by Lilly Platts
PA Recognizes Dedicated and Driven Data-Reporting Operations
For seventeen years, the Performance Advocate Program (PA) has recognized cattle producers who maintain a commitment to data reporting. The 2026 program marked the seventh year under new guidelines, developed to identify the dedicated data reporting that fuels ASA’s genetic evaluation. A Driven Performance Advocate submits records on at least 10 of the 14 traits, and 90% of the contemporary group. A Dedicated Performance Advocate submits records on 90% of the contemporary group, and records on 8 of the 14 traits. Producers listed here are for the fall 2024 and spring 2025 calf crops. The operations featured below represent a selection of the operations that qualified as Performance Advocates.
by Lilly Platts
Jordan and Amy Valigura are first-generation producers from central New Mexico. The young couple has been quick to pivot, learn about the business, and take advantage of the tools available to them. Valigura Simmental is dedicated to tracking and submitting data, and qualified to be an ASA Performance Advocate for the Spring 2025 season.
by Dr. Ben Crites, Director of Commercial and Industry Relations
The best cow isn’t necessarily the one that produces the biggest calf. She is the cow that consistently and efficiently converts the resources available to her into a marketable calf, breeds back quickly, calves early in the calving season, and does it profitably — year after year.
by Dr. Jon DeClerck, ASA EVP
As we have shared more information about the updated $API and $TI, three changes have received a lot of attention: $API places downward pressure on mature cow weight, carcass weight carries more relative emphasis, and marbling carries less relative emphasis than before.
by Rose Oie
The American Simmental Association’s 2026 Fall Focus brought ASA members, staff, and trustees together in Bozeman, Montana, August 28 through September 1. Over the five days, attendees moved through mixed farm tours, a full day of industry ducation, a recognition dinner with some real breed history in the room, and the ASA Board of Trustees fall board meeting.