or risks to the buyer and more answers result in better and quicker decisions to do business.

To any of the older established breeders: Please remember we have had strong new membership numbers joining ASA for several years. These new breeders have a different perspective and understanding of the importance of doing their homework before spending money. They are from a much more data-driven, decision-

On a related subject, a new show concept called the Shorthorn E.D.G.E. (Exposition Driving Genetic Excellence) Show will be launched at the 2024 Cattlemen’s Congress. Three judges will evaluate and score the EPD performance information and the physical phenotype separately, then the two scores will be combined to determine a class winner. A committee was appointed by the ASA Board to work on this special show concept. The ASA Board approved their recommendations. A couple of requirements are that all animals participating must have Gnomically Enhanced EPDS, a Birth Weight, and Weaning Weight recorded. If you would like to participate in the Shorthorn E.D.G.E. Show, have those animals’ DNA tested for 100K now. It takes about 6 weeks to complete a test, so think ahead and start testing now. Many breeders are starting to do 100K testing on their entire calf crop because of the demand and value.

Our industry is moving to a more datadriven value-added product from birth to the consumer. We must be prepared for this and provide the information that makes Shorthorn cattle more valuable!