Programs

Beefmaster Breeders Programs

ADVANCER | AI | CARCASS EVALUATION | VOLUNTARY CLASSIFICATION | DNA TESTING | E6 FEMALE | EAR TAGS | ET | GENETIC EVALUATION | PACESETTER | BBU PRO SERVICES | TYPESETTER | ULTRASOUND | UPGRADING | WEIGHTS & MEASURES | WHR/IBR

ADVANCER

A. Beefmaster Advancers are defined as being 50% or more registered Beefmaster breeding and 50% or less of other registered beef breeding. These animals may be certified by the Association provided they are produced from one of the following mating scenarios:

  1. Registered Beefmaster sire mated to an DNA genotyped beef, registered dam from another breed association.
  2. Registered Beefmaster dam mated to an DNA genotyped beef, registered sire from another breed association.
  3. Known progeny of a 50%‐74% Beefmaster Advancer and a registered Beefmaster sire or dam.
  4. Known progeny from animals recorded in the Beefmaster Advancer Program meeting all BBU requirements for registration that are 50%‐87% Beefmaster breeding.

B. All animals as defined above may be certified as a Beefmaster Advancer by the Association but none shall ever attain registered status as a Beefmaster.

C. Animals produced from a certified 75% or greater Beefmaster Advancer mated to a registered Beefmaster may apply for registered Beefmaster status, if the percentage Beefmaster is greater than 87% in the resulting progeny.

D. Animals eligible for recording in the Beefmaster Advancer Program MUST have a weaning weight submitted at the time of registration.

E. All registered non‐Beefmaster animals must have a DNA sample on file with a BBU recognized genomic services vendor. Owner(s) of said sample will make DNA test results available to BBU if requested. Said sample may also be used by BBU for parentage and/or other necessary tests such as genotyping and genetic defects, as determined by BBU.

F. All registered non‐Beefmaster animals must have a DNA genotype (no less than a 50K platform) on file with BBU and be parent verified through a BBU approved genomic services vendor.

G. All registered non‐Beefmasters must be tested directly to determine genetic defect carrier status for known genetic defects identified by the parent breed registry. Known carriers and potential carriers are not excluded from producing Beefmaster Advancer progeny.

H. Beefmaster Advancer progeny of non‐Beefmaster sire or dam must be free of known genetic defects.

  1. If the non‐Beefmaster parent is not a carrier or potential carrier (as identified by the parent breed registry) progeny will be considered clean.
  2. If the non‐Beefmaster parent is a carrier or potential carrier, progeny must test clean for the known genetic defects and the results be on file with BBU before the calf will be registered.

I. If additional genetic defects are identified by other breed association(s) after BBU includes a registered non‐Beefmaster animal in the Beefmaster Advancer Program, BBU reserves the right to require additional genetic defect testing by BBU approved genomic services vendors.

J. BBU reserves the right to make public the Registration information of any animal that tests as a Carrier or Potential Carrier on any known or yet unknown genetic defect both now and in the future.

IMPORTANT: YOU MUST BE A CURRENT DUES PAID MEMBER TO REGISTER CATTLE WITH BBU.

Notes:

  1. All animals of the same sex born in the same year must have different identification numbers.
  2. When making an application for an Advancer BBU Certificate of Breeding on an animal, the Month, Day and Year of Birth of the animal must be indicated.
Advancer Registration Form

AI

Artificial insemination (AI) is the process of collecting sperm cells from a male animal and manually depositing them into the reproductive tract of a female. One can cite a number of potential benefits from the use of artificial insemination.

  1. Increased efficiency of bull usage
  2. Increased potential for genetic selection
  3. Decreased costs
  4. Increased safety for animals and farmers
  5. Reduced disease transmission

Summary:

Artificial Insemination is the fastest way to make genetic improvements in a herd today. With the advances in technology used in sexing semen to the better heat detecting programs and stimulants used to jump start estrus cycles, AI is the cheapest most effective way to introduce top performing genetics into your herd on a yearly basis. By utilizing the best bulls in the Beefmaster breed you can increase your marketability and performance without having to go to the expense of buying new herd sires each year.

BEEFMASTER BREEDERS UNITED ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION PROGRAM

A. All A.I. sires must have a DNA genotype (no less than a 50K platform) on file with BBU and be parent verified through a BBU approved genomic services vendors. Effective August 1, 2016, all A.I. sires must be parent verified using DNA SNPs before progeny can be registered. Older STR and blood type parentage needs will be handled on a case by case basis. Sire with AI Certification Forms already in the BBU system before August 1, 2016 will be exempted from the Parent Verification requirement.

B. All A.I. sired calves must have DNA and sire qualify prior to registration, starting on July 1, 2024.

C. Sire owner must purchase A.I. Service Certificates from BBU at a fee established by the BBU Board of Directors. Application for A.I. Service Certificates must be requested by one of the owners of record of the bull. Only one owner of record for jointly owned bulls is required to request A.I. Service Certificates.

D. BBU will maintain A.I. Certificate inventories.

E. Once an A.I. Certificate is purchased from the sire owner, it may be transferred by the purchaser to other breeders.

F. BBU will maintain A.I Certificate inventories by electronic means. Date of conception in relation to semen ownership and A.I. Certification Forms will become null and void as of August 1, 2016.

G. The breeder of an A.I. sired animal must have an A.I. Certificate for that sire recorded in their inventory at BBU for each progeny to be registered.

H. An animal may have no more than four (4) owners of record at any given time. Owner(s) of record refers to the current owner(s) of an animal in whose membership(s) the animal is recorded.

Protocols
AI Certificate Form

CARCASS EVALUATION

BBU Members Are Encouraged to Feed Out Beefmaster Sired or Influenced Calves
Retaining ownership and feeding out a group of your Beefmaster calves is an opportunity to see how your cattle will compare to other cattle in the industry. We strongly suggest that you consider feeding out '45-60 day backgrounded and weaned calves or yearling age cattle in a reputable feedyard. Cattle should weigh at least 500 lbs., but again for best results, heavier cattle weighing 750-850 lbs. will have shorter feeding times and better results in most cases. Additionally, the calves should have gone through a good animal health program that includes the proper deworming, vaccinations, etc.' Consult your veterinarian for current animal health programs.

Contact the BBU Office if you have questions about feeding your calves.' We can help you find a feedyard that will feed from 10 to a 1000 head.' We will also help you find an ultrasound technician to sort the cattle for harvest date, coordinate harvest data in the packing plant and help you interpret the yield and quality grade data when the cattle are harvested.

VOLUNTARY CLASSIFICATION

This is a visual classification system based on the animal's physical conformation and breed character. It is not used to predict performance. The program was developed to help identify cattle with the most valuable traits (which can be visually appraised) and to eliminate bottom end cattle from the breed. The program is voluntary and members pay for the service. Cattle are personally inspected by a BBU Field Service Representative for desirable conformation, structural soundness and Beefmaster breed character and are classified according to BBU's Standard of Excellence. The Typesetter Program identifies and recognizes bulls and females on the basis of classification scores given to their progeny.

Typesetters are designated on their breeding certificates with two asterisks (**)

The BBU Standard of Excellence is a set of guidelines for breeders to follow when visually evaluating Beefmaster cattle. These descriptions are of how the ideal Beefmaster should look as well as the discriminations that you should try to avoid. These are simply guidelines to follow when looking at the conformation of a Beefmaster.

Also you will find below a brochure on evaluating Beefmaster cattle that will label all the areas of an animal. This brochure allows you to see those areas of the animal that a Field Service Representative may describe when you have them out for a ranch visit.

Voluntary Classification Guidelines
Standard of Excellence Information
Evaluating Cattle Manual

DNA TESTING

All DNA submissions must have either a registration number or performance number in order for them to be processed and sent to the lab.
For questions email BBUDNA@beefmasters.org.

DNA Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the difference between STRs and SNPs?
    1. STRs - The proper name for STR is Short Tandem Repeat analysis. This is the old type of marker analysis that was used previously before the industry transitioned to the new SNP analysis in 2012. When a sample is tested with STR analysis there are 11-14 NUMBER markers that the lab looks at and can compare with another animal’s markers to determine parent verification. As the labs have now moved to SNP analysis, STR analysis is no longer used except on a case-by-case basis.
    2. SNPs - The proper name for SNP is Single-nucleotide Polymorphism (often referred to as snip). This is the new type of marker analysis that is currently used in today’s genetic market. Every sample submitted to either Zoetis or NEOGEN for a Genotype panel or Parentage Analysis is run on SNPs. Contrary to the STR analysis, when a sample is tested with SNPs there are 80-110 LETTER markers that the lab looks at and can compare with another animal’s markers to determine parent verification.
  2. My sire/dam was DNA typed back a few years ago on STRs. Why can I not compare back to that now, or why is there an additional charge to do so?
    1. When a sample is submitted for genotyping or parent verification it is run on a SNP analysis. If the sire or dam of this animal was DNA typed back several years ago and only has STRs on file they cannot be compared to the SNPs as this is two different types of markers (explained above). If possible, it is in your best interest to either submit a new sample for that parent so it can be run on SNPs, or if the sample on file is viable for additional testing to have that sample pulled and run on SNPs. If that sire or dam is no longer alive to have an additional sample submitted for SNPs and the sample on file is not viable for additional testing, then that parent cannot be compared back to the calf using SNPs. As a last resort, the calf can be run on STRs to be able to compare back to the parent but there is an additional cost for this testing and approval from BBU staff is required.
    2. If either the parent has to be run on a SNP test to compare to the calf or the calf run on an STR test to compare back to the parent there is an additional fee, as the lab now has to run a completely different test. The fee is $15.00 for an additional STR or SNP test.
  3. What is the difference between the HD and LD genotype?
    1. The High Density (HD) Genotype is a panel of 50,000-150,000 SNP markers. When your animal is run on an HD Genotype it will receive Genomic-Enhanced EPDs (GE-EPDs) and parent verification if the parents have DNA on file. To qualify, all A.I. sires and embryo donor dams are required to be run on the HD Genotype and must be parent verified back to both sire and dam.
    2. The Low Density (LD) Genotype is a panel of 50,000 SNP markers. This testing is currently only offered through NeoGen NEOGEN. When your animal is run on an LD Genotype it will also receive GE-EPDs and parent verification if the parents have DNA on file.
    3. The Ultra-Low Density (uLD) Genotype is a panel of 30,000 SNP markers at NEOGEN. When your animal is run on the uLD panel it will receive parent verification as well as GE-EPDs.
  4. What exactly do I get when my animal is genotyped?
    1. The first and most important thing that your animal will receive when genotyped on the HD or LD panel is GE-EPDs. GE-EPDs have increased accuracy over the general EPDs and ONLY animals that have been genotyped will receive these enhanced EPDs. Parentage Analysis is also included when having your animal genotyped, as long as the parents have DNA on file. There is no additional charge for parent verification when your animal is genotyped unless there is an issue with STR vs. SNP comparison, as discussed above. Only then would there be an additional charge to have that animal parent verified.
    2. Unlike when having an animal parent verified, there is no official report that you will receive when an animal is HD genotyped. Again, you will see the results of this test when the GE-EPDs are available. BBU will send you a confirmation report that simply states that your animals have successfully been genotyped and the information has been recorded with our geneticist.
  5. What does it mean when my animal comes back as DNA disputed?
    1. When you receive a DNA report that states that your animal is DNA disputed this means that the animal either did not qualify to the dam, to the sire or to both parents. When comparing SNP markers only 1-2 DNA exclusions is allowed and if there are any more than this the animal is considered excluded to that parent. This means that the sire or dam provided is not the correct parent of the calf.
  6. What is the process to resolve a DNA dispute?
    1. After receiving a DNA report that shows a DNA dispute the first step is to contact BBU. You will need to inform us of an alternate sire or dam to have the lab test against. If that parent has DNA on file to compare back to, the lab can run a re-look on your animal. If it does qualify back to that parent your next step would be to then return the certificate for the animal to have it corrected in the system. If that parent does not have DNA on file but you believe it is the only other possible option we can make the correction per the breeder’s authorization but cannot record the animal as parent verified as the parent does not have DNA on file to compare back to. In this case, you would still need to return the original certificate of that animal to have the parentage corrected.
  7. What if I have several different sire options that my calf could be out of? How do I apply for the DNA?
    1. If you have multiple sires that your calf could possibly be out of, DNA is the best way to accurately decipher which sire is the correct sire. You can submit a DNA sample for the calf and have it tested to the multiple sire options to see which sire qualifies.
    2. When submitting the DNA sample for the calf, on the submission paperwork you would list ALL possible sire options the calf could be out of. When the sample is submitted to the lab they will test the calf against each option, as long as that sire has DNA on file, and can tell you which sire is correct.
  8. My animal qualified to both the sire and dam on an individual basis but it is excluded at the mating pair (trio)? Why is this? How can this occur? How can I resolve the issue?
    1. This can happen in rare cases where the calf will qualify to the sire on an individual basis and the dam on the individual basis but will exclude at the mating pair. This means when the sire and dam were compared TOGETHER against the calf there were exclusion markers present. As this is a rare occurrence, it is handled on a case-by-case basis. Normally this happens because the actual sire or dam is closely related to the sire or dam that the calf was tested against. It could be a full sibling, half sibling, etc.
    2. The first step is that an alternate sire or dam option should be given to test against to see if we can get it to qualify. If the dispute is still not cleared up after trying several other options, it would be recommended that a new sample be submitted for the calf and possibly the sire and dam, if necessary.
  9. How do I get sample cards to submit for DNA testing?
    1. To request DNA sample cards or TSUs you can contact BBU at (210) 732-3132 or you can email bbudna@beefmasters.org. When requesting sample cards or TSUs we need to know which lab you are currently using, Zoetis or NEOGEN, how many cards or TSUs you would like, and if you would like blood cards or hair cards. When the sample cards are mailed out we also include the DNA Submission Paperwork. This is what needs to filled out, signed and submitted with the DNA cards after the sample has been collected.
Blood Sample Instructions
Print DNA FAQ

NEOGEN IS BEEFMASTER’S PREFERRED DNA VENDOR
Use the forms below to collect and submit your DNA to NEOGEN

NEOGEN DNA Submission Form
NEOGEN Tissue Sample Information
How To Collect DNA Samples

Collecting a DNA sample is easy, but collecting a good DNA sample is crucial to receiving prompt and accurate results. As a Beefmaster breeder it is required that DNA samples be collected and processed through Zoetis or NEOGEN on all embryo and semen donor dams and sires. The process of collecting quality DNA blood, hair or tissue samples is important to understand for all Beefmaster breeders. If a bad DNA sample is provided then the DNA-testing lab cannot efficiently extract the DNA. If you currently, or plan to in the future, collect DNA samples please become familiar with the instructions below. If you are more of a "see-then-do" learner, please view the Hair Sample How to Video or the Blood Sample How to Video.

If you need to order a DNA hair or blood kit, please contact the office at 210-732-3132 or bbudna@beefmasters.org.

How To Collect Blood Samples Using Blood Cards
Use a new needle, syringe or pin prick device for each animal. When collecting, packaging and submitting samples for DNA testing, it is critical to eliminate cross-contamination. Rinsing needles is not enough to prevent possible DNA residue. Please follow these simple steps to improve accuracy of test results:

  1. Verify the animal's tattoo and/or tag number and clearly record it on the blood card in the space provided. This ID will be used for reporting results, so it's important to double-check it for accuracy.
  2. Using a new needle or piercing device for each animal, prick a vein in the animal's ear. As blood forms at the site of the prick, open the blood card and touch it to the drop on the indicated square. Apply only enough blood to the card to fill the two squares outlined, but not so much that the card is soggy and overly saturated. Two or three heavy drops of blood per square is plenty. A syringe may also be used to collect and spot the blood cards.
  3. Next, bend the top flap of the card up so that the sample dries while the card is in an open position.
  4. Set the blood card aside with the top flap open until dry. Make sure that blood cards do not touch'this is a possible source of DNA cross-contamination. Also, do not dry blood cards in direct sunlight, as UV radiation destroys DNA.
  5. Once dry, rubber band closed blood cards together in batches of 10 ' 15 and combine several batches together into resealable plastic storage bags.
  6. Record the Animal ID along with other animal information on the Zoetis Sample Information Form or the NEOGEN DNA Submission Form, such that each sample can be correctly matched with each animal. Barcodes are assigned to the samples upon arrival in the lab.
  7. Send DNA sample to: Beefmaster Breeders United, P.O. Box 3790, Bryan, TX 77805.
Blood DNA Instructions
Blood Collection Procedure
Hair DNA Instructions
Hair Collection Procedure
Tissue Collection Instructions

How To Collect High-Quality Hair Root Samples
Collecting good hair root samples is crucial for reliable test results because bulbs are a reliable source of DNA. Proper collection will reduce the number of samples that fail in the lab due to insufficient quantity and quality of DNA.

Getting Started
To help assure the safety of the animal and the handler, properly restrain the animal with a halter, headlock, chute or whatever is most appropriate for the animal's size. Always wash your hands or use clean gloves. If you are using a device (e.g., hemostats), be sure to wipe it clean between animals. Additional attention must be used when collecting hair roots from calves under four (4) months of age, as adequate hair roots might be difficult to obtain.

Collecting The Hair Samples

Steps:

  1. Record the animal's tag number on the hair sample collector in the space provided. This animal ID will be used for reporting test results, so it's important to doublecheck for accuracy.
  2. While holding the end of the tail switch, pull a pencil-thickness tuft of hair (at least 20 ' 25 hair roots) from the tail switch, making sure hair roots are attached. Roots are under the skin of the tail and extract easily when pulled correctly. Pull the hair 'up and away' from the way it lays to get as many roots as possible. Always collect dry hair samples and make sure the roots are not contaminated with feces. Hair root samples also may be obtained from other sources, such as ears or tailhead.
  3. Open the hair sample collector completely. Place the hair on the back of the printed flap of the collector as shown, with roots close to the joined end. Peel off the backing paper, starting from the joined end, to expose the sticky backing of the flap.
  4. Press the sticky plastic side down on top of the hair roots. Make sure the edges of the plastic are sealed around the collector. Also, verify that the roots are covered.
  5. Trim the excess hair to the edges of the sample collector. Place the collectors in bundles of 10 ' 15 in a resealable plastic storage bag.
  6. Record the Animal ID along with other animal information on the Zoetis Sample Information Form or the NEOGEN DNA Submission Form, such that each sample can be correctly matched with each animal. Barcodes are assigned to the samples upon arrival in the lab.
  7. Send DNA sample to Beefmaster Breeders United,
    P.O. Box 3790,
    Bryan, TX 77805.

How To Collect Tissue Samples

  1. Remove a TSU punch from the packaging. Punches should be assembled as one piece; if they have come apart, reassemble. Open the tube retainer at the base of the applicator by pushing the retainer clip.
  2. Insert the punch into the applicator. Release the clip to lock punch into the device. Carefully squeeze the applicator handles together, guiding the punch tip into place if necessary. When the gun bolt rests flush against the red plastic clip, release the handle.
  3. Remove the red plastic clip by pulling it outward. Be careful as the metal cutter above the clip is very sharp. Ensure the applicator is loaded with an unused punch (if the red plunger is visible, the punch is used and should be replaced with one that is unused).
  4. Slide the applicator over the animal’s ear and position the metal cutter one inch from the edge of the ear, making sure to avoid any obvious veins or ridges. Squeeze handles together to take a sample and then release to free the ear. Try to do this in one swift, fluid motion.
  5. Remove the punch from the applicator and check that sampling has been successful. If not, discard the sample and proceed with a new punch. Remove the used cutter from the applicator by pulling the handles apart. Discard carefully as the cutter is very sharp.
  6. Record the Animal ID along with other animal information on the Zoetis Sample Information Form or the NEOGEN DNA Submission Form, such that each sample can be correctly matched with each animal. Barcodes are assigned to the samples upon arrival in the lab.
  7. Send DNA sample to Beefmaster Breeders United,
    P.O. Box 3790,
    Bryan, TX 77805.

DNA Testing Annoucements
Blood cards for NEOGEN are $1.00/blood card. Hair cards for NEOGEN are $1.00/hair card and a $7.00 processing fee per sample. This is an additional fee to the actual DNA test, not included. Along with blood and hair samples, we also accept tissue samples. We do have the Allflex Tissue Sampling Unit (TSUs) available in the office for purchase. The Allflex tissue applicator is $50.00. The Allflex TSU Kits are $30/per box and there are 10 punches in each box.

E6 FEMALE

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The "BBU Essential Commercial Female Program" is a prime example of "expanding the market" for Beefmaster cattle. The program, referred to as the E-6 program, focuses attention on the strong maternal traits of Beefmaster cattle and helps commercial cattlemen develop stronger markets and greater value for their Beefmaster and Beefmaster cross heifers. The word "essential" is included in the name because of the six essentials upon which the breed was founded - weight, conformation, milk production, fertility, disposition and hardiness.

IMPORTANT: YOU MUST BE A CURRENT DUES PAID MEMBER TO REGISTER CATTLE WITH BBU.

EAR TAGS

The Beefmaster Breeders United (BBU) ear tag program is designed to add more value to your high quality Beefmaster and Beefmaster cross calves. These “Original Z1 No-Snag-Tag” one-piece Z Tags are available through the BBU office and they will help identify the calves you sell as being Beefmaster and/or Beefmaster influenced animals.

Superior retention. Foolproof one-piece ear tag design ensures that back of tag will not snag and pull out or break off. No more torn ears.

Outstanding readability. Dark laser printing and long neck calf tags make Z Tags easier to read from front or back.

Easier application. Patented Z1 No-Snag-Tagger is designed for fast and easy tagging. Unique pivoting Z1 No-Snag-Tagger pin makes loading ear tags easy while eliminating ripped ears.

Reduced risk of infection. Exclusive self-piercing tag tip makes a clean, precise incision to prevent infection and promote faster healing.

Benefits include:

  • Breed identification anywhere, anytime
  • The front of the tag is available for you to write your own ID numbers.
  • Potential to increase market value
  • Provides advertisement for the Beefmaster breed

Ear tags are currently available through contacting the BBU office at 210-732-3132 or info@beefmast ers.org. These Beefmaster ear tags cost $1.75 each plus shipping. Please note that these tags are one-piece Z Tags and require a specific tagging gun. Tagging guns are available for $25.00 plus shipping through the BBU office also. The minimum ear tag order is 25 tags and the ear tags will be shipped when payment is received.

Beefmaster Ear Tag Program

ET

Embryo Transfer (ET) is an advanced reproductive technology and a progressive tool that can help you produce more offspring from an elite cow and can extend the impact of outstanding cattle genetics.

Summary
Embryo transfer (ET) is widely used in the beef industry today to mass replicate specific genetics. There is no faster way to generate large numbers of progeny from a particular mating than through one of the embryo transfer programs. No matter if it is conventional ET or if you are using Invitro Fertilization (IVF) you can mass produce progeny in a shorter period of time that all come from the exact same genetics. The ET program has allowed breeders the opportunity to produce more highly sought after genetics and high performing progeny that the market demands.

ET Registration Rules
All donor dams must have a HD Genotype on file with BBU through a BBU approved genomic services vendor.

  1. Effective August 1, 2016 all donor dams must be parent verified using DNA SNPs before progeny can be registered. BBU will handle older STR and Blood Typing parentage methods on a case by case basis. Donor dams with E.T. progeny registered in the BBU system before August 1, 2016 will be exempted from the Parent Verification requirement.
  2. Progeny that are the result of traditional E.T. are not required to be parentage verified.
  3. As of 1/1/2021 All calves from embryo transfer whether traditional flush or IVF flush must have a genotype on file prior to registration.
  4. When the ownership of a donor dam changes after embryos have been recovered, the owner of the dam at the time the embryos were recovered shall retain the ownership and certification rights of said embryos.
  5. Immediately upon the sale (or change of ownership) of an embryo (frozen or fresh), seller must submit to BBU a properly completed BBU Embryo Bill of Sale Form.
  6. Immediately upon the sale (or change of ownership) of a pregnant recipient cow, seller must complete and sign the applicable Recipient Transfer Form. This completed form must then be submitted to BBU for recording of the Recipient Transfer. Only the owner of the Recipient cow at the time of birth shall be eligible to certify said calf.
  7. Rules and Regulations of the BBU Artificial Insemination Program will apply to all sires used in the Embryo Transfer Program.

Fill out this pdf completely, save your file, attach in an email and send to cosbourn@beefmasters.org, subject line ET BOS.

Embryo Bill of Sale Form
Protocols

GENETIC EVALUATION

Over the past 40 years, EPDs have proven their effectiveness in changing beef cattle as breeders are better able to select superior animals. EPDs are especially effective in allowing breeders to compare their cattle to animals from other herds, a task not possible with regular phenotypes. The recent inclusion of genomics into the BBU EPDs, as well as the addition of calving ease EPDs, has enhanced a breeder’s ability to make superior selection decisions. The 2022 Fall Genetic Evaluation is now available at www.beefmasters.org. This summary compiles the massive amounts of data collected by Beefmaster breeders, as well as the more recently collected genomic results, into the best possible predictions of each animal’s genetic merit.

For an Active Sire to be published in the Genetic Evaluation, he must have an accuracy of 60% for weaning weight. Young Sires are bulls under five years of age (born after Jan 1, 2018). Young Sires must have an accuracy of 30% for weaning weight and a minimum of 10 progeny records. All information on all traits for Active and Young Sires has been printed, provided they have met accuracy requirements for weaning weight. Sires that have not had any offspring born in 2019, 2020 or 2021 are considered inactive sires and have been deleted from the Sire Summary. A list of trait leaders has also been included, presenting the top 15 sires for each trait with a minimum accuracy of 60% for that trait and at least 5 records for that trait (on growth traits only). Scrotal and scan trait leaders must have a minimum accuracy of 50% for that trait with no minimum record requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Breed Averages
Percentile Rank - Non Parent
Percentile Rank - Active Sires
Percentile Rank - Active Dams
Genetic Trends Graphically
Genetic Trends
Trait Leaders
Active Sires
Young Sires

PACESETTER

The Pacesetter program is designed to recognize Beefmaster cattle that excel in performance as part of the Weights and Measures Program. When you see one star beside the name of a sire or dam in a pedigree, this is the designation of a Pacesetter sire or dam. You may have seen these stars in the past and been unsure of what they meant. By the end of this article, you'll be able to understand and appreciate the production goals that a sire or dam had to accomplish to receive this honored designation.

In order for a female to be recognized as a Pacesetter, she must meet all of the following requirements:

  • She must be a Second Cross or purebred Beefmaster female.
  • She must calve by 30 months of age, and this calf must be enrolled in the BBU Weights & Measures program to establish the cow’s age at calving, as well as calving interval data.
  • She must have three (3) consecutive natural or AI calves with an average calving interval of 375 days or less, OR one (1) natural calf followed by one (1) embryo calf with a calving interval of 375 days or less.
  • She must have three (3) natural calves with weaning weight ratios of 105 or better in their respective contemporary group, OR one (1) natural calf and three (3) embryo calves with weaning weight ratios of 105 or better in their contemporary group.  To qualify, there must be at least five (5) animals in the contemporary group of each offspring.
  • She must rank in the top 50% of the breed for four of the following six EPDs: Weaning Weight, Yearling Weight, REA, MARB, $T and $M
  • She must be scanned for ultrasound carcass measurements

The cow herself is not required to have individual weights and measures data for her performance of weaning weight. The cow's calves must be enrolled in the Weights and Measures program and all of her progeny data must be entered into the program before the third calf is born.

For a sire to be recognized as a Pacesetter sire, he must sire five (5) females who have been recognized as Pacesetter dams.

As you can see, the qualifications of the Pacesetter program require a female to have her first calf on time, produce a calf that is the near the top of its contemporary group, and continue to do so in future production years. The Pacesetter program is designed to recognize hard-working, productive cows (and the bulls that sire those cows) in your herd. In order for your cattle to be recognized as Pacesetters, it's important to be turning in your performance records to BBU!

TYPESETTER

As you study Beefmaster sale catalogs, you will notice cattle throughout pedigrees with anywhere from one to three little stars beside their names. What does all this mean? These are designations of cattle that qualify for the Beefmaster Breeders United (BBU) Pacesetter and Typesetter programs. Animals with one star are designated Pacesetters (more on this program at a later date). Sires and dams with two stars are Typesetters, and those lucky enough to have three stars are both Pacesetter and Typesetter qualifiers. In this article, we will focus on what it takes for an animal to become a Typesetter sire or dam.

The Typesetter program allows breeders to identify cattle who have consistently produced offspring that achieved certain scores for conformation and underline in the BBU Classification program. Many Beefmaster breeders see Typesetter cattle in a pedigree and immediately think predictability. The ability of a sire or dam to consistently produce quality offspring and become a Typesetter adds documented proof of performance and value to their offspring.

For a bull to become a Typesetter sire, he must have 50 offspring that have been classified 'U' with a conformation score of 1 or 2, with an underline score of 1, 2, or 3. There are several opportunities for a cow to become a Typesetter dam. Females who only have natural calves can qualify, as well as cows used as donors in an embryo transfer program. For a cow to reach the Typesetter designation, she must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Three natural offspring that are classified 'U' with a score of 1 or 2 for conformation and an underline score of 1, 2, or 3.
  • One natural and four embryo offspring that are classified 'U' with a score of 1 or 2 for conformation and an underline score of 1, 2, or 3.
  • Two natural and two embryo offspring that have been classified 'U' with a score of 1 or 2 for conformation and an underline score of 1, 2, or 3.

As you can tell, the key to having your animals designated as Typesetters is to participate in the BBU Voluntary Classification program. In order to be classified with conformation and underline scores, cattle must be at least 13 months of age. Registration certificates or applications for registration must be available to the classifier at the time of classification. If at all possible, cattle should be penned in a working corral, to make it easier to evaluate animals up close.

Fees for classification are $350 or $5/head, whichever is greater. If you and another nearby breeder would like to work together and schedule a visit at the same time, fees for visits can be split between both parties.

BBU PRO SERVICES

CATTLE RECORD KEEPING AND CONSULTING SERVICES
Pro Services is a new program designed to allow members to take advantage of BBU's expertise in performance records, basic herd management, data entry, report building and other areas of technical expertise demanded by today's fast paced seedstock industry.

BBU members who utilize Pro Services will have beef industry professionals visit their ranch twice a year for a one on one consultation and assistance with the most complicated aspect of the purebred industry: record keeping. Pro Services will update your inventory, register your calves and enter all of your performance data. This will allow you over time to improve your herd's performance and phenotypic quality.

While everyone knows records are important, they are only one part of a successful breeding program. Pro Services members can utilize the experience of BBU staff to help improve herd management. Herd management is the most important, value influencing area that most BBU members need assistance with. Pro Services is here to help build your herd foundation with assistance in vaccination protocols, management calendars and planning your herd's long term future.

  • Do you need another set of eyes on your herd?
  • Can’t decide if a specific bull calf should be culled or consigned to a bull development program?

Pro Services will assist in making those culling decisions that will result in positive gains to your bottom line. Are you thinking about classifying your herd? Classification services is provided as a standard option for Pro Services members.Pro Services will assist in making those culling decisions that will result in positive gains to your bottom line. Are you thinking about classifying your herd? Classification services is provided as a standard option for Pro Services members.

You're probably wondering if Pro Services is affordable. Absolutely. Pro Services is actually a value adding enterprise for your operation. Fees are based on the number of breeding age females (14 months and older) that will be enrolled in the records keeping program.

The value of the information that will derive from accurate record keeping will easily outweigh your investment. Technical services such as contemporary grouping, making sure calves are weighed in the proper age windows and getting carcass ultrasound scans completed will add a lot value to your Beefmaster herd. On the cattle management side, the economics of basic practices will add pounds and marketability to your cattle and will be a great investment in your future as a Beefmaster breeder.

CALL BBU TODAY FOR DETAILS: LANCE BAUER: 210-464-1309

ACTIVE FEMALES PRO SERVICES CHARGE
200-250 $2,250
150-200 $2,000
101-150 $1,500
76-100 $1,250
51-75 $1,000
26-50 $875
25 $750

ULTRASOUND

Ultrasound provides a non-invasive, cost effective means of improving carcass merit in your seedstock Beefmaster cattle. Ultrasound measurements provide an effective way of improving the accuracy of the ultrasound EPDs. BBU requires that all ultrasound data be collected by an Ultrasound Guidelines Council (UGC) Certified Field Technician and interpreted by a UGC Certified Lab Technician -- you can download a list of certified UGC technicians.

BBU cattle (males and females) must be scanned between the ages of 320 and 500 days of age. Starting September 1, 2024 the age window will be from 320 to 450 days of age.. Additionally, you must have a weaning weight recorded on the animal for the data to be included in the BBU Genetic Evaluation.

It is the breeders responsibility to get an ultrasound barnsheet from the BBU office prior to the technician scanning the cattle. All animals must be registered at the time of scanning and either have a certificate (C) or performance only (P) number.

Contact BBU office for pre-filled form for specific calf crops if desired
Ultrasound Scanning / Barn Worksheet

UPGRADING

This program allows you to upgrade commercial cows to purebred Beefmasters through a three-generation top-crossing system. It allows you to make the transition to purebreds using your existing cow herd. The first step is to become a member of BBU. To do this, complete the enclosed membership application and return it to us with the annual membership dues of $125.00. When you become a member, and you want to participate in the Upgrading Program, contact the office to obtain the Ranch Visit Request form, complete it and return it to us. Upon receipt of the form, one of our BBU Fieldmen will schedule a date to visit your operation and inspect your cows. He will need to see each cow individually and will accept all those cows which he feels have adequate frame, correct structure, good udders and adequate muscling.

Those cows he accepts will be recorded as Base Cows. This inspection will cost you $3.00 per head or $250.00 whichever is greater. Base Cows are then bred to a certified Beefmaster bull which has been inspected by a BBU Fieldman. This inspection can be done when you have your Base Cows inspected. The heifer calves from these matings will become eligible for inspection as First Cross Beefmasters when they become at least 8 months of age. A BBU Fieldman will again visit your ranch at your request and inspect the heifers for approval as First Crosses. Those he approves will apply for papers on them. The inspection will again cost you $3.00 per head and the registration papers will cost $15.00. You will then breed these First Crosses to a certified Beefmaster bull, and their heifer calves will be eligible for inspection as Second Cross Beefmasters when they reach 8 months of age.

Once again you will request a BBU Fieldman to visit your operation and inspect the heifers. This inspection will cost $3.00 per head and the registration papers on the 2C heifer will cost $15.00. Once your Second Crosses have been approved, they are basically the equivalent of a purebred Beefmaster, as both their male and female offspring are eligible for registration with BBU as purebred Beefmasters without inspection. As you can see, you can make this conversion at a relatively low investment and will be adding equity to your herd as soon as you make the initial inspection. The key to the success of the program, however, is the use of good bulls. You cannot use an average bull and expect above average results, especially as you move away from the hybrid vigor of a crossbred and into the more concentrated genetics of a purebred.
Ranch Visit Request Form

WEIGHTS & MEASURES

This is a simple, fast and effective performance testing program developed by BBU for use by its members. It includes computer analysis and printout of 205-day adjusted weight, 365-day adjusted weight, and sire / dam summaries. Information from the program is used in BBU’s Genetic Evaluation which is published twice a year. The Genetic Evaluation includes EPDs for birth weight, weaning weight, yearling weight, scrotum circumference and maternal traits. Interim or non-parent EPDs are available on young animals not included in the Genetic Evaluation. Since the early 1990s, participation in Weights & Measures has increased significantly, greatly increasing the amount and accuracy of performance information available both to breeders and buyers of Beefmasters.

BBU's Pacesetter Award is based on information taken from the Weights & Measures Program. This award recognizes bulls and females which have produced top performing calves. This award is designated on the animal's certificate of breeding with one asterisk (*)

If you would like to participate in the Weights & Measures program, please use the worksheets below to submit weaning and/or yearling data on your cattle. You can also submit weaning and/or yearling data through our online system.

Weaning Worksheet
Yearling Worksheet
Age Windows

WHR / IBR

WHR (Whole Herd Reporting) and IBR (Inventory Based Reporting) inventories are available to update online starting in December of the current year. If you would prefer completing WHR/IBR inventory via hard copy and NOT online, please contact our office for a hard copy version of your inventory. Please note, hard copy inventories will not be mailed out unless requested by the member.

The IBR inventories must be completed and submitted to the BBU office by February 1st. An additional $5 per head will be assessed for the IBR inventories returned after February 1st.

The WHR inventories must be completed and submitted to the BBU office by May 1st. An additional $5 per head will be assessed for the WHR inventories returned after May 1st.

Please note if you are participating in a spring sale, your WHR or IBR inventory needs to be updated and returned prior to registering any animals born in current WHR/IBR inventory year. BBU members who are interested in enrolling in the WHR or IBR programs, but are not currently participating, please contact the BBU office at 210-732-3132 or info@beefmasters.org.

WHR
The optional Whole Herd Reporting (WHR) program at Beefmaster Breeders United accounts for all animals produced in your herd. This allows for a more complete performance database which in turn leads to a more accurate genetic evaluation. WHR reporting entails an accurate inventory of reproducing females and the outcome of that process. The females on inventory must have a weaned calf weight or a calf disposal code reported with the BBU office. A birth weight or calving ease score, and any other performance measure that would enhance the overall data base and genetic evaluation, are encouraged but are not required. For more information and/or to enroll in WHR, please contact Lance Bauer.

WHR Reminders And Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations Related to Certification of Calves Sired Artificially

Inventory Based Reporting
The Inventory Based Reporting (IBR) program is designed for the members that want to report data on all of their calves and submit a registration application on only a portion of those calves. This program should be used if you want to supply an updated animal inventory each year and have free performance data submission.

  • A completed cow inventory (females 15 months or older on January 1st that year) is due by February 1st each year.
  • Each cow listed on the updated inventory will be assessed an annual fee which includes a free registration for her calf that year.
  • Additionally, performance data can be submitted on her and/or her calf that year at no additional cost.
  • A reduced transfer fee is included on her calf that year up to 30 months of age under this option.
  • A completed cow inventory submitted after February 1st each year will be assessed a per animal fee which includes a free registration, performance data submission and a reduced transfer fee up to 30 months of age for her calf born that year.

The IBR program will benefit members allowing them reduced costs when they collect performance data on all calves but may only want to receive registration certificates and transfer a smaller portion of the calf crop.

Notes:
Remember to use the appropriate disposal codes! Only use the disposal codes as they apply to the animals you are removing. DO NOT remove females as long as you will be applying for registration on calves out of that female.

When selling an animal with registration papers use the 'T' (Sold with Papers) for a disposal code so the animal will not be deactivated. A list of disposal codes can be found on page 7 of the WHR manual.

WHR Manual
How BBU Defines Contemporary Groups
BBU Reference Codes
Udder and Teat Scoring System
Beefmaster Foot Scoring Guidelines