How do I register a performance animal?
The opportunity exists to request a registration for an animal 5 different ways. Each of the data sheets (calving, weaning, & yearling) have a section on the right-hand side for registration requirements. Once calving data has been entered into our system, you can request pre-printed registration forms (PPA's). You can make this request on the top of the calving sheet prior to it's submission, if desired. PPA's are not done individually but instead on all your animals. Also, you can fill in a blank application form to register an animal. Please note unless specified on the application, animals registered by individual applications are not activated in performance unless they are also on your performance sheets as well.
What if I don't know whether my animal should be tested by blood or DNA?
If the animal is being registered as a Fullblood and you are unsure, the office staff will check on your behalf and the right lab kit will be mailed to you, according to the office records.
If the animal is to be tested because it is a HERDSIRE please indicate this and the test will automatically be DNA. The association moved to DNA testing of all calves born after Jan 1, 2000.
How do I fill in information on recipient cows?
Under the Breeding column there are boxes for recip information. Indicate both "AI" for Artificial insemination and "E" for Embryo. If the recipient cow has a tattoo or tag number it should be entered under Recip Tag. i.e. "23F" or "ZZZ 23F". Age should be entered according to the last 2 digits of the year she was born. i.e. born May 5, 1995. enter "95" DO NOT enter 6yrs. Recipient breed code is based on her sire and dam. i.e. the sire is a limousin and the dam is a simmental. enter "LMSM". If there is sufficient information on recipient cows it is calculated in the EPD evaluation.
How should I enter management groups?
A management group is based on how you managed the animals. Each calf must be given equal opportunity to perform. Groups are separated into different numbers (1,2,3) based on things like: good vs. poor pasture, show cattle vs. non-show, sick or injured vs. no health complications, etc. It is the breeders responsibility to separate the calf crop into different groups based on difference in management and nutrition which calves may be exposed to from shortly afterbirth to weaning age. The criteria for age ranges can be found under weaning and yearling data.
What is a contemporary group?
A contemporary group is a group of cattle of the same sex and percentage blood, that were born within a 90 day period and have been managed alike and weighed on the same date (except for birth). The contemporary group is calculated by the computer system, based on performance data submitted by the breeder.