Official Publication of the Saskatchewan Angus Association
Summer 2026
Publications Mail Agreement #40019886
~ ~ ~ Strengthening the Herdbook ~ ~ ~
Understanding the New AI and Donor Dam Policy Amendment The Canadian Angus breed has long been recognized for its commitment to genetic integrity, breed purity, and progressive leadership in the global beef industry. In January 2026, the Canadian Angus Association (CAA) Board approved an important amendment to the Artificial Insemination (AI) and Donor Dam policy that reflects the evolving realities of our evolving industry. This policy change introduces requirements for genetic condition (GC) testing and high-density (HD) DNA marker testing for certain animals entering the herdbook through AI and embryo transfer programs.
While the amendment may appear technical at first glance, it represents a proactive step toward maintaining the strength and credibility of the Canadian Angus herdbook while aligning with international standards.
Why the Policy Needed to Change Over the past decade, advancements in reproductive technologies such as AI and embryo transfer have dramatically accelerated genetic progress within the beef industry. Elite animals can now produce a significantly larger number of offspring than ever before. While this progress brings tremendous opportunities, it also places greater
importance on ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the herdbook.
In recent years, the CAA has seen a significant rise in the percentage of registered calves originating from donor dams. These influential females are producing larger numbers of embryos, which in turn means their genetic impact on the population is expanding rapidly. As their influence grows, ensuring that the genetics entering the herdbook are thoroughly verified becomes increasingly important.
At the same time, the semen marketplace has also shifted. Historically, widely marketed AI sires dominated registrations across the breed. However, more recently there has been a strong movement toward privately marketed bulls. In 2025 registration data, more than 50 percent of the top sires by registration numbers were privately marketed bulls—a notable change from previous years when publicly available sires were far more prominent.
by Myles Immerkar
Aligning with International Standards Another key driver behind the policy amendment is the evolving landscape of international genetics trade. Canadian Angus cattle and genetics are exported around the world, and many importing countries have increasingly stringent requirements surrounding genetic testing and verification.
Over the past several years, the CAA has encountered situations where embryo progeny were unable to qualify for registration or sale in certain markets because required testing had not been completed. These situations can create significant frustration and financial setbacks for producers.
By updating the AI and Donor Dam policy to include mandatory GC testing and HD marker testing, the association is helping ensure that Canadian genetics meet international expectations from the outset. This proactive approach reduces the risk of complications later in the continued on Page 8