American Boer Goat Association: Protecting, promoting, and recording the American Boer Goat breed. 2025 ABGA & JABGA National Show May 28 - June 8, 2025 Kentucky Exposition Center • Louisville, Kentucky More info BANDERAS BÓER Promote your sale on our Events Calendar! Are you an ABGA member? Share your barn sales, online sales, in-person sales, single and multi-consignor sales at no additional cost! Promote your sale! The American Boer Goat Association will protect the core values and traits that make the Boer Goat the premier meat goat breed in America through promotion and recording of the breed. BANDERAS BÓER Congratulations to the newly elected Board Members! 15 may 2025 7 Open Meeting 05-13-2025 9 may 2025 143 2025 Annual Membership Meeting 7 may 2025 111 Load More NUESTROS COMPAÑEROS iCompete Renew your membership, register and transfer animals, download temporary certificates, view show results, and more! Go to iCompete Submit Work Need to submit registration docs, transfer forms, changes to your ABGA account, or additional tasks for the ABGA office to complete? Submit a Work Order Join ABGA Annual Adult Memberships run from January 1 to December 31, and are $75 annually. Join ABGA Renew your membership Renew with your existing email on file with our new member software iCompete. Renew Request DNA Testing Members and non-members can request DNA testing at a set price from ABGA and UC Davis. Request DNA View Show Results View past ABGA & JABGA Sanctioned and Regional Show results on iCompete. See results Office Updates Keep up with announcements, reminders, events, and more from the ABGA office. The office is currently working on work orders received on: 29 de abril de 2025 Updated 5/15/2025 15 may 2025 Congratulations to the newly elected Board Members! 9 may 2025 Open Meeting 05-13-2025 7 may 2025 2025 Annual Membership Meeting View all Office Updates

Need to submit registration docs, transfer forms, changes to your ABGA account, or additional tasks for the ABGA office to complete? Complete the work order form, and upload your documents. Submit a Work Order Submit registration documents, forms, changes to your ABGA account, and additional tasks for the ABGA office to complete. Para garantizar la autenticidad, la ABGA solo aceptará FOTOS de los Certificados de Registro. No aceptaremos certificados escaneados. Siga los pasos a continuación antes de enviar un Certificado de registro. 29 abr 2025 Para garantizar la autenticidad, la ABGA solo aceptará FOTOS de los Certificados de Registro. No aceptaremos certificados escaneados. Siga los pasos a continuación antes de enviar un Certificado de registro. ¿Presentación de un certificado de registro? Para garantizar la autenticidad, la ABGA solo aceptará FOTOS de los Certificados de Registro. No aceptaremos certificados escaneados. Siga los pasos a continuación antes de enviar un Certificado de registro.

Boer Goat Nation, hosted by Drew Williams and Jason Brashear, 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. 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. You can watch the monthly updates below.

The American Boer Goat Association identifies animals based on age and ownership tattoos in the right and left ear of the animal. These tattoos must follow ABGA rules and guidelines. Todas las cabras deben estar tatuadas en el momento de la solicitud de registro. Cada cabra debe tener una secuencia de tatuaje única. El PREFIJO DEL REBAÑO del solicitante se tatuará en la oreja derecha de todas las cabras presentadas para el registro. (Si una hembra se vende a un nuevo propietario durante la preñez, las crías resultantes de esa preñez deberán tener el prefijo del rebaño del propietario de la hembra en broma tatuado en la oreja derecha de cada cría presentada para el registro). En la oreja izquierda de todos los chivos que se presenten para el registro, se tatuará una letra para indicar el año de nacimiento del animal, seguida de un número de serie para designar el orden de nacimiento. ( Ver letras de tatuaje ABGA ). ABGA no registrará ninguna cabra con el mismo tatuaje (combinación de tatuajes en la oreja derecha e izquierda) dentro de un período de 22 años. La identificación con microchip implantado de forma permanente será aceptada por ABGA como identificación oficial además de, o en lugar de, los tatuajes. Letras de tatuaje ABGA 2025 R 2024 P 2023 N 2022 M 2021 L Year Letter Vista Consejos para tatuar con éxito a sus cabras Cabestro o bozal al animal, si es necesario. Inserte los símbolos correctos en los alicates. Compruebe la exactitud de los símbolos haciendo una marca en una hoja de papel. Frote la tinta en la piel, eligiendo un área libre de pecas y verrugas, si es posible. Coloque los símbolos paralelos y entre las venas o el cartílago de la oreja o las venas de la red de la cola. La pasta verde es mucho mejor para la identificación de tatuajes permanentes, particularmente cuando el tejido que recibe el tatuaje es negro o muy oscuro. No toque el área hasta que se complete el proceso de curación, que puede ser de cinco a veintiún días. Mantenga una lista de números de tatuajes con nombres de animales e ingréselo en su registro de cría privado. Para leer el tatuaje en un animal de orejas oscuras, sostenga una linterna encendida contra la parte exterior de la oreja. Equipo necesario: bicarbonato de sodio, dígitos para tatuajes, números y alfabeto, tinta para tatuajes (pasta o roll-on; el verde es el más versátil), alicates para tatuajes, toallitas húmedas, cepillo de dientes y toalla. Limpia el oído. Frote la mitad de la oreja con una toallita. Seque bien la oreja. Aplicar tinta en la oreja. Tatúa la oreja con unos alicates para tatuajes. Empuje hacia abajo con fuerza. El prefijo del rebaño va en el oído derecho, y la letra del año y el número de la cabra van en el oído izquierdo. Aplique más tinta. Aplica bicarbonato de sodio. Aplique bicarbonato de sodio en el área tatuada. Producto terminado después de un año. Tattoo Guidelines ABGA identifies animals by their left and right ear tattoos These tattoos must follow ABGA rules and guidelines.

American Boer Goat Association members can renew their membership online at any time. Allow 3-5 days for renewal processing. Membership Renewal Membership with the American Boer Goat Association has its benefits for you and your herd. To ensure uninterrupted access to these benefits, renew your membership today. Renewing can be done online on your iCompete account or by printing and completing the renewal form. Renew on iCompete Renewing your account on iCompete is the recommended way to renew. Your membership is renewed instantly, and you will have immediate access to your iCompete account. Go to iCompete Haven't setup your iCompete account yet? Click HERE for instructions, or visit our iCompete page for tutorials, and more! Don't plan on using iCompete? Download a fillable PDF renewal form HERE , or click the button below to renew using our digital form. Renew

The Boer Breed is dedicated to educational resources about meat goats and the boer goat breed. INFORMACIÓN BÓER Breed Standards View ABGA breed standards for registered American Boer goats. View Breed Standards Tattoo Guidelines Learn more about ABGA’s tattoo guidelines for registered animals. View Tattoo Guidelines Gestation Calculator Use this handy calculator to estimate an animal’s kidding date based on exposure dates. View Gestation Calculator RECIPES Easy Goat Enchiladas See Recipe Stir-Fry Chevon with Green Onions See Recipe Goat Jerky See Recipe See All Recipes The DNA Program Explained Learn more about ABGA's DNA program. View DNA Program Holiday Marketing Calendar Goat meat has grown in popularity in the United States thanks to ethnic markets which center their goat consumption around specific religious and cultural holidays. View Calendar Boer Info Boer Info is dedicated to educational resources about meat goats and the Boer breed. View Boer Info USDA Market Reports Reports provide farmers, producers, and agribusinesses with crucial data for market analysis, trend identification, purchasing decisions, price monitoring, equipment needs assessment, and accurate movement evaluation. View NLPA Sheep & Goat Fund The NLPA Sheep and Goat Fund is a revolving fund established within NLPA to assist the U.S. sheep and goat industries by strengthening and enhancing the production and marketing of sheep and goats and their products in the United States. View

American Boer Goat Association members and non-members can request DNA testing at a set price from ABGA and UC Davis. SOLICITUD PRUEBAS DE ADN Updates ACTUALIZACIONES DE ADN ABGA El tiempo de respuesta actual de UC Davis es 15-20 días hábiles a partir de la fecha de recepción de la muestra. Si las muestras requieren pruebas adicionales, los resultados tardarán entre 3 y 4 semanas más allá de los 10 a 15 días hábiles. A partir del 1 de enero de 2022, ya no enviaremos calcomanías de ADN. Los resultados se enviarán por correo electrónico, a menos que se solicite. Si desea que la calificación de ADN se refleje en el Certificado de registro de su cabra, envíe el certificado a la oficina de ABGA. Se cobrará una tarifa de reemisión del certificado de $5. Inscripciones Payment must be included to receive the DNA Sample Instructions. $33 Per Animal DNA test request for non-members or members with outstanding membership dues. Payment must be included to receive the DNA Sample Instructions. $38 Per Animal PRECIO 2022 [El pago debe incluirse con el formulario para recibir el kit de muestra] $33 / solicitud de prueba de ADN para miembros [el número de miembro debe incluirse para obtener el precio de miembro] $38 / solicitud de prueba de ADN para no miembros INSTRUCCIONES [Todos los elementos requeridos deben completarse por completo.] Identificación: El ADN de todas las cabras analizadas a través de ABGA debe tener una identificación de ABGA, como su nombre y marcas o tatuajes de identificación. Verificación de los padres: si está solicitando la verificación de los padres, marque el tipo de verificación (ya sea padre, madre o ambos) y ASEGÚRESE de completar el número de registro del padre y/o madre y el número de identificación del caso del Laboratorio de Genética Veterinaria (VGL). Si no tiene un número de identificación de caso de VGL, debe comprar las instrucciones para muestras de ADN para cada padre que esté verificando. TIEMPO DE PROCESAMIENTO UC Davis le enviará por CORREO ELECTRÓNICO las instrucciones de su muestra de ADN a su dirección de correo electrónico dentro de los tres (3) días hábiles posteriores al envío EN LÍNEA a ABGA. [Si no proporcionó una dirección de correo electrónico, se le enviarán por correo las instrucciones para la muestra de ADN.] Si no recibe las Instrucciones para la muestra de ADN dentro de los 3 días hábiles, REVISE SU CORREO ELECTRÓNICO NO RESERVADO . Si no está allí, comuníquese con la oficina de ABGA al (325) 486-2242 o envíe un correo electrónico a dna@abga.org . EXTRACCIÓN Y ENVÍO DE MUESTRA DE CABELLO [Las instrucciones de la muestra de ADN incluyen instrucciones sobre cómo tirar del cabello para la prueba y enviarlo a UC Davis]. Asegúrese de obtener las raíces de la muestra de cabello. Asegúrese de utilizar un sobre de papel limpio. Asegúrese de escribir la información de la cabra en el sobre [nombre, número de registro, su nombre]. Envíe la muestra de ADN a UC Davis siguiendo las instrucciones de las Instrucciones para la muestra de ADN. recibiste Envíe la confirmación a ABGA. [De la Regla 802–I de ABGA] En los casos en que la parte que presenta la solicitud no es el propietario del registro, se requiere un vial, pajilla u otro recipiente sin abrir que contenga semen que haya sido identificado de acuerdo con la Regla 401.B para que los resultados de la prueba de ADN ser aceptado por ABGA. PRECIO 2022 [El pago debe incluirse con el formulario para recibir el kit de muestra] $33 / solicitud de prueba de ADN para miembros [el número de miembro debe incluirse para obtener el precio de miembro] $38 / solicitud de prueba de ADN para no miembros INSTRUCCIONES [Todos los elementos requeridos deben completarse por completo.] Identificación: El ADN de todas las cabras analizadas a través de ABGA debe tener una identificación de ABGA, como su nombre y marcas o tatuajes de identificación. Verificación de los padres: si está solicitando la verificación de los padres, marque el tipo de verificación (ya sea padre, madre o ambos) y ASEGÚRESE de completar el número de registro del padre y/o madre y el número de identificación del caso del Laboratorio de Genética Veterinaria (VGL). Si no tiene un número de identificación de caso de VGL, debe comprar las instrucciones para muestras de ADN para cada padre que esté verificando. TIEMPO DE PROCESAMIENTO UC Davis le enviará por CORREO ELECTRÓNICO las instrucciones de su muestra de ADN a su dirección de correo electrónico dentro de los tres (3) días hábiles posteriores al envío EN LÍNEA a ABGA. [Si no proporcionó una dirección de correo electrónico, se le enviarán por correo las instrucciones para la muestra de ADN.] Si no recibe las Instrucciones para la muestra de ADN dentro de los 3 días hábiles, REVISE SU CORREO ELECTRÓNICO NO RESERVADO . Si no está allí, comuníquese con la oficina de ABGA al (325) 486-2242 o envíe un correo electrónico a dna@abga.org . EXTRACCIÓN Y ENVÍO DE MUESTRA DE CABELLO [Las instrucciones de la muestra de ADN incluyen instrucciones sobre cómo tirar del cabello para la prueba y enviarlo a UC Davis]. Asegúrese de obtener las raíces de la muestra de cabello. Asegúrese de utilizar un sobre de papel limpio. Asegúrese de escribir la información de la cabra en el sobre [nombre, número de registro, su nombre]. Envíe la muestra de ADN a UC Davis siguiendo las instrucciones de las Instrucciones para la muestra de ADN. recibiste Envíe la confirmación a ABGA. [De la Regla 802–I de ABGA] En los casos en que la parte que presenta la solicitud no es el propietario del registro, se requiere un vial, pajilla u otro recipiente sin abrir que contenga semen que haya sido identificado de acuerdo con la Regla 401.B para que los resultados de la prueba de ADN ser aceptado por ABGA. Título It identifies the specific genetic markers associated with the goat you have tested. It allows for parent verification and future identification 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. It will allow you to show your goat’s parentage has been verified, if you have requested parent verification. What does the test do for ABGA? It lets us build our database of information on registered goats. Once we have that start we can ask UC Davis to test the samples for more markers that will give us the opportunity to improve our animals. Will DNA be used for research? Yes. UC Davis retains the right to use all samples stored at the VGL for research, whether the tests are performed for individuals, or for individuals through associations. 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 are stored at UC Davis, and VGL retains the right to use any samples stored there for research, whether they are done for individuals, or for individuals through registries. For contract customer registries like ABGA, the registry has ultimate ownership of the sample. However, the owner receives the results of the DNA tests requested on their goats. This gives ABGA members the guarantee that should UC Davis decide 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. Does ABGA make the DNA Report on my goat available to anyone else? No, absolutely not. If you want someone to have that information, you must provide it to them yourself. 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. *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 of doing the DNA test. Will I be told who the parents are? No. The test will show how close they matched, or didn’t match what you indicated on the form. 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. Here is the language each customer receives 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.] Frequently Asked DNA Questions Request DNA Testing Medios de comunicación JABGA

Boer goats gestate for an average of 150 days. Use the ABGA Gestation Calculator to determine the approximate due date of a pregnant goat based on the breeding or exposure date. Gestation Calculator Boer goats gestate for an average of 150 days. Use the ABGA Gestation Calculator to determine the approximate due date of a pregnant goat based on the breeding or exposure date. GESTATION CALCULATOR Exposure Date The average gestation period for Boer goats typically falls around 150 days. By choosing your breeding or estimated exposure date, you can determine the expected kidding date. It is advised to closely observe does 10 days before and after this anticipated date. Does expecting multiple kids often deliver earlier, while does expecting less kids often deliver later. For the highest likelihood of survival, a doe should ideally be at least 140 days into the pregnancy.

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 Updates 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. JABGA Medios de comunicación 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.

The American Boer Association offers a range of online services to help members and nonmembers register and transfer goats, pay for services online, and search for registered goats and breeders. SERVICIOS EN LÍNEA Online Live Los miembros pueden registrarse, transferir, administrar inventarios de hatos, recibir certificados temporales y pagar servicios en línea. Online Live > Servicios basados en la web Los miembros pueden research más de 300,000 American Boer Goats y es la base de datos en línea más grande del mundo para pura raza Boer Goats. La "Blue Screen". servicios basados en la web > Servicios para visitantes Los visitantes pueden hacer búsquedas básicas de cabras individuales registradas en ABGA y criadores. servicios al visitante > Únase a ABGA Beneficios para miembros son fundamentales para la American Boer Goat Association, y todos los miembros tienen acceso a lo que ofrece ABGA. únete a abga >

The American Boer Goat Association: Protecting, Promoting, and Recording the American Boer Goat Breed. ABGA Breed Standards The ABGA Breed Standards are guidelines for breeders to ensure the animals they produce conform to the defined characteristics of the breed. Download Breed Standards PDF View Teat Structure Diagram

The Boer goat was first founded in the early 1900s by Dutch farmers of South Africa. The first full-blood Boers were brought to the United States in 1993; ABGA formed the same year. Today’s American Boer Goat Association is the largest Boer association in the world with 7,000 members annually. NUESTRA HISTORIA COMENZÓ MÁS DE 100 AÑOS ATRÁS La cabra Boer fue desarrollada por agricultores holandeses en Sudáfrica a principios del siglo XX. Fueron traídos a los Estados Unidos en 1993. Ese mismo año se fundó la American Boer Goat Association (ABGA). Una raza única, es popular por su increíble producción de carne. La cabra Boer tiene una tasa de crecimiento rápido, excelentes cualidades de canal y es muy adaptable a diferentes entornos. Dócil y altamente fértil, estos rasgos distinguen a la cabra Boer en los segmentos comerciales y de raza pura de la industria de la cabra de carne estadounidense. Hoy en día, la ABGA ofrece una variedad de oportunidades en marketing, educación y la industria comercial y para los jóvenes a través de la Junior American Boer Goat Association. ABGA es la asociación de cabras Boer más grande del mundo con más de 7.000 miembros. La asociación registra más de 45.000 cabezas anualmente. NUESTRA HISTORIA COMENZÓ MÁS DE 100 AÑOS ATRÁS