American Simmental Association

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Simmental and Red Angus share resources for joint EPDs

-Multi-breed genetic evaluation will increase reliability of growth and carcass trait EPDs:

Future National Cattle Evaluations will break new ground for the Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) and American Simmental Association (ASA) as the two breeds combine resources for multi-breed genetic evaluation (MBGE) of their growth and carcass trait EPDs. Both breed associations share the belief that their competitive position is enhanced through this cooperation.

Initially, growth and carcass EPDs will be calculated on the ASA/RAAA pooled dataset, utilizing the ASA MBGE model, while reproduction predictions will be produced on single breed models. Both breeds will maintain their relationship with Colorado State University (CSU) with Red Angus receiving Calving Ease, Heifer Pregnancy, Stayability and Maintenance Energy EPDs, and Simmental receiving Stayability EPDs. (For the complete news release, click here )

Genetic Defect Testing

New Genetic Monitoring Policy

The Association's new genetic monitoring policy went into effect June 1. The genetic status is reported on ASA's Herdbook Website for each animal using color codes to help identify the status. In addition to identifying animals that are tested free and tested carrier for a genetic defect, animals are identified if they have a carrier in their lineage and if they come from a population with a risk for that defect.

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Before new progeny can be reported, all sires and donor dams must be tested for a genetic defect if they have a carrier in their lineage or come from a risk population for that genetic defect and have not already been tested. The Association is currently monitoring five genetic defects: Curly calf (AM), Osteopetrosis (OP), Tibial Hemimelia (TH) and Pulmonary Hypoplasia with Anasarca (PHA) and Neuropathic Hydrocephalus (NH).