Simmental
& SimGenetics Cattle
Data Driven.
Member Focused.



Announcements
Open Position:
Join IGS and Theta Solutions as a Genetic Data Scientist advancing innovation in livestock genetics worldwide. Help Power the World’s Largest Multi-Breed Genetic Evaluations. (Remote)
Theta Solutions and IGS seek a Genetic Data Scientist to develop and conduct livestock genetic evaluations worldwide. The role includes working across a diverse set of research and development priorities, implementing new and improved genetic models and methodologies, and supporting projects for both Theta Solutions and IGS clients. Multidisciplinary collaboration, multitasking, and stakeholder engagement will be essential.
New Herdsire DNA Testing Requirement
In January 2025, the American Simmental Association membership voted to approve a resolution requiring a GGP-100K genomic panel on all herd bulls/natural service sires born on or after January 1, 2025.
While it will take time for this rule to impact the membership, it is imperative that seedstock providers begin planning. A genomic test has been required on all AI sires for some time; now, any natural service sire born on or after January 1, 2025, must meet the same DNA requirements (high density genomic panel) as AI sires and donor dams before any of their progeny can be registered. The following guidelines can help members, and those applying for registration, prepare for this change.
Updates to 2026 Sire Source
The 2026 Sire Source is expanding its reach and offers a significant opportunity to showcase your bulls. For the first time, the print edition will be mailed to all SimTalk subscribers – over 40,000 ASA members, commercial producers, universities, and industry professionals. This is an increase from the previous 8,000-member reach.
This gives your bull exposure to a nationwide audience of cattle producers actively seeking new genetics. Listings are more than just a mention; they provide direct visibility to potential buyers.
Sign up now and your bull’s listing will:
- Be live on simmental.org for the rest of 2025
- Appear in the full-color 2026 print edition
- Remain accessible online in 2026
Advertising is open to all breeders whose bulls meet the Sire Source guidelines*, regardless of ASA membership.
Contact Nancy Chesterfield (nchesterfield@simmgene.com) or Rebecca Price (rprice@simmgene.com) to get started.
*Bulls must be registered with the ASA and have all required DNA testing completed to qualify as approved AI sires.
Attention:
Hydrops Information Center
ASA Welcomes Dr. Ben Crites
The American Simmental Association is excited to welcome Dr. Ben Crites to the team as the ASA and IGS Director of Commercial and Industry Relations. Ben grew up in southwest Michigan where his family owns a Christmas tree farm. He received his undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and completed his master’s and PhD at the University of Kentucky in Reproductive Physiology.
2025 Golden Book and Lifetime Promoter Awards
The Golden Book Award, ASA’s highest honor, was presented to Erroll and the late Gayle Cook of Walsh, Colorado, and Darrell Stiles of Cushing, Oklahoma, for their pioneering efforts and lifelong commitment to Simmental cattle. Lifetime Promoter Awards were also presented to Terry Burks of Scottsville, Kentucky, and Warren Garrett of Comanche, Texas, for their contributions to promoting and advancing SimGenetics.
Watch the full video highlighting their achievements!

F1 Simbrah Summit
Held in conjunction with the 7P Ranch 50th Annual Production Sale
WHEN: Friday afternoon, October 24, 2025 (exact time TBA)
WHERE: 7P Ranch Headquarters, 10678 FM 757, Winona, TX
WHAT: Experience the F1 Simbrah Summit – an educational event held in conjunction with 7P Ranch’s 50th Annual Production Sale. Learn from top industry experts and gain proven strategies to maximize longevity, profitability, and efficiency in your herd.
Highlights:
Expert Lineup: Insights on genetics, nutrition, and cattle markets from leading industry voices.
Profit Through Science: Proven strategies for increasing ROI through heterosis.
Panel & Q&A: Get answers directly from industry pros.
Dinner & Fellowship: Sponsored by Purina.
SIMGENETICS NEWS DESK
Shafer Honored With 2025 RAAA Industry Service Award
Wade Shafer was recognized with the Red Angus Association of America’s 2025 Industry Service Award during the 72nd Annual National Red An...
ASA Welcomes Dr. Ben Crites
The American Simmental Association is excited to welcome Dr. Ben Crites to the team as the ASA and IGS Director of Commercial and Industry Relation...
Golden Book Award Winners & Lifetime Promoters 2025
Congratulations to all of the well-deserving award recipients whose achievements and contributions to the American Simmental Association were recen...