The Link
Sire registration paper opens new doors for your calves.
The registration paper is the key to unlocking new doors.
I’m not a world traveler, but Real ID had me thinking I should get a passport in the event Missouri didn’t get on the boat to be able to use our driver’s license to fly. It definitely took some time and effort to find all the paperwork I needed to get the task accomplished. After it was all said and done, it really wasn’t that difficult. It was just getting in the mindset to do it. Getting your AngusLinkSM enrollment is similar. Just set some time aside and do it.
This past month has been busy with producers enrolling in our bundled Process Verified Program (PVP) AngusLink. They have been capitalizing on the AngusVerified claim and receiving the optional Genetic Merit Scorecard® (GMS). They know value-added PVPs and Angus genetics can reap some rewards on sale day. I have heard from several commercial producers who have been frustrated when trying to complete their enrollment, after finding their bull supplier didn’t transfer the registration papers.
To enroll in the AngusVerified claim, all the Angus bulls should be registered and in your American Angus Association herd inventory. Whether you plan to enroll in AngusLink or not, ask your seedstock supplier to transfer the registration of the bulls you purchase to you. You may not plan to enroll today, but you may enroll next year. Ask for the registration paper!
The registration paper includes much more than just the name of the bull. It is a passport to a world of information and services provided by the American Angus Association.
The world is definitely changing. Those changes mean Angus genetics are in demand. Angus calves usually gain and grade much better than those of other breeds. Many of the other breeds have tried to imitate Angus by changing colors. Why wouldn’t a potential buyer want to know a little more about the calves you are selling to ensure they are truly Angus?
The registration paper includes much more than just the name of the bull. It is a passport to a world of information and services provided by the American Angus Association.
When calves enter the sale ring, buyers have to determine quickly how much better your Angus genetics are compared to other black-hided calves. The AngusVerified claim lists the registered Angus bulls you have used. This definitely can help buyers make decisions.
The Genetic Merit Scorecard’s three scores give potential buyers an accurate genetic snapshot of the calves you are marketing. Genetic Merit Scores are made up of a Beef Score, a Feedlot Score and a Grid Score, each presented on an index basis. The scores range from 1 to 200, with 100 being the industry average score. Each of the scores — Beef, Grid and Feedlot — uses the same dollar value indexes ($Values) from the powerful American Angus Association database. The Genetic Merit Scores will not fluctuate year over year. It is easy to understand the scoring system because 100 will continue to be the average score, while 200 will always be the top score.
The Genetic Merit Scores are a great way for you to benchmark your calf crop each year. Plus, it is a good springboard for a conversation with your seedstock provider on the goals of your program. What type of bulls and what type of expected progeny differences (EPDs) are important for your operation and environment? Remember, if you are retaining replacement heifers, score-climbing may not be the best fit for your program. Moderate scores will still allow a good portion of your calf crop to grade and gain well.
AngusLink is a great marketing tool that is offered by the American Angus Association. Commercial producers are the backbone of it. You have access to some of the best genetics any breed has to offer to build the best calf on the market today. Give your calves the AngusLink verification certificate to take them to places they have not been before, by calling the Commercial Programs Department today at 816-383-5100.
Editor’s note: Ginette Gottswiller is the director of verification services for the American Angus Association.
Angus Proud
In this Angus Proud series, Editorial Intern Jessica Wesson provides insights into how producers across the country use Angus genetics in their respective environments.
Angus Proud: Bubba Crosby
Fall-calving Georgia herd uses quality and co-ops to market calves.
Angus Proud: Jim Moore
Arkansas operation retains ownership through feeding and values carcass data.
Angus Proud: Les Shaw
South Dakota operation manages winter with preparation and bull selection.
Angus Proud: Jeremy Stevens
Nebraska operation is self-sufficient for feedstuffs despite sandy soil.
