In an effort to increase the use of artificial insemination (AI), and underscore the Hereford breed's resolve about genetic change and providing a more consistent and predictable product, the American Hereford Association (AHA) has approved the Non-Certificate AI Bull Program. The program will allow any AI sire to be entered in the program and its calves registered without an AI certificate.

Jack Ward, AHA director of breed improvement and COO, says the AHA Board hopes not having to pay for a certificate will prompt more breeders to consider AI using proven bulls, thus resulting in more genetic improvement.

The cost for sire entry is $250. Sires entered after April 1, and their calves born after Dec. 1, 2006, are eligible for registry without a certificate.

For more info, contact Ward at 816-842-3757 or jward@hereford.org. --AHA release