DNA Testing Requirements for Herdsires
In January, ASA membership voted to require a DNA test (GGP-100K genomic panel) on all herd bulls/natural service sires born on or after January 1, 2025.
This new rule mimics the current DNA requirement for AI sires and donor dams.
Although the rule change isn’t immediately affecting membership, it is never too early to prepare. By collecting and submitting DNA samples on bull calves born this spring and beyond if they'll go on to sire registered calves, producers can avoid future issues.
ASA Conducts Internal Parentage Audit
As part of our ongoing commitment to industry’s best practices and continuous improvement, ASA is conducting an audit of its DNA parentage verification processes. This effort includes a review of historical parentage records to ensure consistency and reliability as our database continues to evolve with additional testing over time.
Through this audit, we identified a small number of parentage inconsistencies affecting a limited fraction of DNA-tested animals. These cases primarily stem from historical practices in which parentage was verified at a single point in time, often against only one parent, and subsequent additions of a second parent’s DNA did not automatically trigger re-verification. Importantly, this review has no impact on other DNA-based services. Genomically enhanced EPD and trait testing remain unaffected.
If any of your animals are involved in this review, you will be contacted directly by the ASA DNA team with specific information and recommended next steps. The vast majority of these cases are straightforward and can be resolved through standard collaboration, and we are confident in reaching appropriate outcomes.
Members are encouraged to ensure their contact information is current, including email address, mailing address, and phone numbers on all associated accounts, so that ASA staff can communicate efficiently if needed. Keeping this information up-to-date helps ensure timely and accurate communication. If you have questions, please feel free to contact the ASA office at 406-587-4531 and select Option 1.
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
Third Quarter Check-Off Dollars Available
March 31 marked the end of the third quarter in ASA’s fiscal year. State associations wishing to claim their third quarter check-off dollars can do so at any time by visiting simmental.org and completing the “Promotional Check-off Dollars Request Form” found in the Membership/State Association section. Remember that ASA’s fiscal year ends on June 30. State associations have until July 15 to submit final cost share and check-off dollar requests. Contact
2026 Year-Letter is P
In accordance with the Beef Improvement Federation guidelines, the year- letter animal identification for 2026 is P, and will be followed by R in 2027, and S in 2028. The letter N was the year-letter designated during 2025. Per BIF guidelines, the following letters are not used: I, O, Q, and V.
Office Holiday Schedule
Friday, April 3
Spring Holiday Monday, May 25
Memorial Day Friday, July 3
Fourth of July Monday, September 7
Labor Day
Thursday, November 26 & Friday, November 27
Thanksgiving
Wednesday, December 23, Thursday, December 24 & Friday, December 25
Christmas .
