by Greg Walthall, South Central Region
Stockmen, scientists, promoters, and marketers
As of this Viewpoint, spring has made its appearance for most of the country. With that, the tasks are changing from calving to breeding, feeding to planting, and keeping an eye on the development of this year’s calf crop. Did that sire group meet our expectations? What do we change to make next year even better?
As Simmental breeders and as an Association, what are our long-term goals? And how do we look at our place within the industry? Just like the view of a calf crop, crop production, and hay production, those of us in agriculture are always looking down the road as to how to make better choices to increase productivity and profit!
As a member of the ASA Board of Trustees, it’s always in the back of my mind as to what the ASA can do or develop to the benefit of the membership. Without a doubt, all of us are experiencing record sales, for both registered and commercial cattle. The responsibility, and expectations, may have changed because of this. Marketing doesn’t have to be the main focus, as it’s been in the past. The Simmental breed’s significance within the American cow herd is the highest level it’s ever been. My goal — and I know I speak for the Board as well — is to focus on serving you
better than before. Faster, better service, and the development of new, better EPD for you to utilize in your program!
A new heifer pregnancy EPD was just introduced, which is another tool for you to adapt into your operation, if applicable. It has just been announced that our past provider of genomics services, Neogen, is being sold to Zoetis. This is of course a significant change, and our focus will always be to streamline the process with the goal of having a quicker turnaround, easier process, and ensuring that testing is as economical as possible. As this change materializes, the ASA Board of Trustees will prioritize keeping the membership informed.
As of the publishing of this Viewpoint, the Board will have just met in Bozeman for our annual April meetings. It’s routinely the busiest meeting we have — our sleeves get rolled up and we do our most work. I’m sure many of you are receiving eNews in your emails. You will be aware of the Board’s work soon after! It’s been a great way of keeping the membership as current as possible.
As per the title of my Viewpoint, the ASA membership is made up of people who either share those roles in the operation, or for some, an individual is responsible for all of them. The ASA, since its formation, has been a great place for great cattle and great people to achieve the optimum.
Whatever hat you wear, and whatever your requirements, this Board of Trustees is working for you! .
