Check out the contest results and pics from the Area 1 JABGA Regional Show, Goat Gala in Merced, California! Area 1 JABGA Regional Show: Goat Gala Check out the contest results and pics from the Area 1 JABGA Regional Show, Goat Gala in Merced, California! Check out these photos from the Area 1 JABGA Regional Show - Goat Gala! Photos by Lacy Ann Photography . See the contest results below. Related Posts

ABGA and JABGA are now accepting scholarship applications for the 2023 year. ABGA and JABGA Now Accepting 2023 Scholarship Applications ABGA and JABGA are now accepting scholarship applications for the 2023 year. The American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) and Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) are now accepting scholarship applications for 2023. Applications will be due to the ABGA office via electronic form or regular mail (4258 S Jackson St, San Angelo, Texas 76903) by April 1, 2023. The American Boer Goat Association scholarship program is designed to encourage the educational enhancement of young Boer goat breeders by awarding annual scholarships. This program is open to any active ABGA or JABGA member, 21 years of age or under, who has been involved in ABGA or JABGA programs. Applicants must: Be an active member of the American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) or the Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) Be either a high school senior OR a college student (21 years of age and under) as of January 1, 2023. Selection Scholarship recipients will be selected by members of the ABGA Scholarship Committee, none of whom have children applying for the JABGA scholarship program. Each applicant may only receive the scholarship one time. Verification of Enrollment Recipients must verify their enrollment in an institution of higher education with the ABGA office by September 30, 2023. The scholarship award check will be sent to the educational institution upon verification of enrollment. Failure to meet enrollment requirements in 2023 will result in forfeiture of the scholarship. Recognition ABGA scholarship recipients will be recognized at the 2023 ABGA and JABGA National Show in Louisville. Ky. Application Checklist Students wanting to apply for the 2023 ABGA Scholarship program should submit the following materials on or before April 1, 2023. Completed scholarship application ( VIEW HERE ) Copy of final high school and/or college transcript for the Fall 2022 semester Copy of SAT/ACT scores (if not listed on high school/college transcript) Two (2) letters of recommendation Questions or Concerns? Please contact JABGA Youth Coordinator Hannah Seymore at jabga@abga.org with any questions or concerns regarding the ABGA scholarship program. Ready to Apply? Complete the form below to apply for the 2023 ABGA Scholarship program: ABGA Scholarship Application Related Posts

The Boer goat industry faces challenges like breeding for quality, disease management, and labor commitment. Despite these, the rewards are immense. By Alaina Blair Overcoming Obstacles in the Industry The Boer goat industry faces challenges like breeding for quality, disease management, and labor commitment. Despite these, the rewards are immense. By Alaina Blair There are many obstacles and challenges that affect the Boer goat industry as a whole. These hurdles vary, and some are unforeseen, they can range from getting started in the industry and networking, having the knowledge and understanding of the breed, finding a support system and a mentor, as well as establishing proper care and nutrition. Even though these challenges can be difficult to navigate at times, they are no comparison to the blessings of being a part of this industry brings. In this article, I will focus on what I feel are the primary obstacles in the Boer goat show industry; the challenge of breeding for both quality and consistency, disease and health management, time and labor commitment, and judging standards and subjectivity. Breeding for desired traits can lead to being successful Breeders are increasingly utilizing genetic testing and performance data to make informed breeding decisions. This not only helps in selecting show-quality characteristics, such as muscle development and size but also ensures the long-term health and vitality of the herd. Solution: Sharing knowledge and collaborating with other breeders is essential to continuing the advancement of the breed. Disease and Health Management Like all livestock industries, Boer goat breeders face the constant challenge of managing diseases and parasites that can affect the health of their goats. While Boer goats are generally hardy animals, stress from showing, transportation, and environmental changes can compromise their immune systems, making them susceptible to illness. Solution: Prevention is crucial. Regular vaccinations, deworming programs, and maintaining a clean, low-stress environment are essential for keeping goats healthy and show-ready. Breeders are also becoming more proactive in monitoring goat health by conducting regular veterinary checks, which helps catch potential issues before they become major setbacks. Time and Labor Commitment Show preparation is time-consuming and requires a significant investment of both labor and resources. Breeding for high-quality show animals is an ongoing process, and raising them to their peak potential involves careful nutrition, exercise, grooming, and training. This level of commitment can be difficult to sustain, particularly for small-scale breeders with limited resources. Solution: Support networks and mentorship programs can provide guidance and help breeders share the workload. Collaborating with other show participants, pooling resources for shared facilities or equipment, and leveraging social media to build a community around the Boer goat industry can help alleviate some of the pressures faced by breeders. Judging Standards and Subjectivity Another challenge within the Boer goat show industry is the subjectivity of judging. While guidelines exist for evaluating Boer goats, the interpretation of those standards can vary from one judge to another. This can lead to inconsistencies in scoring and some frustration among breeders who feel that their goats were not evaluated fairly. Solution: Education and transparency are key. Judges who are well-versed in the genetics and ideal conformation of Boer goats help to establish a more consistent and fair judging process. Likewise, breeders benefit from understanding the judging criteria and aligning their breeding programs with these standards to increase their chances of success in competitions. Breeders should also consider characteristics that are important to them because at the end of the day, the breeder should be happy with what they are raising and seeing in “their barn”. While the Boer goat show industry faces its share of challenges, the passion and dedication of its participants continue to drive its growth and evolution. By embracing new technologies, staying informed about best practices in animal care, and working together as a community, breeders can overcome obstacles and contribute to the continued success and sustainability of the industry. The Boer goat show world is not without its difficulties, but with perseverance and innovation, success is always within reach. Related Posts Oct 18, 2024 Maintaining Breed Integrity The Reasons Behind the Breed Standards by Jada Young Aug 9, 2024 JABGA Member, Baylee Lamb, Recognized by the state of Oklahoma JABGA Bred & Owned Percentage Doe Grand Champion's hard work and dedication pays off! Mar 26, 2022 What National Agriculture Week Means To Me JABGA Board Member, Alaina Blair, reflects on what National Agriculture Week means to her.

The JABGA Board of Directors proposes the age change be implemented on September 1, 2023. JABGA Age Division Changes The JABGA Board of Directors proposes the age change be implemented on September 1, 2023. Current Junior (4-8 years old) Intermediate (9-13 years old) Senior (14-18 old) Updated Novice (4-7 years old) Junior (8-12 years old) Intermediate (13-16 years old) Senior (17-21 years old) JABGA Board of Directors proposes that the age change be implemented on September 1st, so it would be effective for the start of the 2023-2024 Regional Show Series and all JABGA shows. Related Posts Oct 25, 2024 2024 - 2025 Regional Show Series: Public Speaking Topics The Public Speaking contest encourages participants to develop communication skills while sharing knowledge about the Boer goat industry and breed. Jul 21, 2023 Updated JABGA Speech Topics The updated Speech Topics were passed by the JABGA Board of Directors at the 2023 Summer Face-to Face meeting.

The third and final day of our JABGA Board of Directors Face-to-Face meeting in San Angelo, Texas is all wrapped up! 2022 JABGA Face-to-Face: Day 3 The third and final day of our JABGA Board of Directors Face-to-Face meeting in San Angelo, Texas is all wrapped up! The third and final day of our Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) Board of Directors Face-to-Face meeting in San Angelo, Texas is all wrapped up! JABGA directors kicked off the day with a tour of Denis Ranch Feedlot, in Vancourt; a small ruminant feed mill and custom feeder established in 1973. They house over 15,000 sheep and goats owned by independent producers. John Duke Hudson, a commercial meat goat broker and feeder, spoke about the feed mixes the mill produces and the efficiencies in health and growth they are trying to capitalize on. From there, the group traveled to the Rocking Chair Ranch owned by Loyd Whitehead. Ranch managers, Randy Wood, and Philip Vinson, along with Whitehead, guided the directors as they worked through pens of 5/8 3/8 Spanish Boer Cross goats. Discussions focused on crossbred versus purebred stock, management considerations, and Boer goat breed characteristics. The group also toured the sale ring space and spent time conversing about the challenges and opportunities facing the Boer breed, as well as the industry at large. JABGA extends its thanks to the generous people of the Rocking Chair Ranch and Denis Ranch for their hospitality and willingness to share their experiences and wealth of knowledge in animal agriculture. Directors resumed their business meeting at the American Boer Goat Association offices in the afternoon and capped off the trip with a hibachi dinner. #JABGA #news Related Posts

Being the JABGA Area 3 Regional Show Secretary is all about paying it forward for Adrienne and Joe Kidder. Meet JABGA Area 3 Regional Show Secretary & One of Our National Show Superintendents Being the JABGA Area 3 Regional Show Secretary is all about paying it forward for Adrienne and Joe Kidder. Adrienne & Joe Kidder Being the JABGA Area 3 Regional Show Secretary is all about paying it forward for Adrienne and Joe Kidder. “Our daughter would not be who she is today without all the experiences she gained from the JABGA,” said Adrienne Kidder. “We just wanted to give back with hopes to help other families.” Becoming the Show Secretary started when they were approached by a couple of local breeders and the president of the JABGA about hosting a show. Indiana is known as the Crossroads of America, Adrienne explained. Several major interstate systems cross in Indiana. Adrienne & Hannah Kidder “We all felt it would be the perfect location for a JABGA Regional Show,” said Adrienne, who joined the American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) for her daughter Hannah. After joining the ABGA, they started Kidder Show Stock and their own breeding program. They gathered different bloodlines from some of the best breeders in the business, Adrienne explained. “We love selling our does and bucks to the youth, whether it is to JABGA members, 4-H or FFA members,” she added. “The smile on the kids’ faces and the accomplishments they gain is why we do this.” While doing this, the Kidder family has grown. “The friends that we have met in this industry we consider like family,” Adrienne said. Joe Kidder But this isn’t the only way Joe is involved in the ABGA. He’s also a 2022 National Show Superintendent. Joe said he was first was given the opportunity to be a Superintendent by Jesse Kimmel’s suggestion for him to volunteer. Through that suggestion, Joe was able to get more involved with the National Show. “ Being a National Show Superintendent I feel is an honor,” he said. “It has been a great opportunity to be able to give back to the ABGA and the wonderful breeders of this industry.” Related Posts

The American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) is now hiring a Youth Coordinator for the Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA). CLOSED: Now Hiring: JABGA Youth Coordinator The American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) is now hiring a Youth Coordinator for the Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA). **As of October 5, 2022, the American Boer Goat Association is no longer accepting applications for the JABGA Youth Coordinator position. Thank you to all applicants who submitted their information!** The American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) is now hiring a Youth Coordinator for the Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) . This is a remote position with some travel required. If you are passionate about leadership, education, and personal development for youth and want to work with an expanding nonprofit organization, email your resume and cover letter to officemanager@abga.org or apply on Indeed here . Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) Youth Coordinator Position Overview: This position is fully responsible for organizing the Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA). The JABGA Youth Coordinator develops and facilitates programs in various settings to enhance and support education and personal development for youth involved in JABGA. The Youth Coordinator ensures all JABGA projects are completed on time, within budget, and meet quality standards, and secures and implements grants/funding and development programs to support JABGA’s mission. Location & Travel: This position is remote, with a requirement to travel to industry events, all JABGA Regional and National Shows, and occasionally the ABGA office (San Angelo, Texas). Compensation: Salary is commensurate with experience. Education: A Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis on agricultural education is preferred. Reports To: ABGA Executive Director, Office Manager, Background Check: The ability to pass a comprehensive background check is required. This position adheres to strict conduct and confidentiality standards regarding minors and sensitive information. Prior Experience: Event planning, specifically youth educational and leadership events (required) Working with youth (required) Basic financial management, including developing and monitoring budgets and financial reporting (required) Agricultural extension or agricultural organization/association work (preferred) Grants management (preferred) Project management, including using project management software (Microsoft Teams, OEX) (preferred) Skills: Excellent time management and prioritization skills Stellar written and verbal communication skills Comfortable with high-pressure situations and strict deadlines Attention to detail Ability to learn, understand, and follow complex procedures and regulations Proficiency with desktop computers, Microsoft Office applications (Word, Teams, Excel), and conducting business via email and the Internet Ability to lead and manage a group Ability to anticipate setbacks and plan accordingly Strong sense of relationship building and ability to work in teams Duties: Prepare comprehensive action plans for JABGA projects, directives, and events with guidance from ABGA Executive Director, ABGA Youth Committee Plan and oversee meetings and activities of the JABGA Board of Directors (monthly virtual meetings, annual Face-to-Face meetings) Perform administrative tasks on behalf of JABGA (scheduling, timelines, budgets, contacts, financial inquiries, vendor relations) Represent JABGA and ABGA at various industry events, including “major” livestock shows (NAILE, Fort Worth Livestock Show & Rodeo, Denver Livestock Show, RodeoHouston, the American Royal Livestock Show, OYE, and others), all ABGA and JABGA Regional Shows and National Shows, National FFA Convention Provide routine updates to ABGA Executive Director, Office Manager, and Youth Committee on the success of JABGA policies, events, and directives Inform JABGA members and their parents/guardians on JABGA policies, events, and directives via text, email, video chat, and social media. Manage safety concerns, accidents, injuries, and misconduct of JABGA members and volunteers according to ABGA and JABGA policies and local and national laws. Assist the Youth Committee and Executive Director in identifying and pursuing financial support opportunities (grants) from government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and corporate sponsors to meet JABGA's needs Maintain strict conduct and confidentiality standards regarding minors and sensitive information About the American Boer Goat Association: The American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that focuses on protecting, promoting, and recording the American Boer goat breed. The Boer breed was developed by Dutch farmers in South Africa in the 1900s and was then introduced in the United States in 1993. The American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) was founded the following year. Boer goats are prized for their rapid growth rate, excellent carcass quality, and adaptability to many climates. A docile and highly fertile breed, Boer goats have primarily been used for meat production. Over a century later, these traits set the Boer goat apart in the purebred and commercial segments of the American meat goat industry. With 7,000 members and 45,000 goats registered annually, today’s ABGA offers members marketing, educational, and commercial industry opportunities, along with youth involvement through the Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA).   About the Junior American Boer Goat Association: The Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) supports ABGA in its mission to improve and promote the Boer breed and encourage the breeding, raising, and exhibition of American Boer Goats. JABGA fosters the personal growth of its youth membership through training in leadership, good sportsmanship, and character development as individuals and in groups. **As of October 5, 2022, the American Boer Goat Association is no longer accepting applications for the JABGA Youth Coordinator position. Thank you to all applicants who submitted their information!** JABGA Youth Coordinator .pdf Download PDF • 85KB #JABGA #news Related Posts

ABGA joined hosts Drew Williams and Jason Brashear on Boer Goat Nation on December 20 to recap the ABGA and JABGA Face-to-Face meetings ABGA on Boer Goat Nation - Dec. 20 ABGA joined hosts Drew Williams and Jason Brashear on Boer Goat Nation on December 20 to recap the ABGA and JABGA Face-to-Face meetings ABGA President Ken Baty, Treasurer Sam Knott, JABGA Youth Coordinator Hannah Seymore, and office manager Brenda McCary joined host Drew Williams on Boer Goat Nation on December 20, 2022, to recap the 2023 renewal process using iCompete discuss the ABGA and JABGA Board of Directors' Face-to-Face meetings. You can watch the Facebook Live broadcast of the podcast below: HELPFUL LINKS: Renew for 2023! iCompete Instructions iCompete Video Tutorial Boer Goat Nation , hosted by Drew Williams, is a podcast designed to promote the Boer goat breed, the industry, and the hard-working people that make the industry great. Boer Goat Nation is broadcast via Facebook Live every Tuesday night at 7:00 PM CST . You can find them on Facebook HERE . In an effort to improve communication and open engagement with nearly 10,000 ABGA members and industry partners, the ABGA Board of Directors is excited to be partnering with Boer Goat Nation . The Board of Directors has committed to participating in the podcast once a month to share updates and progress within ABGA and JABGA and share highlights from our published minutes from the monthly meetings of the Board of Directors . #JABGA #news Related Posts

JABGA is now accepting JABGA Board of Directors nominations until March 1, 2023. REMINDER: Nominations Open for JABGA Board of Directors JABGA is now accepting JABGA Board of Directors nominations until March 1, 2023. The Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) is now accepting nominations for the JABGA Board of Directors . Applications (completed by the nominee) for the JABGA Board of Directors are due to the ABGA office via electronic form or regular mail (4258 S Jackson St, San Angelo, Texas 76903) on or before March 1, 2023. The JABGA Board of Directors works alongside the ABGA Board of Directors to represent JABGA members across five areas of the United States as the main governing body of the Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) . JABGA Directors volunteer their personal time and effort in service of JABGA programs like the JABGA Regional Show Series and by promoting core JABGA values like scholarship, leadership, good sportsmanship, and character development. The JABGA Board of Directors also serves as youth ambassadors for the improvement and promotion of the Boer goat breed through the breeding, raising, and exhibition of American Boer Goats. Board seats are open for the following JABGA Areas: Area 1 (Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Montana, Wyoming) Area 2 (North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, Illinois) Area 3 (Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, D.C., Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, New York) Area 4 (Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina) Area 5 (Colorado, New Mexico, Texas) In accordance with JABGA Bylaws, applicants must be JABGA members in good standing (renewed for 2023 by January 1, 2023) in order to run for or hold a seat on the JABGA Board of Directors. For more information, see the ABGA Bylaws and the JABGA Bylaws . Application (Due March 1, 2023) Applications for the JABGA Board of Directors will be due by 5:00 PM CST on March 1, 2023 . Applications should be completed in full and submitted to the ABGA office via electronic form (see below) or regular mail (4258 S Jackson St, San Angelo, Texas 76903) by the due date. Required: Application (completed) – Download here Contact Information page and Certificate of Application (completed) Digital photo Directors Responsibilities page (signed) Responsibility Release, Information Release, Photo Release, Authorization Form Conflict of Interest Statement (completed) Code of Conduct form (completed) Brief statement (less than 250 words) – “Why do you want to be a JABGA Director?” Optional: Applicants may submit a resume that highlights the following: Involvement in JABGA and/or the goat industry School activities 4-H & FFA activities Leadership activities Volunteer work/community service Eligibility Applicants for the JABGA Board of Directors must: Be 14 years of age or older on January 1, 2023 Reside in the JABGA Area for which the applicant is running/elected Have renewed their JABGA membership on or before January 1, 2023 Questions or Concerns? C ontact JABGA Youth Coordinator Hannah Jenkins at jabga@abga.org with any questions or concerns regarding JABGA Board of Directors nominations. Ready to Apply? Applicants should complete the JABGA Board of Directors application below and submit it to the ABGA office via electronic form or regular mail (4258 S Jackson St, San Angelo, Texas 76903) by March 1, 2023. ONLINE FORM: Apply for Junior Board Nomination DOWNLOAD PDF FORM: 2023 JABGA Director Packet FINAL .pdf Download PDF • 357KB About JABGA: The Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) supports ABGA in its mission to improve and promote the Boer breed and encourage the breeding, raising, and exhibition of American Boer Goats. JABGA fosters the personal growth of its youth membership through training in scholarship, leadership, good sportsmanship, and character development as individuals and in groups. #JABGA #news Related Posts

JABGA is now accepting JABGA Board of Directors nominations until March 1, 2024. Applications Open for JABGA Board of Directors JABGA is now accepting JABGA Board of Directors nominations until March 1, 2024. The Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) is now accepting applications for the JABGA Board of Directors . Applications completed by the nominee for the JABGA Board of Directors are due to the ABGA office via electronic form or regular mail on or before March 1, 2024. The JABGA Board of Directors works alongside the ABGA Board of Directors to represent JABGA members across five areas of the United States as the main governing body of the Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) . JABGA Directors volunteer their personal time and effort in service of JABGA programs like the JABGA Regional Show Series and by promoting core JABGA values like scholarship, leadership, good sportsmanship, and character development. The JABGA Board of Directors also serves as youth ambassadors for the improvement and promotion of the Boer goat breed through the breeding, raising, and exhibition of American Boer Goats. Board seats are open for the following JABGA Areas: Area 1 (Washington, Oregon, California, Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Montana, Wyoming) Area 2 (North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, Wisconsin, Illinois) Area 3 (Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, Virginia, Pennsylvania, D.C., Maryland, Delaware, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, New York) Area 4 (Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina) Area 5 (Colorado, New Mexico, Texas) In accordance with JABGA Bylaws, applicants must be JABGA members in good standing (renewed for 2024 by January 1, 2024) in order to run for or hold a seat on the JABGA Board of Directors. For more information, see the ABGA Bylaws and the JABGA Bylaws . Required: Application (completed) Contact Information page and Certificate of Application (completed) Digital photo Directors Responsibilities page (signed) Responsibility Release, Information Release, Photo Release, Authorization Form Conflict of Interest Statement (completed) Code of Conduct form (completed) Brief statement (less than 250 words) – “Why do you want to be a JABGA Director?” Optional: Applicants may submit a resume that highlights the following: Involvement in JABGA and/or the goat industry School activities 4-H & FFA activities Leadership activities Volunteer work/community service Eligibility Applicants for the JABGA Board of Directors must: Be 16 years of age or older on January 1, 2024 Reside in the JABGA Area for which the applicant is running/elected Have renewed their JABGA membership on or before January 1, 2024 Questions or Concerns? C ontact JABGA Youth Coordinator Hannah Jenkins at jabga@abga.org with any questions or concerns regarding JABGA Board of Directors nominations. Ready to Apply? Applicants should complete the JABGA Board of Directors application below and submit it to the ABGA office via electronic form or regular mail by March 1, 2024. ONLINE FORM: Apply now! DOWNLOAD PDF FORM: 2024 JABGA Director Packet .pdf Download PDF • 184KB About JABGA: The Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA) supports ABGA in its mission to improve and promote the Boer breed and encourage the breeding, raising, and exhibition of American Boer Goats. JABGA fosters the personal growth of its youth membership through training in scholarship, leadership, good sportsmanship, and character development as individuals and in groups. Related Posts

Casey Stevens’ goal is to change the meat goat industry. Check out her award winning research! JABGA Member Casey Stevens Researches Goat Meat Casey Stevens’ goal is to change the meat goat industry. Check out her award winning research! An Unknown Staple of Meat | A Study of The Boer Goat Industry Casey Stevens’ goal is to change the meat goat industry. Her research “An Unknown Staple of Meat, A Study of The Meat Goat Industry” came in 4th in the Ag Sociology category at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. You can download and view her study here. Casey_Stevens_An_Unknown_Staple_of_Meat .pdf Download PDF • 962KB Related Posts

The American Boer Goat Association and UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL) celebrate 10 years of successful partnership. To enhance breeding programs, ABGA transitions to advanced SNP analysis, leveraging UC Davis VGL's expertise in modern genetic technologies. DNA The American Boer Goat Association and UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL) celebrate 10 years of successful partnership. Over 29,000 Boer goats have been DNA tested using STR technology. To enhance breeding programs, ABGA transitions to advanced SNP analysis, leveraging UC Davis VGL's expertise in modern genetic technologies. What's New Request DNA Testing Sample Collection + shipping Transitioning to SNP DNA FAQ What's New As of September 1, 2021, all DNA is voluntary. Watch our DNA FAQ with DNA Chairman Paige Gunderson, DNA Co-chair Kyle Tate, Executive Director Caleb Boardman, and ABGA staff & DNA Coordinator Jaelynn Reyes. Watch now All pending STR tests will need to be fulfilled by April 1, 2024. This is for those that submitted a request for DNA testing but have not sent a sample to UC Davis. If you already have an STR test on file, you can upgrade to an SNP test without needing to submit a new hair sample, provided there is enough sample available for retesting. However, if the sample is degraded or insufficient for additional testing, a new sample will be required. In such cases, the labs will notify you accordingly. Turnaround time can vary depending on the sample volume of the laboratory, the quality of the sample submitted and if repeat testing has to be performed. Typically, from the time the laboratory receives the sample until the parentage is reported it takes around 10-14 business days. Delays can also occur if the sample volume for testing is low as samples need to be processed 24 at a time. ABGA has allocated $100,000 for the transition from STR to SNP testing. ABGA is offering a $50 voucher to the first 2,000 members who apply. Each membership is limited to one $50 voucher, which must be used before July 1, 2025. You my choose to use your voucher at checkout. Leftover funds will be re-evaluated after July 1, 2025. SNP Test $62 Per Animal SNP is often referred to as “snip.” This newer and more modern type of marker analysis is currently used in today’s industry and genetic market. When a sample is tested with SNPs, there are roughly 200 markers that the lab views to compare with another animal’s markers to determine parent verification. This allows differentiation between full-sibling parents during verification that STR testing could not do. SNP + STR Test $96 Per Animal Parent Qualification requires the parent to be SNP tested. If your offspring's parents were tested prior to February 2025, you must upgrade the parents test to the updated SNP technology or request the STR & SNP combo for your requested offspring. Request DNA Testing Identification All goats' DNA tested through ABGA must be registered, and have ABGA identification such as their name and identifying marks, tattoos, or microchip number. Parent Qualification If you are requesting parent qualification, check Yes under the question Are you requesting Parent Qualification, and complete the Sire and/or Dam name and registration number. Processing Time UC Davis will email your DNA Sample Instructions to your email address within three (3) business days of ONLINE and/or mailed submission to ABGA. If you did not provide an email address, the DNA Sample Instructions will be mailed to you. If you do not receive your DNA Sample Instructions within 3 business days, CHECK YOUR JUNK EMAIL. If it is not there, contact the ABGA office at (325) 486-2242, or email dna@abga.org . UC Davis will process SNP samples once they have fulfilled the 24-sample requirement. Once the SNP Chip is run and no additional testing is needed, please allow 8-10 business days to process and submit the results report to ABGA. Request SNP Testing Download Printable Form Sample Collection & Shipping Hair Hair root from coarse, longer hair often found over withers, chest, rump, tail, back of hind leg, poll, or fetlock is the preferred sample type for goats. 01 Clean (use comb if possible) by removing all loose hair and foreign matter. 02 Use fingers or pliers to grasp approximately 8-10 hairs close to the skin and pull. Pull (do NOT cut) hair strands. Examine the end of hair strands for presence of root bulbs. Hair roots are necessary for DNA testing. If the majority of hair strands lack the root bulbs, discard hair and start again. 03 Repeat until you have approximately 50-60 hairs with root follicles attached. 04 Place the 50-60 hairs with root follicles attached in a paper envelope and seal with the animal’s name, registration number, and your name written on the envelope 05 Repeat steps 1-4 for each additional animal being sampled. Note: Hair should be dry. If hair has excess dirt and debris, please brush out if possible before pulling hairs for sample. Do not cut the hair! The roots contain the DNA for testing. When sampling several animals in the same session, make sure that there are no hair strands in your hands to reduce the possibility of sample contamination. Clean hands and/or pliers if possible. Blood 01 UC Davis accepts blood collected on blood cards or whole blood in an EDTA tube. 02 If you are sending an EDTA tube, please include at least 3 mL of whole blood in and EDTA purple top, and ship overnight. Avoid shipping over weekends and holidays. 03 Label tubes and blood cards with the animal's name and registration number. Semen 01 Semen straws do not need to kept frozen for shipping, but should be shipped with a cold pack and protected similar to a vaccine. 02 Label your straw with the animal's name and registration number. 03 Store the semen straw(s) in a Ziploc type baggie to prevent leaks, and ship in a box to prevent damage to your sample(s). 04 Place the printed bar-coded submission form inside the box with your sample(s), and ship to the address provided to you in your email from UC Davis. Genetic Improvement SNP testing helps identify genetic markers associated with desirable traits such as milk production, growth rate, and disease resistance. This information can be used to select and breed goats with superior genetics. Parentage Verification It accurately determines the parentage of goats, which is crucial for maintaining pedigree records and ensuring the integrity of breeding programs. STR cannot differentiate between twins, or flush mates, while SNP can. Genetic Diversity SNP testing provides insights into the genetic diversity within and between goat populations. This is important for conservation efforts and for maintaining a healthy gene pool. Disease Resistance By identifying genetic variations linked to disease resistance, SNP testing can help in breeding goats that are more resilient to certain diseases, reducing the need for medical interventions. Economic Benefits Improved genetic selection can lead to higher productivity and better-quality products (e.g. meat), which can enhance the profitability of goat farming. Research and Development SNP data contributes to scientific research, helping to understand the genetic basis of various traits and improving breeding strategies. Transitioning to Advanced Genetic Analysis for Better Breeding Outcomes Beginning February 1, 2025, all DNA testing will move to a Single-nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) analysis, commonly pronounced as “snip.” The American Boer Goat Association has been in partnership with UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL) for 10 years. Since our contract began, UC Davis VGL has tested and stored data and physical samples for over 29,300 ABGA animals using Short Tandem Repeat (STR) testing. To better serve our member’s breeding programs, the ABGA Board agreed to transition forward to a more comprehensive DNA analysis. SNP analysis represents a modern and advanced type of marker analysis widely utilized in today’s genetic industry and market, and UC Davis VGL has been an expert in SNP testing since the 1990s. While the current STR testing is satisfactory for parentage testing, SNP testing offers many more benefits including more accurate parentage verification and opportunities for future research to determine genomic predictors of tested animals. Benefits of SNP Testing DNA FAQ Is DNA mandatory? Per rule 801: As of September1, 2021, DNA testing will be on a voluntary basis. However, DNA testing must be requested and processed through the ABGA office to be eligible for use with ABGA registration. There may eventually be requirements for A.I. Sires, Walking Sires, Donor Dams, and A.I./E.T. kids, but no timeline has been established for DNA to be required at this time. What is the difference between STR and SNP, and why do we need to use SNPs now? STR (Short Tandem Repeat) analysis are markers that have been historically used to perform parentage verification. When a sample is tested with STR analysis, are compared to those of the parents to verify. SNP (Single-nucleotide Polymorphism) is often referred to as “snip.” It is a different type of marker that can also be used for parentage verification. When a sample is tested using SNPs, there are several hundred to thousands of places in the DNA that are assayed, and these are compared between offspring and parents. In addition, SNP collects over 70,000 different autosomal markers. Why was this DNA plan developed? Testing with SNPs provides for the opportunity to capture more information on each animal than was historically performed with STR testing. This may help to resolve cases of closely related individuals and may also help to build a database to allow further research and enable additional genetic/genomic selection tools If the ABGA elects to start developing expected progeny differences (EPDs)EPD’s, combining these with SNP data will provide a more accurate prediction of the animal's genetic potential. This plan was also developed to adopt technologies and build tools used throughout the livestock industry. The goal is to constantly improve Boer goat’s place in the industry and be able to provide more comprehensive and accurate information to our customers that allows them to be more confident in purchasing decisions. Our goal is to serve all our ABGA members and Boer Goat breeders. We welcome any questions so that we can help and advise you on the best plan for your operation. For more information contact dna@abga.org . What is ABGA doing to support the transition from STR to SNP for members? In 2022, the Board of Directors committed $100,000 to aid in the transition of the DNA program. In 2025, this $100,000 will be utilized by offering a voucher of $50 per customer that can be used for any test, including upgrading from STR to SNP profiles, for the first 2000 customers. This voucher will be applied to the first invoice of each customer. If my sire/dam was already DNA typed with STR, do I still need to upgrade to SNP? Currently, when a sample is submitted for genotyping or parent verification, it will be tested for a panel of SNP markers. If the sire or dam was DNA typed with a STR profile, then they cannot be compared to an animal with a SNP profile, as these are two different types of markers (explained above). If you need parentage on an animal, it would be in your best interest to upgrade parent animals to a SNP profile, if you have not done so already. In 2025, ABGA is offering a voucher of $50 per customer that can be used for any test, including upgrading from STR to SNP profiles, for the first 2000 customers. Will I need to submit a new sample to upgrade from STR to SNP? Possibly. If you have already submitted a sample to UC Davis, it is likely that the sample can be upgraded from STR to SNP if there is enough remaining sample on file to do so. It is possible for samples to degrade over time. If a sample is degraded or there is insufficient sample remaining to do additional testing, a new sample would be required. The labs will send a notification of this if it does become the case. Will there be other markers beyond SNP that I will need to make another transition to in the future? This seems unlikely, given the nature of SNP markers and what we know about the genome of animals. However, technology advances and there may be other methodologies developed to generate the data. Most laboratories are selecting a core set of markers to use moving forward and likely, as technologies change, these markers will remain the same. Is there the possibility that there could be newer, more advanced, even more accurate technology in the future? Yes. But as it currently stands, SNP analysis are the markers and the methodology that is being used, and it appears it will stay that way for the foreseeable future. What does the DNA test do for me? It identifies the specific genotypes of many markers across the DNA of the goat you have tested. It allows for parent verification and future verification of that goat as the parent of any kid(s). It will show on your goat’s registration papers, and on online searches people do, that your goat’s identity is verified and recorded through the DNA test, preserving the integrity of our breed. It will allow you to show your goat’s parentage has been verified, if you have requested parent verification. Will DNA be used for research? Yes. UC Davis retains the right to use all samples stored at the VGL for research. Research and the benefits that it can provide to producers is the main focus of the program for the ABGA. As more members participate in the DNA testing program, this will make meaningful research a reality for our animals for the first time. Who owns the DNA sample? All DNA samples submitted through the registry are considered the registry’s samples, however, all samples are stored at UC Davis VGL, and the VGL retains the right to use any samples stored for research purposes. For contract customer registries like ABGA, the registry has ultimate ownership of the sample. The animal owner ordering the test receives the results of the DNA tests requested on their goats. This gives ABGA members the guarantee that should UC Davis requests to dispose of samples processed through ABGA requests, ABGA can move those samples to another facility so they are still available for research that will benefit all members. Should it matter to me that the ABGA shares ownership of the sample? Yes. It gives you the guarantee that your sample is safe, regardless of what UC Davis may decide in the future. It makes it easier and cheaper for members to DNA test their goats, and verify parentage, if they wish to do that. Who gets a copy of the DNA Report listing the Markers? For contract customer registries, like ABGA, the owner of the goat will receive a copy of the results to be kept with the animal, and the registry receives a copy of the results to be stored in the appropriate registry herd book. Can I get other animals' DNA results? No. Only the owner of the DNA sample can get that information. The member will need to contact the owner of the animal who is also the owner of the DNA to get those results. The DNA test results will stay with the animal. If you purchased an animal that has DNA on file you may request the DNA report per rule 805 “A copy of the official test report will be released to the current owner of record.” Can I submit DNA directly to UC Davis? You can submit directly to UC Davis for your own records, but unfortunately ABGA does not accept DNA results on samples that are submitted directly to UC Davis. UC Davis does not offer SNP testing directly to breeders. You may only request SNP testing through ABGA. Can the test tell me if my goat is a percentage or fullblood? No. With current information available, there is no way to tell what percentage Boer is in a goat. Is there an extra fee for parent verification? No. The ABGA included this service in our price for doing the DNA test. Will I be told who the parents are? Not exactly. You select who the possible parents are and request to verify parentage. Therefore, the results will show if those selected possible parents qualify as parents or if they are excluded as parents. Can I request parent verification of my goat(s) if I don’t own one of the parents? Yes, but only if you verify parentage through ABGA, the parents are registered and have been DNA tested through ABGA. The goat you are verifying parentage of must have some form of an ABGA registration or listing paper number and then all you need is the goat’s parents’ registration numbers to verify the parentage of your goat. If the goat’s parents have not been DNA tested, you would need to order DNA test sample kits on the parents as well as the goat at the same time. If you verify through UC Davis, and/or your goat’s parents have not been DNA tested through ABGA, you must have the VGL Case ID number from their owner. Do I need to keep a sample of the hair? Both UC Davis and ABGA suggest that when you pull a sample to send in for testing, you pull another sample. Place it in an envelope the same way you do the sample you’re sending in and write the identifying information on the envelope. Store it in a DRY, safe place. The best protection of your sample is to leave it in storage at UC Davis where there are documented safeguards in place. Who owns the rights to do research on the sample or sell those rights? A sample by itself is worthless for research. However, UC Davis retains research rights on all samples it houses, whether they come from individual customers or contract customer associations, like the ABGA. The following language is provided to each customer from UC Davis: USE OF DATA. All Research data, including but not limited to, all notebooks, DNA typing protocols, original laboratory records, and any research reports, shall be usable by university in pursuit of its mission of teaching, research and public service. University reserves the right, subject to individual confidentiality requirements, to publish any or all research results developed from such data. Is there an extra fee for a Parentage Data Search? Yes, $5 Can I pay to submit a semen sample if I am not the current owner? Per Rule 802.c “Only the current owner of the animal can request DNA Testing. Written and signed confirmation from the current owner on record or their descendants will be required for the release to test an animal not belonging to the member requesting to test said animal.” Can I pay to move the DNA UC Davis has stored to be SNP tested if I am not the current owner? Per Rule 802.c “Only the current owner of the animal can request DNA Testing. Written and signed confirmation from the current owner on record or their descendants will be required for the release to test an animal not belonging to the member requesting to test said animal.” On 1/14/2025 the board approved to add the following to rule 802.c “If an animal has previously been tested using STR technology, any current or previous owner of that animal may pay to have the DNA transitioned to SNP technology.” What is the timeline for results? Turnaround time can vary depending on the sample volume of the laboratory, the quality of the sample submitted and if repeat testing has to be performed. Typically, from the time the laboratory receives the sample until the parentage is reported it takes around 10-14 business days. Delays can also occur if the sample volume for testing is low as samples need to be processed 24 at a time.