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Dr. Jamie Courter is your Mizzou Beef Genetics Extension Specialist

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By Jared E. Decker Many of you have probably noticed that things have been a lot less active on the A Steak in Genomics™   blog, but you probably haven't known why. In January 2021, I was named the Wurdack Chair in Animal Genomics at Mizzou, and I now focus on research, with a little bit of teaching. I no longer have an extension appointment. But, with exciting news, the blog is about to become a lot more active! Jamie Courter began as the new MU Extension state beef genetics specialist in the Division of Animal Sciences on September 1, 2023. I have known Jamie for several years, meeting her at BIF when she was a Masters student. I have been impressed by Jamie in my interactions with her since that time.  Dr. Courter and I have been working closely together the last 6 weeks, and I am excited to work together to serve the beef industry for years to come! Jamie holds a bachelor’s degree in animal science from North Carolina State University and earned a master's degree in animal...
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New Price for Hereford GE-EPDs

Previously I discussed companies lowering prices for Angus genomic-enhanced EPD tests and a cost-sharing program for the American Hereford Association.
Now the American Hereford Association has decreased the cost for all animals to $85. From the Hereford eNews:

Price Change for DNA Testing

The American Hereford Association (AHA) has worked closely with GeneSeek Inc. and the National Beef Cattle Evaluation Consortium (NBCEC) to adopt a new pricing structure for genomic-enhanced expected progeny difference (GE-EPD), parentage and abnormality testing.
The new cost will be $85 and will be inclusive of all of testing except horned/polled (H/P), that cost will still be an additional $48.
This $15 savings will allow breeders the opportunity to do more comprehensive herd testing. The basic panel for parentage and abnormality testing is still available for $30 or $20 if you do 50 animals or more. The procedure is still the same and hair follicles from the tail are still the preferred method of DNA. You can find an instructional video for proper hair collection on the Hereford YouTube Channel.
For more about Hereford DNA testing download the DNA Testing Procedures Fact Sheet. To request DNA kits or for more information, contact Toni Shapiro at 816-842-3757 ortshapiro@hereford.org.
If you've not had a chance to check out the Hereford educational videos take time to visit the Hereford YouTube channel or Hereford.org and see what's available.

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