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especially if there are plans to retain any cattle as breeding animals. As I mentioned, the association is working on building reli- able and accountable EPDs. Recording cor- rect birth weights, horned status, calving ease, weaning weights and weaning dates will help contribute to the production of Akaushi EPDs. Color code and calving-ease scores can be found on the reverse side of the submission form. The American Akaushi Association is excited to see new DNA coming through our doors daily. Submitting the correct information aides in the efficiency of our DNA verification process. If additional information is ever needed, the association will reach out via phone or email. However, if there are ever any questions about the DNA information recording process, please do not hesitate to email any of the team members or give the office a call. PT

AKAUSHI MATTERS Continued from page 10

Dam’s Breed The back of the DNA submission form lists several breed codes. This information will help further record the offspring’s cor- rect pedigree. Sire Registration Number The sire registration number or ID is pos- sibly the most important information need- ed in order to help ensure timely results. With the correct potential sires listed, the association will not have to take the time to cross the offspring against all possible sires within the system. Additionally, since the STR and SNP DNA profile tests are not com- patible, the association needs to know which bulls were exposed in order to check which type of DNA profile the bull has. If we are not aware, the association will most likely run a dual test, which will ultimately add more time to the DNA-verification process. Optional Information Yes, this section of the DNA submission form is optional; however, it is very helpful

IRONS IN THE FIRE Continued from page 14

calves to order buyer Bob last year, don’t sell to him this year. Don’t keep the wound

open by trying to get even. Get over it and move on. Keep the scar and leave the wound behind. Similarly, the cattle in- dustry has received some pretty nasty wire cuts over the last decade. It seems to me, though, that we’ve re- sponded pretty well to our medication. The scar left from bovine spongiform en- cephalopathy is still there, and it’ll always be there, but it’s not an open wound and it’s not what defines our industry. What defines us as cattlemen and agricul- turists is how we respond to and heal from our wounds. Let that be said of each of us individually, as well. Wear your scars with pride. Just don’t open them up again. PT

NOW SELLING PRIVATE TREATY OPUS FARMS NEW MARKET, TENN.

o Fullblood bulls o Embryos: Big Al x Heartbrand 753Y o Percentage females

OPUS FARMS Terrence Bailiff (423) 231-6520 coacht27211@yahoo.com

Akaushi Prime Time • Summer 2019

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