by Molly Diefenbach, director of DNA Services
As director of DNA Services for the American Simmental Association, I’m thrilled to share a few updates from our department and highlight the ways ASA continues to add value for members through DNA testing and data contribution to the world’s largest multi-breed genetic evaluation.
From new team members to successful outreach events, it’s been a busy and rewarding summer!
In June, we welcomed Karolina Perkins to the DNA Services team. A recent graduate from the University of Wyoming who now calls Montana home, Karolina will play a key role in supporting members with their DNA orders and questions, and helping us to continue providing accurate and timely results — all while keeping member service a top priority. I also look forward to collaborating with ASA’s incoming geneticist, Dr. Elizabeth Dressler, on new research projects and opportunities. There’s no doubt that these two new additions to our Association will allow us to expand research efforts that will benefit our members in all facets of the industry, across all corners of the country.
The DNA collection clinic at this summer’s National Classic in Madison, Wisconsin, was another success. Now in its second
year, the clinic lays the groundwork for our junior members to build confidence in utilizing DNA technology for future herd management and breed improvement. I had the opportunity to speak on ASA’s testing options, explain the ordering process, and how to interpret those results when they come back in a few weeks. It was encouraging to see so many junior members participate in this program by asking questions and engaging in the sample collection in the barns. All those facets of the industry I mentioned earlier? Genomics and parent verification have a strong place in the show world, too!
Back in the office, our department continues to focus on both the efficiency and reliability of DNA testing. ASA member adoption of DNA testing has continued to grow, with sample numbers increasing annually. We’ve seen a strong adoption of tissue sampling units (TSUs), which make DNA collection simpler, testing turnaround time faster, and failure rate lower. DNA is a foundation that supports so many of ASA’s successful programs — from whole herd reporting to ensuring the validity of a show heifer’s pedigree. Collaboration across departments (and even foreign breed associations!) is key, and it’s exciting to see how DNA strengthens ASA’s ability to deliver trustworthy information and cutting-edge tools. Our Calf Crop Genomics (CCG) program continues to gain momentum, with its lower price point in exchange for sampling 90% of a calf crop (male, female, or combined), plus additional rebates for phenotypic data reporting. As we prepare for the 2025 bull calves to grow up under the new walking sire DNA rule, we encourage our members to take advantage of programs like CCG.
Finally, I want to extend a thank you to all our members for your continued trust in ASA’s DNA services. Our team is here to support you, whether you’re new to DNA or looking for ways to take your herd to the next level through genomic testing. Our priority is helping our members see the return on investment that both trait and genomic testing will ultimately bring to their programs, so please don’t hesitate to reach out with questions to
