The ASA was formed on October 14, 1968, with 280 Charter Members.  Though these breeders came from a variety of breed and geographic backgrounds, they shared several similarities.  All were dissatisfied with their current cattle and recognized that this new breed, Simmental, which had been so diligently monitored in Europe, could revolutionize the US industry.  Those early founding fathers placed major emphasis on performance, correctly realizing that it is the only truly accurate way to measure a sire’s genetic value. 

Since 1968, Simmental breeders have continued to have a profound, positive effect on the industry.  ASA produced the first beef breed sire summary and every other breed has followed their lead.  They were up front with the first estimated breeding values (EBVs), which later became EPDs, which every breed now relies heavily upon.  In 1995, PTP (Progress Through Performance) Shows were established first by ASA as a means of incorporating breeding values into a judge’s subjective opinion.  They have led the way in establishing an education-based junior program, also emulated by every other breed association; and their carcass merit program has led the industry into the 21st century.  Today’s crossbreeding boom was created, in no small part, because of the Simmental impact on the commercial cowherds of the US.

This year we pay tribute to 40 years of revolutionary accomplishment and in looking ahead to exciting new programs, instituted by a visionary organization that seeks to remain on the cutting edge of beef breed innovation. 

By Dan Rieder, Editor

As a tribute to the ASA's 40th Anniversary, the Register will be featuring a series of articles throughout the year that will look back on some of the oldest and most influential Simmental breeders in ASA's history.  This series can be found on the home page of the Register website at www.simmgene.com.