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Buck Performance Test
The Buck Performance Test, following ABGA Rule 1200, evaluates registered Boer bucks for growth, feed efficiency, and carcass merit. This assessment helps breeders identify top-performing genetics to enhance herd productivity and profitability.
Dakota Meat Goat Buck Performance Test Results
Summary of Test Conditions and Observations
The bucks consigned to the NDSU Buck Test experienced several factors that may have influenced average daily gain and overall performance metrics. Upon commencement of the trial, animals exhibited limited adaptation to group housing and the initial feed ration. After 28 days, performance evaluations indicated that the original ration was not meeting desired performance parameters. As a result, the ration was changed, introducing an additional transition period for the test group.
Adaptation issues were also observed with the feed efficiency bunk system. A portion of the test group did not acclimate to this feeding method, necessitating the discontinuation of the feed efficiency measurement component. These conditions may have contributed to variability and reduced performance in certain individuals.
Acknowledgements and Future Recommendations
The American Boer Goat Association acknowledges and appreciates NDSU’s role in hosting the test and providing technical guidance. Based on the observations from this trial, modifications to management and feeding protocols will be implemented in future tests to minimize adaptation challenges and optimize conditions for evaluating genetic performance potential. The ABGA also wants to thank each of the producers who consigned a buck to the test and congratulate those producers who had high performing animals.
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Click here to view all 2025 Dakota Meat Goat Buck Test results and info.
ABGA Rule 1200 – Buck Performance Test Requirements
Test Eligibility
Open to registered Boer bucks.
Bucks must be registered before the test ends.
Test Duration
Standard performance test lasts 84 days.
Data Collection
Measures include:
Growth rate
Feed efficiency
Carcass merit
Test Standards
Test must be conducted at a recognized facility.
Testing facility must follow ABGA’s approved protocol.
Data Use
Results help identify bucks with strong genetic potential.
Supports breeding decisions and herd improvement.
Compliance
Only tests meeting Rule 1200 criteria are recognized by ABGA.
To view Rule 1200 in full, visit our Rules and Regulations page.
2025 Dakota Meat Goat Buck Performance Test
ABGA is collaborating with North Dakota State University to bring back a Performance Buck Test for producers.
The 2025 Dakota Meat Goat Buck Performance Test at Hettinger Research Center, North Dakota will evaluate bucks on post-weaning growth, feed efficiency and carcass characteristics to help drive breed improvement. As an ABGA approved Performance Test, bucks can earn points towards Ennoblement, Sire of Merit or Doe of Excellence!
If you have questions about the buck test, or may be interested in consigning to it, please click the link below the flyer to fill out an informational form. This will allow us to follow up with you with more information as we get closer to the test.
For more information about the 2025 Dakota Meat Goat Buck Performance Test visit:
2025 Dakota Meat Goat Buck Performance Test
A buck performance test is a valuable tool for goat breeders to measure the genetic potential of young bucks. By evaluating traits like growth rate, feed efficiency, and muscle development in a controlled environment, breeders can identify the top-performing animals in their herd. This helps make informed breeding decisions, improve herd quality, and increase productivity. Buck tests also provide objective, data-backed results that support marketing and selection of superior genetics.
Buck Test News & Updates
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