The National Show Judging Survey includes all qualified candidates who applied for consideration, with each judging team submitted directly by the applicants to ensure a fair and transparent selection process. National Show Judges Survey Now Open National Show Judges Survey Now Open The National Show Judging Survey includes all qualified candidates who applied for consideration, with each judging team submitted directly by the applicants to ensure a fair and transparent selection process. Dear ABGA Members, The National Show Judging Survey includes all qualified candidates who applied for consideration, with each judging team submitted directly by the applicants to ensure a fair and transparent selection process. At the July 2025 Face-to-Face Board of Directors Meeting, the Board approved opening the 2026 ABGA and JABGA judges surveys to all 2025 members in good standing. Survey links have been emailed to the address on file. If you did not receive a survey and are a 2025 member in good standing (renewed your membership by January 1, 2025), please check your spam folder. If it has not been received, please email mail@abga.org . When completing your survey, please select one candidate or team per JABGA show and one team for the ABGA Open Show. Only one survey per member number is permitted, and once submitted, your survey cannot be changed. All surveys must be submitted by Friday, December 5, 2025. Thank you for your continued dedication to ABGA and the success of our National Show. Sincerely, American Boer Goat Association For more information or questions, contact Rodney Wilson, National Show Chair, region.10@abga.org

Back to All Ambassadors 2020 No nominees due to COVID19

Get to know ABGA National Show Judge Sammy Lerena Sammy Lerena Sammy Lerena Get to know ABGA National Show Judge Sammy Lerena Sammy Lerena, and his wife, Taylor, reside in Lipan, Texas. They are the proud owners of Red Oak Ranch, and currently manage a herd of about 150 head. Sammy Lerena Sammy has been a member of ABGA since 2006 and achieved Certified Judge status in the spring of 2014. As a judge, he has officiated competitions in more than 24 states, including prestigious events like the ABGA National Show, Yellow Rose Classic at Ft Worth Stockshow, North American in Louisville, and the Houston Livestock Show. Apart from breeding competitive show goats, Sammy also runs a business focused on small ruminant reproduction. For more information or questions, contact Rodney Wilson, National Show Chair, region.10@abga.org

Watch American Boer Goat Association interviews, instructional videos, National Show content and more here. All Videos Play Video Play Video 02:44 How to Transfer a Goat on iCompete Play Video Play Video 04:07 How to Register a Goat with Two Registered Parents on iCompete Play Video Play Video 03:49 Registering Embryo Transfer (ET)/Flush kids on iCompete Play Video Play Video 04:18 Registering a Percentage Goat with an Unregistered Dam ALL VIDEOS How-To Play Video Play Video 03:42 How to Sign up for iCompete and Renew Your ABGA Membership iCompete, will fully replace ILR2 and the Blue Screen. iCompete is equipped to handle ABGA memberships, renewals, registry work, and show points within a single platform for all members. ABGA hopes iCompete will provide a more user-friendly and streamlined interface for members, making it easier to manage and utilize your ABGA membership. ABGA is rolling out iCompete in three phases. Members will only be able to renew their membership and view animals they own during Phase 1. Phase 2 & 3 will be announced in the near future. Play Video Play Video 01:51 Renew Your ABGA Membership on iCompete With the new year quickly approaching, it's time to renew your ABGA membership. Renew before January 1, 2024, to gain voting rights for new board members, run for a Board of Directors seat, and actively participate in changes to the Bylaws. Play Video Play Video 04:07 How to Register a Goat with Two Registered Parents on iCompete Play Video Play Video 02:44 How to Transfer a Goat on iCompete HOW-TO'S 2023 NATIONAL SHOW 2023 ABGA & JABGA National Show Play Video Play Video 03:43:12 JABGA Market Animal Show - Part 1 Play Video Play Video 07:04:20 JABGA Market Animal Show - Part 2 Play Video Play Video 15:04 JABGA Bred & Owned Show - PeeWee Showmanship Play Video Play Video 03:29:10 JABGA Bred & Owned Show - Part 1 Interviews & More Play Video Play Video 16:33 ABGA National Show 2022 Interview with Judge Phil Myers ABGA Executive Director Katie Carruth spoke with Judge Phil Myers about what goes into being a judge at the national show. Play Video Play Video 33:59 Interview with American Boer Goat Association Executive Director: Kathryn Carruth An energetic entrepreneur and seasoned non-profit manager, Carruth’s global agricultural knowledge brings a wealth of experience and leadership to American Boer Goat Association (ABGA). She has a passion for the livestock industry and engaging members for positive change. She and her family are relocating to San Angelo from Colorado where she has served as ED for the LEAD (Learning and Educating About Disabilities) Foundation and before that, as ED for American National CattleWomen (ANCW). ANCW is a nationwide membership-based, trade association and foundation which lobbies for and educates about the United States beef industry. Carruth holds a M.Sc. in International Rural Development: Sustainable Agriculture and Food Security from the Royal Agricultural College, UK and has a B.Sc. from Texas Tech University in Agricultural Communications. She brings a tremendous communication skill set with experience as a former TV reporter and public relations professional for multiple philanthropic organizations. She brings a fresh and innovative perspective to the opportunities ABGA faces today and into the future. Her deep and broad business acumen and livestock industry experience will help drive solutions for the challenging initiatives ABGA is committed to achieving. Play Video Play Video 00:58 ABGA @ The World Championship BBQ Goat Cook Off We are at the 47th annual World Championship BBQ Goat Cook Off this Labor Day weekend in Brady, Texas. INTERVIEWS & MORE 2022 National Show Play Video Play Video 08:14:40 ABGA National Show 2022 - Day 1 - Second Half Live from Fonner Park in Grand Island, NE Play Video Play Video 05:05:48 ABGA National Show 2022 - Day 3 Live from Fonner Park in Grand Island, NE Play Video Play Video 07:49:02 ABGA National Show 2022 - Day 3 - Second Half Live from Fonner Park in Grand Island, NE Play Video Play Video 07:46:42 ABGA National Show 2022 - Day 4 Live from Fonner Park in Grand Island, NE 2022 NATIONAL SHOW 2021 National Show Play Video Play Video 07:49 ABGA National Show 2021 Highlight from the 2021 ABGA National Show in Grand Island, Nebraska. Play Video Play Video 07:12 ABGA National Show 2021 Hello and welcome to the highlight video from the first couple days from this year's ABGA National Show in Grand Island, Nebraska. Play Video Play Video 45:50 American Boer Goat Association National Show 2021 The American Boer Goat Association was in Grand Island, Nebraska from June 12th through the 18th. The following is a video from this year's show with interviews, from members, vendors, staff, and the board. We hope you enjoy it and please join us for next year's show. 2021 NATIONAL SHOW

All American Boer Goat Association forms are available on our website, including Membership Renewal Forms, Agent Authorization Forms, Registration Applications, Transfer Applications, Live Coverage Service memos, and more. New Member Application The annual Adult Membership fee is $75. Memberships run from January 1 through December 31 of each year. Adults must be 21 years of age or older. Click here for more information, or to join using our digital form. Download Form New Junior Member Application The annual Junior Membership is $30. JABGA Memberships run from January 1 through December 31 of each year. JABGA Members must be under 21 years of age, and must have an active Adult ABGA member as an Authorized Agent . Download Form Renewal Form Renewals run through December 31 of each year. Adult renewals are $75 annually. JABGA renewals are $30 annually. You can also renew your membership directly on iCompete. Download Form Agent Authorization Form Need to add an Authorized Agent to your account? An Authorized Agent is a person, or firm, empowered to act on behalf of another. An Authorized Agent can make decisions regarding your account and herd on your behalf. Download Form ABGA Affiliate Application The ABGA Affiliate Program is designed to assist and provide resources to local goat clubs. This program is open to all meat goat and Boer goat clubs that desire to be part of the affiliate program. We are currently reworking our affiliate program and benefits. Download Form ABGA Checklist / Coversheet To process your work without delay, please include this completed and signed form with all ABGA forms and supporting documents. Download Form Registration Application Use this form to register your new addition to your herd, or to sell an unregistered goat from your herd. Download Form Multi-Registration Application for Breeder This form is for breeders only. Used this form to register 10 goats on one form. Download Form Live Coverage Service Memo A Service Memo is a form signed by the owner, or lesser, of a buck that indicates service or exposure dates to one or more does. The form requires both the buck and doe’s names, registration numbers, and the doe’s right and left ear tattoos. Click here for more information. Download Form Transfer Application Use this form when transferring ownership of an individual goat between a buyer and a seller when the original certificate is non-existent. This must be accompanied by a statement from the seller requesting a “Duplicate” and why. Otherwise, you can complete a transfer on the back of you Certificate of Registration. Download Form Lease Application A lease is a contract by which a person allows another person the use and possession of an animal for a specified time period. Download Form Listing Paper Application Animals that are otherwise ineligible for registration or a Record of Pedigree will be eligible for a “Listing Paper” with the Association. We are currently unable to print listing papers. We will update the membership when this is available. Download Form DNA Sample Processing Request Form DNA is no longer required as of Sep 1, 2021. Beginning February 1, 2025, all DNA testing will move to a Single-nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) analysis, commonly pronounced as “snip.” You may also request DNA digitally HERE . Download Form Certificate of Embryo Recovery (Flush Form) To ensure a faster turnaround. Please use our standard Embryo Recovery/Flush form. The fee is $20 per donor. Download Form Standard Certificate of Embryo Freezing To ensure a faster turnaround. Please use our standard Embryo Freezing form. The fee is $20 per donor. Download Form Embryo Ownership Transfer Form Use this form if you are selling fresh or frozen embryos, or an implanted recipient doe. Download Form Sanctioned Show Application Promote the Boer goat industry and help the genetic improvement of the Boer breed by sanctioning your Boer goat show with the ABGA. All wins and points will be permanantly recorded. See the ABGA Sanctioned Show Download Form Visual Inspection Application Visual Inspection services are provided by ABGA approved inspectors. See Rule 1100 in the Rules & Regulations to learn more about Visual Inspections. Download Form Ennoblement Nomination Form Download Form Doe of Excellence Nomination Form The Sire of Merit Award is open to Fullblood, American Purebred, and American Percentage Does. Applicants must submit the $20 fee with their application. See Rule 1301 in the ABGA Rules & Regulations to learn more about the Sire of Merit Award. Download Form Sire of Merit Nomination Form The Sire of Merit Award is open to Fullblood, American Purebred, and American Percentage Bucks. Applicants must submit the $20 fee with their application. See Rule 1301 in the ABGA Rules & Regulations to learn more about the Sire of Merit Award. Download Form Rule 900 Filing The purpose of this form is to file a Rule 900 complaint with the ABGA against an ABGA member. Each complaint shall be filed listing only the date and information of one specific rule violation. The filing fee is $500 per complaint. Download Form JABGA Sanctioned Show Substitution Form Download Form JABGA National Show Substitution Form Download Form All Forms Membership Forms Registration Forms DNA & Flush Forms Show Forms Other Forms Forms Download our fillable PDF membership, registration, and show forms. Have a question about a form? Contact us!

Save trailer space and preorder shavings from Lowe's Purchase Shavings from Lowe's Purchase Shavings from Lowe's Save trailer space and preorder shavings from Lowe's Attention National Show Exhibitors! Save trailer space and preorder your shavings and Purple Vision Show Feeds products today! Scan the QR code or visit lowespellets.com/2024-abga-nationals 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

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 Jun 11, 2026 Judges Educational Clinic Provides Hands-On Learning Opportunity at National Show Members attending the 2026 National Show had the opportunity to attend an educational clinic led by ABGA Certified Judges Olivia Rush, Patrick Aliff, and Corey Billups. Throughout the session, participants worked directly with live animals while engaging in discussions on breed standards, structure, and cull faults. The judges walked attendees through the ABGA breed standards and how the decision-making process used when evaluating animals. The interactive format allowed members to ask... Read More 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

The "Unlock a Lock" event will return in 2024. Unlock a Lock Unlock a Lock The "Unlock a Lock" event will return in 2024. The " Unlock a Lock" event will return in 2024. Junior members need to participate in all four contests on Saturday, June 8th – including Skill-a-thon, Public Speaking, Sales Talk, and Goat Judging – to qualify for a chance to "Unlock a Lock" and win different prizes. Unlock a Lock will take place on Monday, June 10 during the lunch hour. Prizes include Airpods, fitting mats, Sullivan Supply accessories, and more! View JABGA Contest Rules For more information or questions, contact Rodney Wilson, National Show Chair, region.10@abga.org

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 What's New As of September 1, 2021, all DNA is voluntary. DNA Voucher Program Update In January 2025, the BOD approved giving members a one-time $50 voucher to be used for SNP DNA testing as part of the $100,000 that is designated for DNA programs. The vouchers were to be used by July 1, 2025, with the board re-evaluating the voucher program and use of the remaining funds during the Summer Face-to-Face Meeting. During this meeting, the ABGA Board of Directors tabled the use of vouchers and remaining funds until further evaluation of the best use of these funds can be determined. We appreciate the participation and interest shown by our members and will continue to keep you informed on future decisions regarding DNA testing support. 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 is offering $5 off the next 192 SNP and/or SNP & STR combo tests. Take advantage of this limited-time opportunity to verify and strengthen your herd’s genetics! SNP Test $62 $57 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 $91 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. Request SNP Testing Download Printable Form 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? ABGA allocated $100,000 for the transition from STR to SNP testing. ABGA initially offered a $50 voucher to the first 2,000 members who applied to subsidize the costs of SNP tests. Each membership was limited to one $50 voucher, which had to be used before July 1, 2025. The BOD is currently re-evaluating the best use of the remaining funds. As new information or programs are released, we will continue to update the membership. 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.

Madison Reis currently serves as the Reporter for the Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA). Reis spent much of her childhood entrenched in agriculture and showing alongside her parents and grandparents in California. Madison Reis Madison Reis currently serves as the President for the Junior American Boer Goat Association (JABGA). She is a sophomore at Oklahoma State University and plans on majoring in Animal Science: Pre-Vet and pursue reproduction within the livestock industry. Reis spent much of her childhood entrenched in agriculture and showing alongside her grandparents in California. When her grandfather moved into the goat industry shortly before her birth, it was only natural that Reis would take up breeding, raising, and showing registered Boer goats when the time came. In addition to goats, Reis has also shown beef cattle in 4-H. Outside of showing, Reis served as President of her local 4-H club. She has also served one term as the Vice President and Reporter of JABGA. She enjoys spending her free time outdoors, at concerts, or making Dutch Bros runs! Reis plans to study pre-veterinary medicine, specializing in large animals, to learn more about genetics, artificial insemination, and embryo flushing. As President, Reis is excited to help JABGA build more benefits for its members, and to continue creating a welcoming and invested organization for current and future members.

Get familiar with the National Show Groups and Pairs Classes Groups & Pairs Classes Groups & Pairs Classes Get familiar with the National Show Groups and Pairs Classes GROUP CLASSES The following rules apply for group classes. Entry fee is $15 per group per show. Entries will be made on showman.app and will close on the dates of National show entry deadlines. Exhibitors will only need to select the number of group or pair classes they intend to participate in at the time of entry. Exhibitors must declare animals on the entry form; listing each animal’s tattoo and registration number and submit it to the office for verification by 9 am of the day of the show. The goats must also be shown in their regular class. Any animal disqualified in a regular class for a cull fault or tattoo or weigh out will not be eligible for the pairs or group classes. Fullblood Group Classes will follow the Fullblood Doe Overall Drive and Percentage Group Classes will follow the Percentage Doe Overall Drive. FULLBLOOD GET OF SIRE: Three Fullblood or Purebred offspring of the same buck with both sexes represented. Must have at least 1 of each sex: animals may be of any age and do not have to be owned by the same person. PERCENTAGE GET OF SIRE: Three Percentage does, any age, that are sired by the same buck. Both sexes may be represented and do not have to be owned by the same person. FULLBLOOD PRODUCE OF DAM: Two offspring out of the same doe. Do not have to be owned by the same person. PERCENTAGE PRODUCE OF DAM: Two offspring out of the same doe. To be eligible, the dam must be registered in an ABGA Herd book. Do not have to be owned by the same person. (Percentage bucks may be included). FULLBLOOD BREEDER’S HERD: The exhibitor of the herd must be the breeder of record. Goats owned by other exhibitors may be included provided the exhibitor of the breeder’s herd was listed as the owner or co-owner of the dam of the included goat(s) at the time of conception: Two Fullblood or Purebred does less than 12 months, Two Fullblood or Purebred does 12 months or greater, one buck of any age. PERCENTAGE DOE BREEDER’S HERD: The exhibitor of the herd must be the breeder of record. Goats owned by other exhibitors may be included provided the exhibitor of the breeder’s herd was listed as the owner or co-owner of the dam of the included goat(s) at the time of conception: Two percentage does or bucks less than 12 months or two percentage does or bucks 12 months or greater. PAIR CLASSES The following rules apply for pair classes. Entry fee is $15 per group per show. Entries will be made on showman.app and will close on the dates of National show entry deadlines. Exhibitors will only need to select the number of group or pair classes they intend to participate in at the time of entry. Exhibitors will declare animals on the entry form; listing each animal’s tattoo and registration number and submit it to the office for verification by 9 am of the each show day. The goats must also be shown in their regular class. Any animal disqualified in a regular class for a cull fault, tattoo, or weigh out will not be eligible for the pairs or group classes. Junior Division Drive and the Senior Pairs classes will follow the Overall Drive. Best Pair of Doe/Buck Kids will follow the Junior Fullblood Doe Drive. BEST PAIR KIDS: Two animals shown in the 0–12-month (Junior) classes of the respective division. Classes are Best Pair of Fullblood Buck Kids, Best Pair of Fullblood Doe Kids, Best Pair of Percentage Doe Kids, and Best Pair of Percentage Buck Kids. BEST PAIR ONE YEAR AND OLDER: Two animals shown in the yearling and/or senior classes of the respective divisions. Classes are Best Pair of Fullblood Bucks, Best Pair of Fullblood Does, Best Pair of Percentage Does, and Best Pair of Percentage Bucks. BEST PAIR OF DOE/BUCK KIDS: Both sexes represented. One buck and one doe shown in the 0-12 month (Junior) Classes of the respective division. Classes are Best Pair of Fullblood Kids and Best Pair of Percentage Kids. For more information or questions, contact Rodney Wilson, National Show Chair, region.10@abga.org