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Insights into the IGS Calving Ease Update
Why Updates Happen
Genetic evaluations evolve because science evolves. Just like your phone or computer receives software upgrades, our tools improve as new data and better methodology become available.
Past approaches weren’t wrong—today’s tools are simply more effective.
Routine updates like this are standard across breed associations and the beef industry. Every major genetic evaluation employs comparable updates as part of their ongoing efforts to remain competitive and ensure the highest degree of accuracy. Our goal with updates is always the same: To improve the predictive power of International Genetic Solutions (IGS) EPD.
Open Position:
Join IGS and Theta Solutions as a Genetic Data Scientist advancing innovation in livestock genetics worldwide. Help Power the World’s Largest Multi-Breed Genetic Evaluations. (Remote)
Theta Solutions and IGS seek a Genetic Data Scientist to develop and conduct livestock genetic evaluations worldwide. The role includes working across a diverse set of research and development priorities, implementing new and improved genetic models and methodologies, and supporting projects for both Theta Solutions and IGS clients. Multidisciplinary collaboration, multitasking, and stakeholder engagement will be essential.
New Herdsire DNA Testing Requirement
In January 2025, the American Simmental Association membership voted to approve a resolution requiring a GGP-100K genomic panel on all herd bulls/natural service sires born on or after January 1, 2025.
While it will take time for this rule to impact the membership, it is imperative that seedstock providers begin planning. A genomic test has been required on all AI sires for some time; now, any natural service sire born on or after January 1, 2025, must meet the same DNA requirements (high density genomic panel) as AI sires and donor dams before any of their progeny can be registered. The following guidelines can help members, and those applying for registration, prepare for this change.
Updates to 2026 Sire Source
The 2026 Sire Source is expanding its reach and offers a significant opportunity to showcase your bulls. For the first time, the print edition will be mailed to all SimTalk subscribers – over 40,000 ASA members, commercial producers, universities, and industry professionals. This is an increase from the previous 8,000-member reach.
This gives your bull exposure to a nationwide audience of cattle producers actively seeking new genetics. Listings are more than just a mention; they provide direct visibility to potential buyers.
Sign up now and your bull’s listing will:
- Be live on simmental.org for the rest of 2025
- Appear in the full-color 2026 print edition
- Remain accessible online in 2026
Advertising is open to all breeders whose bulls meet the Sire Source guidelines*, regardless of ASA membership.
Contact Nancy Chesterfield (nchesterfield@simmgene.com) or Rebecca Price (rprice@simmgene.com) to get started.
*Bulls must be registered with the ASA and have all required DNA testing completed to qualify as approved AI sires.
Attention:
Hydrops Information Center
National PTP Show
2026 Cattlemen's Congress
Junior PTP Show: January 12 (Judge: Matt Claeys, IN)
Open PTP Show: January 12-13 (Judge: Matt Copeland, NM)
SIMGENETICS NEWS DESK
Insights into the IGS Calving Ease Update
by Jon DeClerck, PhD, ASA EVP
Continue reading
Mature Weight and Cow Energy Requirement EPD Released in Research Format
Expected progeny differences (EPD) for mature weight (MW) and cow energy requirement (CER) have been released by th...
Careers at ASA
Open Positions:
Join IGS and Theta Solutions as a Genetic Data Scientist advancing innovation in livestock gene...
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Explore the 2025 Sire Source
