The American Boer Goat Association: Protecting, Promoting, and Recording the American Boer Goat Breed. Past Editions March 2026 Update March 5th Update February 2026 Update February 5th Update January 2026 Update January 8th Update First Prev 1 Page 1 Next Last The Boer Goat Newsletter Subscribe to The Boer Goat Newsletter—ABGA’s bi‑weekly e‑newsletter delivering the latest on shows, membership highlights, and industry news directly to your email inbox. Stay in the Loop with ABGA News Never miss an important update—subscribe to The Boer Goat Newsletter, ABGA’s official e-newsletter delivered straight to your inbox every first and third Thursday morning. It’s the best way to stay informed about office announcements, upcoming shows, membership news, and more. Whether you're a seasoned breeder or new to the community, our newsletter keeps you connected and up to date. Sign up today and stay ahead with everything ABGA! First Name Enter Your Email Subscribe Thanks for subscribing to our newsletter! Last Name Latest Edition Open in new window

Madison Reis spent much of her childhood entrenched in agriculture and showing alongside her grandparents in California. Meet JABGA President: Madison Reis Madison Reis spent much of her childhood entrenched in agriculture and showing alongside her grandparents in California. I first got into the goat world and stepped into the ring for the first time when I was around two years old. I had no clue what I was doing, but I held on to the end of the show lead and helped my gammo show that doe the best I could. Since that moment I have never looked back, and I took off and ran with goats. All the kids I went to school with growing up were interested and passionate about sports, but my heart and passion lay with the goats and the show ring. Every chance I got I was at the ranch with my grandparents doing whatever needed to be done around the barn. The older I got the more passionate I became about the Boer goat industry. I wanted to go to every show I could in order to work on my showmanship skills and to continue to better my herd and show string. By doing this I met so many amazing people and built a goat community across multiple states. Looking back when I was younger, I was just as passionate to help the youngers kids and watch them succeed as I am now. As I grew older, that passion just kept burning brighter and brighter, and I wanted to become more involved within the industry. The show community we have in California is a very tight knit group, and I have grown up showing with the kids within that community. I am one of the oldest junior members, and I have always wanted to set a good example for the younger members. This is where I really started to want to be more involved in JABGA so I could help more junior members. I have always been a helping hand, and people know that they can trust me to help with their kids or animals. In 2022 I applied to be on the Board of Directors for the JABGA, which was another way for me to become more involved and fulfill my passion for this association. Luckily, I was able to become a director and representative for JABGA Area 1. My first year on the Board of Directors I ran for an officer position to really show my passion and commitment to the association and its members. My second year on the board I was elected Vice President. Fast forward to the present in 2024 I reapplied to be on the Board of Directors, and luckily, I got reelected to be a director. I also was nominated and elected to be the President of JABGA. Looking back now my younger self would be so proud of how far I have come in this industry and the experiences and opportunities I have had all thanks to Boer goats and I wouldn’t have it any other way! Learn more about Madison Reis. Related Posts Jan 22, 2024 Applications Open for JABGA Board of Directors JABGA is now accepting JABGA Board of Directors nominations until March 1, 2024. Jul 9, 2022 Congratulations to the 2022-2023 JABGA Board of Directors Officers! The JABGA Board of Directors selected 2022-2023 officers as part of their annual Face-to-Face meeting on July 7, 2022. Feb 17, 2022 JABGA President Cecelia Knott's Showmanship Tip Check out this useful showmanship tip from JABGA Board President, Cecelia Knott.

Get to know your National Show Ring and Barn Superintendents Superintendents Superintendents Get to know your National Show Ring and Barn Superintendents RING SUPERINTENDENTS National Show Ring Superintendents are essential for the success of the National Show. They play a crucial role in organizing and overseeing the show ring, ensuring rule compliance, and maintaining smooth operations throughout the day. Wade Rogers & Kensey Cobb BARN SUPERINTENDENT The National Show Barn Superintendent plays a crucial role in organizing the barn. Upon arrival, the barn superintendent assists with stall assignments, addresses facility requirements, coordinates with the onsite veterinarian, and is available to answer any questions while you are in the barn. Elizabeth Westfall For more information or questions, contact Rodney Wilson, National Show Chair, region.10@abga.org

Read what JABGA Vice President, Logan Hollen, wrote about agriculture for National Agriculture Week. What is Agriculture? Read what JABGA Vice President, Logan Hollen, wrote about agriculture for National Agriculture Week. JABGA Vice President Logan Hollen What is Agriculture? As a girl growing up in Kentucky, I have been surrounded by ag my whole life. Throughout the past 18 years on this earth, I have learned what agricultural means to me. The foundation of the world is agriculture. Ag gives you everything – from the clothes on your back to the lights in your house. A few months ago, I found myself in front of a freshman ag class teaching them what agricultural is. After the lesson I left them with one last thing to remember, “without agricultural, we have nothing, without agriculture, we are nothing”. The American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) is a great representation of what agriculture is. This organization teaches young students about the importance of animals and how to properly care for them. We need more organizations such as the ABGA to share the importance of agriculture. I strive to share the importance of ag and continue to share with others why we must keep ag the focal point in everyday life. Related Posts

Will Poynor My name is Will Poynor. I was born and raised in the small town of Leiper’s Fork, on the outskirts of Franklin, TN. My younger sister and I grew up on a farm that has been in our family since 1811. I graduated from Fairview High School and attended UT Martin, where I studied wildlife biology. I am serving Area 4 on the JABGA Board of Directors. I began showing swine, beef, and goats 9 years ago as part of the Williamson County 4-H Livestock Program. My love for goats grew into a passion and a livelihood. I currently have a herd of 50 +- brood does. I love showing and raising wethers. We have produced several TN State Champions on our farm. My upbringing in Leiper’s Fork instilled a lifelong love of the outdoors and a deep respect for the land that has shaped my family for generations. Farm life taught me the value of hard work, patience, and the importance of community. Through countless early mornings and long evenings tending to animals, I discovered a sense of purpose that continues to guide me. My passion for wildlife and livestock eventually led me to the world of Boer goats—a journey that began with curiosity and quickly became a defining part of my life. Joining the JABGA Board has given me the opportunity to connect with others who share this enthusiasm and to contribute to a community built on dedication and mutual support. Outside of working and showing goats, I spend my free time hunting, fishing, and hanging out with my friends. I am thankful every day that God has given me this life to live. Serving on the JABGA Board has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my journey so far. It has allowed me not only to advocate for the interests of our region but also to learn from fellow board members whose backgrounds and perspectives continually broaden my own understanding. I am deeply grateful for the mentors who encouraged me early on, and I strive to pay that support forward—whether it’s offering advice to a newcomer in the show ring or collaborating on new educational initiatives. Through my involvement, I have grown to appreciate the power of teamwork and the sense of belonging that comes from working toward a common goal. Each meeting, each event, and each conversation with our members reinforces why this work matters—not just for today’s breeders, but for the future of livestock agriculture as a whole. I am excited to be on the Board of Directors for the JABGA so that I can help fuel the love for Boer goats in new and current members. I want to be here to help and encourage the youth who are working hard to raise and show their Boer goats. Throughout my journey, I have found that the heart of the JABGA community lies in its people—the friendships forged in the barn, the shared triumphs and challenges, and the unwavering support that members offer one another. These relationships have enriched my life in ways that extend far beyond the show ring. Every handshake, every story exchanged over a fence line, and every moment spent teaching and learning has reinforced the sense of camaraderie that sets our organization apart. What inspires me most is seeing young members discover their confidence and skills as they care for their animals, set goals, and celebrate achievements both large and small. Their enthusiasm reminds me that the traditions we uphold today will shape the future of our agricultural landscape. Being part of this vibrant community has offered me countless opportunities to learn and grow—not only as a breeder but also as a mentor and friend. Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that livestock programs have on young people, instilling responsibility, perseverance, and a true appreciation for agriculture. Looking ahead, I hope to continue supporting the next generation through outreach and education, sharing practical knowledge and a genuine enthusiasm for Boer goats. Whether it’s through hosting workshops, judging local shows, or simply lending a hand at a county fair, my goal remains the same: to inspire others to pursue their agricultural dreams and build lasting memories along the way. If you ever have questions about raising or showing Boer goats, or just want to swap stories about farm life, don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s been a privilege to serve, and I look forward to many more years of involvement, friendship, and shared success within the JABGA family.

Meet National Show Superintendent, Kensey Cobb Kensey Cobb Kensey Cobb Meet National Show Superintendent, Kensey Cobb Hi I’m Kensey! I’m from a small town in South Carolina, right above Clemson University. My family and I started in goats in 2013, and moved our focus to ABGA registered stock in 2016. You can catch me at a show or sale on the weekends, or at home doing chores around the farm! I’m looking for to seeing and meeting everyone! For more information or questions, contact Rodney Wilson, National Show Chair, region.10@abga.org

The agriculture community as a whole is ginormous- it is our job as agriculturalists to figure out where we belong. - by Jordan Jelinek Finding Your Place The agriculture community as a whole is ginormous- it is our job as agriculturalists to figure out where we belong. - by Jordan Jelinek If you were to ask ten people to describe agriculture, I’m willing to bet you’d receive ten different answers. For me, agriculture can be described in many ways—but one word always comes to mind. Ever since I was a kid, that word has been “future.” Even future can mean a few different things, but the first one that comes to mind for me is: What does my future in agriculture look like? Agriculture has so many different facets and resources tied to it. There are countless industries and associations—but I’ve always been drawn to the youth organizations that support the next generation of agricultural leaders. Organizations like FFA, 4-H, and JABGA have been cornerstones in my life. They’ve shaped not only my understanding of agriculture, but also who I am as a person. Through them, I’ve learned leadership, responsibility, and what it means to be part of something bigger than myself. Now, if you were to ask ten ABGA members to describe the association, I’d still be willing to bet that—while the answers might be similar—there would be a wide range of perspectives. That said, I think we can all agree that community is one aspect of this organization we all hold near to our hearts. Walking down the barn hallways at Nationals, it’s easy to admire the simple interactions between families from across the country. These moments might be the beginning of lifelong friendships, or they may represent the continuation of three generations within the industry. Regardless, we all play a vital role in keeping this association strong, supportive, and welcoming. Take a moment to think about the people who have become like family over the years—the ones who helped you get to where you are today, and who continue to push you to be better. Then take it a step further: think about who helped them get to where they are. Next time you’re at a show, look around. Watch the people helping each other, offering advice, lending a hand. Forget about the drama and the competition, and instead, focus on how deeply we are all connected—connected in our passion for this industry, in our commitment to improvement, and in our investment in the next generation. As agriculturalists, we each have a role to play. No matter how out of place you may feel, you are making a difference. And if your next goal feels too far away, just start climbing. In agriculture, there’s always a place for you—you just have to find it, and keep building it for those who come next. Related Posts Feb 5, 2025 The Reward of Pursuing Your Passion Discovering the rewards of showing goats: hard work, passion, community, and personal growth make every moment in the ring worthwhile. Jan 17, 2025 Being a Mentor by Logan Hollen Finding a mentor in a new program, like JABGA, provides guidance, builds experience, and fosters shared passion to achieve your goals. Oct 18, 2024 Maintaining Breed Integrity The Reasons Behind the Breed Standards by Jada Young

Learn about the traits and anatomy of Boer goats and how it contributes to their unique characteristics and abilities. Characteristics and Anatomy of the Boer Goat Learn about the traits and anatomy of Boer goats and how it contributes to their unique characteristics and abilities. Here are some of its most significant features: Exceptional hardiness allows for high resistance to disease, making it one of the hardiest livestock breeds. The Boer goat is adaptable to a wide range of climates and grazing conditions, thriving in challenging environments. They can survive in arid regions where other small stock cannot, even with limited access to drinking water. With their strong legs, they are efficient walkers that can navigate mountainous areas and dense shrubbery with ease. Boers consume browse that other livestock overlook, clearing undergrowth and maintaining vegetation balance, even in difficult terrain. They have a long lifespan and maintain fertility up to 10 years or more. Boer meat is in high demand in the US due to its low-fat content and healthful properties. It is equivalent to chicken in caloric value. The Boer goat has the highest dressed weight percentage of any mutton breed. Young Boer meat is tender and flavorful, with sufficient marbling and a pleasing texture. Boers are bred for dominance and carry superior genetic traits for goat ranching. The breed is also used internationally and in the US to improve other goat breeds through aggressive crossbreeding programs. Boer skin produces high-quality leather that is in high demand and can be sold at a premium price for use in shoes, gloves, and books. The Boer goat is commonly a goat with a white body and a red head. Docile, high fertility and a fast growth rate are some of the traits that set the Boer goat apart in the purebred and commercial segments of the American meat goat industry. Mature Does can weigh between 190- 230 pounds and mature Boer bucks can weigh between 200 and 340 pounds. The demand for high quality, lean, healthy red meat is the one of the underlining forces behind the development of the American meat goat industry. With an eager base of ethnic consumers, the demand for goat meat continues to grow in the United States each year. The importation of goat meat into the United States is estimated over 30 million dollars annually. View the Anatomy of the Boer goat below. Anatomy of a Boer goat buck. Anatomy of a Boer goat doe. Characteristics and Anatomy of the Boer Goat The Boer goat is a standout breed with many characteristics that contribute to its profitability and value in agriculture. Registration and Standards Related Posts & Updates Apr 8, 2026 Fullblood Herd Book Modernization Proposal This proposal modernizes the Fullblood Herd Book by establishing automatic Fullblood recognition for any ABGA registered Boer goat with documented genetics of 99.5% or higher. Read More Mar 31, 2025 Native on Appearance Program: Expanding Opportunity for ABGA Members Register Boer does with no pedigree through ABGA’s new Native on Appearance program. Read More May 19, 2023 How to Tattoo Your Goat ABGA Member Dawn Foster of No Step Ranch in Sterling City, Texas takes us through the steps on how to tattoo your goat. Read More Mar 17, 2023 ABGA Broadens Horizons with Wether Incentive Program Ahead of National Show Discover the Boer Goat Advantage (BGA) program by the American Boer Goat Association, offering cash prizes and incentives for wether goat breeders at national and regional shows! Read More

Tentative Schedule 2026 Tentative Schedule 2026 Tentative Schedule Tentative Schedule The 2026 National Show Schedule subject to change. Make your plans to join us for “The Great Safari” in Grand Island this summer! View Schedule For more information or questions, contact Rodney Wilson, National Show Chair, region.10@abga.org

Attend the Area 3 JABGA Regional Show in Greenfield, IN, May 9–10, 2026. Celebrate the Boer goat breed with top exhibitors and youth competition. Area 3 Regional Sponsors Platinum Sponsor Hancock County Tourism Commission Keystone Cooperative Diamond Sponsor Cowpokes Top Bedding Wickard Livestock Gold Sponsor Able Acre Boer Goats Casada Creations - Regional Show Series Sponsor Indiana Farm Bureau Inc. Janes Livestock LLC Lowe's Pellets and Grain/Purple Vision Show Feeds Newton Farms - Regional Show Series Sponsor Premier Show Goats/B.A.B. Boer Goats Purina - Regional Show Series Sponsor Ranchin' Roots Boutique Rusty and Amanda Locker C&L Farms Silver Sponsor DOT FARM KTS Acres Boer Goats Reproduction Specialty Group (RSG) Stockvets Sullivan Supply - Fitting Contest Sponsor VIP Animal Care Bronze Sponsor Elite Champions Creations Jackman Animal Clinic Enter on Showman.app → View Regional Show Rules View Skill-a-thon Study Guide + more 📍 Location: Greenfield, IN 📅 Dates: May 9 - 10, 2025 🤠 Judges: Chris Fleming (Breeding) Shannon Scotten (Market) 📄 Show Secretary: Regional - Jaelynn Namio Facility - Julia & Chris Wickard 📧 Email: jaelynn@abga.org racingtotheheartland@gmail.com 📞 Phone: 325-222-8280 317-938-4777 or 765-785-6297

Day two of our Junior American Boer Goat Association Board of Directors Face-to-Face meeting is in the books! 2022 JABGA Face-to-Face: Day 2 Day two of our Junior American Boer Goat Association Board of Directors Face-to-Face meeting is in the books! Day two of our Junior American Boer Goat Association Board of Directors Face-to-Face meeting is in the books! Our JABGA board members started the day at The Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center in San Angelo. The group toured the laboratories and research pens. They were also introduced to the center’s research, which spans several breeds of sheep and goats, feeding programs, fiber sources, crops, and technology-led parasite identification. We owe a special thank you to Sheep and Goat Program Specialist Jake Thorne and Dr. John Walker at the Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center. Our JABGA board enjoyed hearing their knowledge. We also owe a special thank you to Robert Cope, Senior Instructor/Research Associate in the Department of Agriculture at Angelo State University (ASU), for his wisdom and time during the tour of the laboratory. The group then traveled to the ASU Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Product Development Laboratory, where JABGA members got to see the product of the Boer goat breed – the meat! This further developed the knowledge JABGA members learned at the 2022 National Show Carcass Evaluation Class. After lunch, board members sat down for their official business meeting at the ABGA office. ABGA Board Vice President Kathy Daves-Carr attended virtually. JABGA board members ended the day enjoying a Texas country music concert on the banks of the Concho River in downtown San Angelo. Courtesy of: Avery Holman Up Next: Tours of Denis Feedlot and Rocking Chair Ranch! #JABGA #news Related Posts

Louisville, Kentucky 2025 National Show Results Louisville, Kentucky Filter by Show ABGA JABGA JABGA Bred & Owned JABGA Wether Type 10983118 - JDHN PUBLIC DISTURBANCE Jackson Harman ABGA Overall Grand Champion + Champion Junior Fullblood Buck 10951095 - WINDY ACRES TRAIN STATION Wyatt Stevens ABGA Overall Reserve Grand Champion + Champion Senior Fullblood Buck 10987593 - BMACK POWER DRIVE Bmack Farms ABGA Reserve Champion Junior Fullblood Buck 10958278 - RMA2 CRUISE CONTROL John and Gale Parrish ABGA Champion Yearling Fullblood Buck 10956849 - TKGB KING OF HEARTS Piper Fisher ABGA Reserve Champion Yearling Fullblood Buck 10877502 - TKGB TROUBLESHOOTER Piper Fisher ABGA Reserve Champion Senior Fullblood Buck Trevor & Maddie Clemens ABGA Grand Best Pair of Buck Kids Brandon Leconte ABGA Reserve Best Pair of Buck Kids Trevor & Maddie Clemens ABGA Grand Best Pair of Bucks One Year & Older Locust Haven Farm ABGA Reserve Best Pair of Bucks One Year & Older Amber Schroeder ABGA Grand Best Buck/Doe Pair Jackson Harman ABGA Reserve Best Buck/Doe Pair View All ABGA Results All JABGA Show Results For more information or questions, contact criley@abga.org