AMGA Group BreedPlan

You're almost there! It is springtime again, you have submitted your Dam Inventory and Matiing Information Form and you are, likely, into calving season again. But before you get too far into spring's work, it's time to take those yearling weights on last spring's calves.

Instructions for the Yearling Worksheet

1 - Check to make sure all of your calves are listed on the form and that all information is correct. If you have to make corrections, do not write over information, use the back of the form.

2 - Weigh Date - date on which calves are weighed. They must be between 301 and 450 days of age to have the yearling weight count.

3 - Weight - actual live weight of animal taken on a scale.

4 - Management Groups - Calves need to be grouped according to how they are managed from weaning to yearling. Any calves that are treated differently, or in any way have circumstances that affect their growth - either positively or negatively - should be put into different management groups. EPDs are generated from the comparisons of animals within a management group. Grouping animals together that were not managed the same will generate poor quality EPDs. Mangement groups are the single most important factor affecting the validity of EPDs. Comparing animals that have been treated differently is unfair to calves and their dams. If you have questions regarding Management Groups, please call the AMGA. Phone - 775 - 972 - 7526

5 - Disposal Codes - 1 = Died, 2 = Sold, no papers, 3 = Culled, slaughtered or sold for feeding

6 - Register Now - Y = Yes N = No - calves not previously registered can be registered now. Send appropriate fee ($10.00 - 2004)

The remaining fields are optional. See breeder's guide for proper way to measure scrotal circumference and hip height. Carcass information will be stored for future use.

7 - Feet/Legs - rated on a 1 - 9 scale with 1 being weak and 9 as strong. 1 = long pasterns, sickle hocked; 9 = very short pastern, no set, "post" legged

8 - Temperament - subjective measure of the animals' attitude. Click here for temperament codes.