It’s breeding season for Hereford breeders across the country. As you finalize your breeding decisions, are you utilizing the best available data in your decision-making process? Have you taken advantage of the American Hereford Association’s (AHA) latest National Reference Sire Program (NRSP) data?

Through AHA partnerships with Olsen, Stahly and Simplot ranches, Hereford breeders have access to information to make better-informed selection decisions.

“These three test herds have focused on disciplined breeding decisions in order to make great progress since beginning as the AHA test herds,” said Shane Bedwell, AHA director of breed improvement. “By using proven bulls from the various test herds, it will allow great genetic comparisons to be made within your own herd.”

Bedwell encourages members to examine the NRSP data to help make breeding decisions this spring because test herds provide an unbiased platform for results.

“Bulls that are entered in the NRSP test herds are truly put to test as progeny are measured at all points of production,” Bedwell said. “I’d encourage you to study the bulls in the program that check multiple trait boxes and apply them in your own programs.”

The study also evaluates and validates a proven sire’s value, which in turn gives the young sire a comparison within the Hereford population. This service and continued research is a great tool for AHA members to utilize to advance their breeding programs.

“It is the AHA’s goal to identify young sires who can positively affect the marketplace and give seedstock and commercial breeders alike proof that Hereford genetics are profitable,” Bedwell said.

For results from the three test herds, click here.