DNA Test for Bovine Congestive Heart Failure (BCHF) Risk Now Available
A test estimating a genomic prediction for risk for development of Bovine Congestive Heart Failure (BCHF) is now available as an add-on the GGP100K ($9.50) or a standalone test ($19.50).
This is not an IGS prediction but molecular breeding value based on the Simplot and Neogen partnership studying heart failure in feedlot cattle. Because this is a molecular breeding value, results will be based solely on the DNA marker information and will not include other pertinent information that goes into EPD like pedigree, breed, and performance records. The test returns a molecular breeding value for risk of progeny developing heart scores correlated to BCHF (lower number is better). The average accuracy of animals tested is 0.32 (standard deviation 0.09). At this time the results will be reported through an email but not uploaded to Herdbook. Please contact Jackie Atkins at
Seeking Sire Nominations For CMP
Looking to test your top young sire across different environments? Want to enhance accuracy and gain valuable data on your young sire? The Carcass Merit Program (CMP) is for you! Since 1997, the CMP has relied on select cooperator herds to test sires; however, ASA recently added a new CMP testing avenue, which will allow for MORE SIRES to be tested annually. CMP collects vital carcass data on calves, which improves carcass trait predictions and DNA marker predictions for all cattle in the IGS genetic evaluation, and supports breeders in evaluating their young sires and advancing their genetic programs. If you’re interested in nominating a sire, fill out the nomination form at simmental.org (Programs, ASA Programs, CMP).
Sale Catalog Resources Added to ASA Website
Looking to add some information about EPD and indexes, genomics, the IGS multi-breed genetic evaluation, or the benefits of participating in ASA’s programs to your sale catalog? Look no further! ASA has compiled a folder with various resources like logos, camera-ready ads, and answers to frequently asked questions that can be used in sale catalogs or other marketing materials. Visit www.simmental.org and click on “Sale Catalog Resources” under the Marketing tab to view the material.
Hydrops Update: TraitTrac and a Recommended Marketing Statement
ASA has been investigating a developing genetic condition that causes Hydrops pregnancies in a certain line of Simmental genetics. Here are some updates in relation to this research and ASA’s actions/suggestions:
Hydrops has been added to Herdbook’s TraitTrac with WS All Aboard B80 listed as a documented carrier. At this time there are no genetic holds placed on his descendants as there is not a DNA test available yet. Once there is a test, then Hydrops will follow the same policy as other genetic conditions.
Female progeny who are descendants of or are directly sired by WS All Aboard B80 (ASA# 2852207) are at risk for carrying a genetic abnormality called Hydrops. Daughters may develop a serious condition during late gestation that results in excess fluid in the fetal membrane, which typically causes the loss of the calf and occasionally the dam. There is no current test at this time to identify animals carrying this mutation. Research is ongoing regarding the transmission of the abnormality, and to develop a genetic test. Helping our producers navigate this issue is of the utmost importance to us. Therefore, given that there is neither a full understanding of this condition nor a test, careful consideration should be given regarding the question of whether to breed WS All Aboard B80 descendant females until more information is available to breeders.
For questions regarding established WS All Aboard B80 genetics, Hydrops symptoms, reporting an active case, or additional information, please visit the Hydrops Information Center at www.simmental.org or reach out to Jackie Atkins at
Price Adjustment Notification: uLD Genomic Panel, Semen Sample Processing, and TSU Fees
Due to increased costs from ASA’s contracted laboratory, ASA will be raising the price of the ultra-Low Density (uLD or 9K) genomic panel and the processing fees for semen samples, effective immediately. Due to increased costs from the manufacturer, ASA will be raising the price of TSUs from $22/box to $23/box, effective immediately. These price adjustments are essential to cover rising expenses and production costs, and we thank you for your understanding.
If you have any questions, contact the DNA department at
July 15 Deadline Approaching for State Association Programs
With the end of the fiscal year approaching, state associations have until July 15 to submit final cost share and check-off dollar requests. All state association forms and program information can be found at simmental.org. Contact Callie Cooley at
2025 Year-Letter is N
In accordance with the Beef Improvement Federation guidelines, the year-letter animal identification for 2025 is N, and will be followed by P in 2026, and R in 2027. The letter M was the year-letter designated during 2024. Per the BIF guidelines, the following letters are not used: I, O, Q, and V.
DNA Research Programs Continue
The Calf Crop Genomic (CCG) testing project and Cow Herd DNA Roundup (CHR) continue to accept new submissions. The CCG offers 50% off GGP-100K genomic test including parentage ($25 compared to $50 equivalent test) to participating breeders who test their entire calf crop group.
The CHR program also continues to accept new herds. The project tests females at $25 per sample for a GGP100K genomic test. Members must test 90% of their calving-age cows to qualify for the reduced price. When members submit mature cow body weights and body condition scores or hip heights on 90% of their calving-age cows, they will receive a $5 credit to their account for each reported cow. Cows must be 18 months of age or older when mature cow measurements are taken to qualify for the $5 credit. The $5 credit will only be applied once in an animal’s life. For example, if a member received a credit for the phenotypes in 2018 for that cow, they cannot receive another credit for the same cow with a new weight and BCS in 2019.
Additional requirements apply for both programs. Please visit simmental.org, and email
Office Holiday Schedule
Monday, May 26
Memorial Day
Friday, July 4 & Monday, July 7
Fourth of July
Monday, September 1
Labor Day
Thursday, November 27 & Friday, November 28
Thanksgiving
Wednesday, December 24, Thursday, December 25 & Friday, December 26
