by Dr. Elizabeth Dressler, ASA Lead Geneticist
I’m excited to introduce myself to the Register readership, as I might be a new face for many of you. I’m Dr. Elizabeth Dressler, and I joined the American Simmental Association (ASA) six months ago as the Lead Geneticist.
Looking back on my first six months on the job, it has been a busy, rewarding, and productive start. I am enjoying this opportunity to work on behalf of ASA members every day.
The International Genetic Solutions (IGS) and ASA science teams have accomplished many things in the past six months and we have several other exciting developments to share throughout 2026. Much of this work reflects years of membership commitment to data collection, allowing ASA to provide genetic tools that are practical, economically relevant, and grounded in science. A major area of focus over the past several years has been new trait development, and many of those efforts will come to fruition in 2026 for ASA members. Earlier this year, ASA released two new expected progeny differences (EPD): mature weight (MW) and cow energy requirements (CER). These EPD give producers additional insight into cow size, energy requirements, and overall efficiency. Both traits have a direct economic impact on cow salvage value and feed costs,
particularly as producers balance performance goals with rising input costs. If you are not currently submitting MW phenotypes, I encourage you to consider doing so. Phenotypes are the foundation of any genetic evaluation. By submitting phenotypes, you provide the critical information that fuels the accuracy and predictive power of EPD.
Another new EPD that members can look forward to is heifer pregnancy. The heifer pregnancy EPD is currently in the testing and validation phase, and ASA anticipates releasing this EPD later this year. Reproductive success has a direct impact on your bottom line, and this EPD will provide ASA membership with a tool to make informed selection decisions. This trait is especially valuable when managing replacement females and improving long-term herd productivity. ASA’s Total Herd Enrollment (THE) program has been pivotal in providing the comprehensive reproductive data necessary for the development of this EPD.
Alongside new trait development, the IGS genetic evaluation is currently undergoing a series of updates. Over the last couple of years, these updates have been implemented to the carcass weight/ribeye area, growth, calving ease, and docility evaluations. These updates are a part of the routine maintenance that ensures ASA continues to use the most current science and technology available, while offering the most accurate predictions possible. Looking ahead, similar updates will be applied to the marbling/backfat and stayability evaluations in the future.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role so far has been meeting ASA members and seeing how genetic information is applied in decision-making to improve beef production. I look forward to meeting many more of you in the future. As I reflect on my first six months, I’m encouraged by the direction we’re headed and excited for what’s to come. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions at
