American Simmental Association celebrates 50 years
The American Simmental Association celebrated its 50 years anniversary in conjunction with its annual Fall Focus board meeting and educational symposium at the ASA headquarters in Bozeman, Aug. 25 to 29. Educational sessions, interactive committee meetings, and a pitchfork fondue highlighted the event, offering something for commercial and seedstock cattle producers.
To kick off the five-day event, 300-people—including local residents, former ASA staff, members of the association, international cattle producers, and many more with ties to the association—were in attendance for ASA’s 50-year anniversary dinner on Aug. 25. Participants enjoyed a pitchfork fondue and live music by Sam Platts and The Great Plainsmen, Pony, Montana. Bob Hough introduced his new book, “Simmental’s American Journey,” highlighting the Simmental cattle breed in the United States. In addition, Wade Shafer, ASA’s executive vice president, took a look back at the progression of ASA since its founding in 1968.
The educational sessions featured presentations from industry professionals, scientists, and ASA leaders discussing ASA’s Genetic Evaluation System, the IGS Multi-breed Genetic Evaluation powered by BOLT, genomics, EPDs, and the National Cattle Evaluation. The speakers include: John Pollak , Professor Emeritus Cornell University; Bruce Golden, Theta Solutions, LLC; Wade Shafer, ASA’s EVP; Steve McGuire, ASA chief operations officer; Mahdi Saatchi, lead genomicist, International Genetics Solutions; Charlie Will, former manager of Holstein Sire Program for Select Sires; Matt Spangler, University of Nebraska-Lincoln; and Bob Hough, author. The day wrapped up with a dinner hosted by the Montana Simmental Association.
In addition to the educational session, the ASA Board of Trustees held their fall board meeting, which included interactive committee meetings, giving cattle producers the opportunity connect with the ASA Trustees. The ASA staff reported on association programs and answered questions. ASA’s processing team held their inaugural Herdbook Services tutorial session focused on the most useful functions of ASA’s data reporting system. To learn more about the event, visit fallfocus.org.
Founded in 1968, the American Simmental Association is headquartered in Bozeman, Montana. ASA is committed to leveraging technology, education and collaboration to accelerate genetic profitability for the beef industry. In keeping with its commitment, ASA, along with its partners, formed International Genetic Solutions—the world’s largest multi-breed genetic evaluation of beef cattle.
