March_April 2016

March / April 2016

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN BOER GOAT ASSOCIATION

(since 1982) RM6000 Roll O’Matic Sheep and Goat Table Only $1525.00

We have the LOWEST PRICE sheep and goat equipment on the market and it’s HOT DIPPED GALVANIZED.

Our RM6000 comes completely galvanized so it won’t rust. Has solid tread plate floor with solid sides, so animals enter more easily with less distractions toward our V-type manual headgate. TM6000 is good for horned or pulled sheep and goats. The backside has a 12 inch strip of carpet with the help of a back support and headgate to keep animal in position. Unit can be connected to the end of your raceway.

Only $189

R M 6 0 0 0

Table can rotate past level so feet point upward for easier trimming.

Our table has double side access doors which can be opened with the animal standing or rolled onto its side. Table also has an adjustable back support.

Only $395

S1102 Clutch Winch Stand

(shown with optional siderails $35)

S1100 Fold-Up Trimming Stand

Only $330 SR-4 4Head Show Rail

Only $995

SSD51 Easy Weight Sheep & Goat Scale

Call for your FREE CATALOG today or visit us at: www.dslivestock.biz

We have low freight rates or order for upcoming shows • 1-800-949-9997 • 1-301-689-1966 • Fax: 1-301-689-9727 18059 National Pike • Frostburg, Maryland 21532

Letter from the Editor The leap of faith...

There is something in each magazine that makes me think about our own goat operation (or our lifestyle) and the shows that we attend. This month, you will need to flip to the end of the magazine for my inspiration. There are days that we know we can succeed and we feel like we can jump off any ledge and land squarely on our feet. Other days, we may feel like we need someone there to catch us.

Raising livestock is unique. There are those sub-zero winter days when you know that every animal is depending on you for food, water and shelter. And, there are days when kidding isn’t going as smoothly as you’d hoped. But those rough days are always followed by some kind of simple pleasure.

Raising goats is something to which the greater population of the United States cannot relate. Showing at some of the major shows and watching the passersby point and watch as we fit our animals for the ring makes me realize just what a great life we have.

There are people who have never dried off a newborn kid and helped it reach for its first nourishment.

There are those who will never understand what it is like to bury your greatest herd buck or foundation doe. And, of course, there are those who will never understand why we raise meat goats whose ultimate role is to be a part of the world’s food source or to better the genetics of that source.

I am reminded that although our jobs are 24/7, 365-days a year, there is no greater life than that of a farmer or rancher. Just remember to find the simple pleasures in life each day and that some days you just need to take the leap of faith.

Karla Blackstock

ANNOUNCEMENTS JABGA Scholarships The JABGA Scholarship application is online. The application must be postmarked, postage paid by May 1.

The scholarship is open to any active member under the age of 21. The applicant must be either a high school senior or a college student in the fall of the year in which the application is made. All applications must be typed.

Good luck to all!

ABGA National Show Advertising Opportunities The advertising and sponsorship opportunities for the ABGA National Show are on sale. Please go to the “Advertise” link on the ABGA National Show site for additional information or to advertise.

Have you been wanting to advertise in The Boer Goat?

The Herd Sire edition will hit the first week of May and be handed out at the National Show. Call or email to book your ad today.

Lynn West The Boer goat industry lost another beloved breeder on December 29, 2015. Lynn West, at the age of 70, passed away. Lynn and Linda were married in 1964 and had two sons, Kenny and Jason.

Lynn and Linda have been members of the American Boer Goat Association and the Oklahoma Boer Goat Association since 2003.

Their dedication and love for the industry reached many breeders and youth in across the country.

The Boer Goat - 1

2015-2016 AMERICAN BOER GOAT ASSOCIATION

Board of Directors

REGION 14: CYNTHIA PRICE-WESTFALL (EC) PRESIDENT: cindy_price_westfall@yahoo.com REGION 8: SHON CALLAHAN (EC) VICE-PRESIDENT: fourcranch1@gmail.com REGION 10: TRACY DIEFENBACH SECRETARY: tldief@gmail.com REGION 6: PAUL GRAFE TREASURER: pgrafe@valbridge.com REGION 1: TERRY BROWN • capriole@pocketinet.com REGION 2: SCOTT PRUETT (EC) • eieiowefarms@yahoo.com REGION 3: LEE DANA • danagoats81@gmail.com REGION 4: JOEL (JR) PATTERSON • bobnjr@gmail.com REGION 5: JOE AIROSO (EC) • joeatalc@gmail.com REGION 7: DAWN STEWARD • dawnsteward25332@gmail.com REGION 9: VICKI STICH • ladyhogger59@hotmail.com REGION 11: JANIS WESSON (EC) • dustydan1@windstream.net REGION 12: BRANT KNOTTS • brantknotts@yahoo.com REGION 13: BRAD MACKEY (EC) PAST PRESIDENT: bradmackey@bmackfarms.com REGION 15: SUSAN BURNER • wvburners@comcast.net REGION 16: SARA DAVIS (EC) l csdavis@oakhollowlivestock.com

*EC DENOTES EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEMBER

2015-2016 AMERICAN BOER GOAT ASSOCIATION

Staff

LARY DUNCAN, Chief Executive Officer • lary@abga.org MARY ELLEN VILLARREAL, Executive Director • mary@abga.org CINDY DUSEK, Youth Coordinator • cindy@abga.org

MARIA LEAL, Registration Support • marial@abga.org

SONIA CERVANTEZ, Accounts Receivable • sonia@abga.org

MARINA ZEMKE, Registration Support • marina@abga.org AARON GILLESPIE, Show & Youth Coordinator • aaron@abga.org ASHLEY GUETIERREZ, Member Services • ashley@abga.org NICOLE PETRELLA, Receptionist • nicole@abga.org

ABGA OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday • 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (CST)

2 - The Boer Goat

Letter from the President This year has started to develop as a great year for the ABGA. The Fort Worth Stock Show hosted record exhibitors with a long list of new exhibitors to the show and the industry. Congratulations to show superintendents Jim Burke, Buzz Grant, Donna Lasater and their entire staff for hosting another outstanding event. For those members who have never attended the Fort Worth Stock Show, it is well worth the trip, not only, for the goats but also to see the 28,000 head of livestock covering all species that are exhibited.

The work of the newly established Boer Goat Youth Foundation of America (BGYFA) continues. The board will be expanded to include members from across the county. The foundation will be offering $10,000 in scholarships for the JABGA members. The scholarships will be awarded at the 2016 National Show. We are actively planning the 2nd annual fund raiser for the foundation.

The final plans for construction of a permanent home for the ABGA office are completed. This modern facility will provide a functional work space that can accommodate the current and future needs of the ABGA. We are in the process of obtaining competitive construction bids and anticipate starting construction this summer.

The ABGA staff has been working on a number of enhancements to the ABGA website on the ABGA online registration system. The next update will allow for the registration of ET and AI kids on the ABGA online system. We are targeting the 3rd quarter of 2016 for the next major system upgrade, which will allow access to the online by more operating systems and Apple based software.

The February face-to-face meeting is being held in Dallas during the printing of this edition. The focus of this meeting is to bring forth suggestions on how to increase ABGA membership, increase registrations and provide additional value to our members. We will compile suggestions and provide a survey to allow members to set the direction for the remainder of the year. Suggestions are hitting my email and it’s refreshing to be focusing on the enhancement and improvement of the ABGA and the Boer Goat industry!!!

I would like to welcome Aaron Gillespie to the position of JABGA Youth Coordinator. We are expecting great things for the JABGA and welcome his experience and leadership to the program. A special thanks to Lary, Mary Ellen, Karla and the entire ABGA staff for the dedication and service to the members.

Cindy Price-Westfall, President ABGA™ Board of Directors ©2016 American Boer Goat Association™

In This Issue

ABOUT THE COVER OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN BOER GOAT ASSOCIATION

5

Calendar of Events

6

Message from the CEO

8

Gillespie to Direct JABGA

9

JABGA

Photo by Kelly Jonas

10 Increasing ET Success 12

National Show Packet

Like most producers, keeping up with goats is a 365-day-a-year job, but Tasty Pets Farms has learned how to stop and enjoy each sunrise.

The Boer Goat CONTACT

20 What Boer Goats Tell us (Part 2)

1207 S. BRYANT BLVD. SUITE C SAN ANGELO, TX 76903 TEL: 325.486.2242 FAX: 325.486.2637

24 Breeder’s Spotlight: Dr. and Mrs.

PUBLISHER

Robert Herr

26 Managing Minerals - CA : P 28 Judges’ Corner - Jesse Cornelius 30 Urinary Calculi 34 Standouts 35 Classifieds 36 Photo Contest

AMERICAN BOER GOAT ASSOCIATION KARLA BLACKSTOCK, MANAGING EDITOR & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING?

The May/June issue of The Boer Goat will be our Herd Sire Edition. Make sure to showcase your ranch or company by advertising in the business card section or by purchasing ad space.

WANT TO SEE YOUR PHOTO IN THE MAGAZINE?

If you would like to see your photo in the next issue of The Boer Goat, please submit your picture to editor@abga.org. Please send photos in the largest size you have available.

The Boer Goat hereby expressly limits its liability resulting from any and all misprints, errors and/or all inaccuracies whatsoever in the advertisement and editorial content published by The Boer Goat and its said liability is here by limited to the refund of the customer or its payment for the said advertisement, the running of a corrected advertisement, or editorial notice. Notification by the customer of any errors must be made within 30 days of distribution of the magazine. The opinions or views expressed in all editorials are those of the writer or persons interviewed and not The Boer Goat. The Boer Goat does, however, reserve the right to edit or refuse all material, which might be objectable in content. No material or part thereof, may be reproduced or used out of context without prior, specific approval of a proper credit to The Boer Goat.

The Boer Goat - 3

4 - The Boer Goat

Calendar OF EVENTS 2016 Show Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Peach State Classic IMGP Spring Fling Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Rodeo Austin

Date

March

March 2 March 5 March 12 March 12 March 17

Location

Contact

NRG Park Georgia National Fairgrounds Seneca FFA Barn Rio Grande Valley Livestock Show Travis County Expo Center

832-667-1129 217-898-9358 956-565-2456 512-919-3000

April Best in the West Boer Goat Show CBGA April Fools Event Cedar City Classic KGBP Sale Spring Spectacular 1st Annual Jack M Talley Memorial Boer Goat Show MSU Spring Classic Show Me Spring Spectacular 9th Annual Diamond Classic Daviess County Open Boer Goat Show Delmarva Classic Bourbon and Boers BGANC 2016 Boer Goat Blitz Gulf Coast Spring Fling OBGA Spring Classic/Silver Series Show 1 8th Annual Arkansas Classic OMGP Spring Shows & Pen Sale Guernsey County Barn Blitz

April 2-3 April 2-3 April 2-3 April 9 April 9-10 April 16-17

Tehama District Fairgrounds Clark County Fairgrounds James E Ward Ag Center Lebanon Valley Livestock Exp Center Hunt County Fairgrounds Nolan County Coliseum

916-687-8030 360-748-1709 615-967-1415 717-776-7583 903-456-8752 325-725-7012

April 16 April 23 April 23-24 April 23 April 23 April 23 April 29-30 April 30-May 1 April 30 April 30 April 30 April 30-May 1

Derrickson Agriculture Complex Missouri State Fairgrounds Pike County Fairgrounds Daviess County 4-H Fairgrounds Delaware State Fair Scott County Fairgrounds WNC Agricultural Center Brazoria County Fairgrounds Garvin County Fair Barns Yamhill County Fairgrounds Yamhill County Fairgrounds Guernsey County Fairgrounds

812-225-6298 816-657-2274 870-828-1734 812-444-9580 302-236-2107 606-634-9845 336-362-57820 713-293-2546 918-822-7271 870-429-5780 541-228-85820 740-584-6362

The Boer Goat - 5

Message

I recently made a trip to Fort Worth to attend a face-toface Boer Goat Youth Foundation of America (BGYFA) Board of Director meeting and to watch the ABGA’s largest sanctioned show outside of our own National Show where record numbers were presented this year. Competition was fierce for this two-day event with Boer Goats from 14 states represented. Congratulations to all the exhibitors for displaying such a fine set of Boer goats. The growth I have witnessed in the Fort Worth show over the past eight years only confirms for me that the interest in raising and showing Boer goats is still alive and well.

The (BGYFA) board met during the show where they nominated potential new board members and put a plan in motion to roll out details on their first set of JABGA scholarships. Be sure to watch the JABGA and ABGA websites for details on scholarship applications for JABGA youth. The BGYFA will host a fund raising auction at the 2016 National Show and announce their 2016 scholarship winners. This event will be hosted online by DV auctions for those unable to attend. Your contributions and support of this worthy cause would certainly be greatly appreciated.

I found myself back on the road a week later where as a representative of the ABGA serving as a director for the American Goat Federation (AGF) at their annual face-to-face BOD meeting and seminar. For those of you not familiar with the AGF, they are the voice of the goat industry in Washington DC for all three types of goats which include: Meat, Fiber, and Milk. They have aligned themselves with the American Sheep Industry to present a unified voice where small ruminants are concerned in government. Our voice is needed

6 - The Boer Goat

Photo by Laura Hague of Ft. Worth Stock Show

from the CEO to deter potentially harmful legislation and to promote beneficial programs, which help to ensure our current way of life with goats. Due to the type of membership the ABGA has with the AGF, you can become a member at a discounted rate of only $20 annually and receive updates as well as attend their annual conference/seminars at no cost. For information on the AGF or to become a member you can go to http://www.americangoatfederation.org/ Our 2016 JABGA / ABGA National Boer Goat show is just around the corner. For those of you planning to attend, you may want to consider getting those registrations in early to beat the last minute rush season. Current registration turnaround time in most cases has been running under four days provided all the information is provided is correct. We will face some competition this year for National Show exhibitor’s time as this year’s show dates conflict with some schools late summer break closings, school make-up snow days and overlaps with the 2016 World Pork Expo. We have taken the steps necessary for this to be corrected for you where the 2017 National Show is concerned.

On a final note, for eligible JABGA/ABGA members, the notifications for JABGA and BGYFA scholarship applications should be out or about to go out if you feel you are worthy of consideration be sure to get an application returned in time to be considered.

Respectfully,

Lary Duncan American Boer Goat Association C.E.O.

2nd Annual Spring Fever Sale May 14, 2016 Johnston County Livestock Arena Smithfield, NC

D&J Goat Farm LLC

Crawford Boer Goats

County Line Farm

Derek and Jackie Beane

John Crawford

Scott Simmons

Seagrove, NC

Burlington, NC

Ellerbe, NC

www.dandjgoatfarms.com

www.crawfordboergoats.com

www.facebook.com/Clfgoats

T and T Farm

Jackson Creek Farm

Circle E Farm

Tim, Pam and Tyler Wallace Todd McLeod

Jerry and Janet Elliott

Robbins, NC

Trinity, NC

Cerro Gordo, NC

facebook.com/tandtfarms

www.jacksoncreekfarm.com

910-654-3158

Big Poplar Farm

Little Redman Creek

John McInnis Farm

 Powdercoated ends won’t rust - your ranch color.  Commercial grade pipe won’t crack or split.  Four spring loaded clips secure feeder in place.  Four sizes: 12”, 18”, 24” and 48”.

Dusty and Trish Cockerham Todd, Mary Lou and Kali Mabe John McInnis Greensboro, NC

Sandy Ridge, NC

Norman, NC

www.bigpoplarfarm.com

336-462-0773

910-206-5560

Free De to Natiolinvery als!

ABGA #10700216

16 ABGA Points #10686619

Facebook.com/20thanniversarysale These Genetics Sell!!

LRCF FANCY THAT

www.blackstockfarms.net (Click on Legacy IW Feeders)

Wild and Wonderful Boer Goat Sale

May 21, 2016

Jackson’s Mill Weston, West Virginia ASHS Boer Goats Far View Farms Holsey's Horns N Halos Soggy Bottom Boer East Heritage Boer Goats

Losch’s Riverview Farm Palmetto Moon Boer Goats Creek Bottom Farm Seebach's Hidden Acres

Reference Sires

Losch’s R.V.F. Volt's Night Cloud

Paint the Town Red * ENNOBLED

Far View Farms Complete Dispersal 3LF Stargate SELLS!

Catalog: boergoats.com Transport Available

AABG Red Zone

The Boer Goat - 7

Aaron Gillespie to Direct the JABGA Aaron Gillespie stepped into his dual role as Show and Youth Coordinator in February 2016. The Boer Goat caught up with Aaron so he could share some of his plans for the youth of the Boer Goat industry.

I was born and raised in Fort Worth, TX, to a non-agriculture family. I started hunting during my high school years and fell in love with wildlife and the outdoors. I moved to San Angelo to pursue a degree in Animal Science with a Range and Wildlife Minor. During my time at Angelo State University (ASU), I gained an enormous amount of knowledge and experience in agriculture and leadership. The professors and the internships I held helped me get where I am today.

How has your experience with the ABGA prepared you to take our youth program to the next level?

Seeing how ABGA and the Board of Directors operates has given me an advantage to know what direction they want the JABGA to go. Working side-by-side on a daily basis with the CEO and Executive Director has benefited me a lot.

From registrations to shows and JABGA events, I can bring all these parts together and create a bright future for the JABGA programs.

What are going to be your priorities?

Some of what I would like to improve on include: 1) Membership- I want to reach out to parts of the country that do not have many breeders/members/shows. Making a presence with JABGA in these areas will help us grow.

2) Shows- Growing the JABGA Sanctioned Show Program and making the Regional Shows bigger and better each year is important. I want to add some more incentive for big fairs/ expos to host a JABGA Regional Show in the future.

3) Scholarships- This is a program that we need to focus on and grow.

Helping deserving young

8 - The Boer Goat

adults with the cost of higher education is something that I can relate too. With my experience and the youth’s ideas, we can make this program grow exponentially.

4) Participation- An increase in participation can only make things better. Participation of the junior membership can bring more ideas and suggestions to the table when it comes to JABGA programs. We can discuss all these great ideas all day long, but it will important to put boots on the ground and increase participation.

What would you tell a young person looking to join and become active in the JABGA? How will this benefit them as a person?

Life lessons. Through the JABGA, you will learn and participate in events that will teach team work, leadership, responsibility, accountability and fellowship. These are all great values that can be used outside of JABGA in every day life.

What is your message to someone heading off to college?

When you head off to college, you are starting a part of your life that will set you up for your future. Get involved and stay active. I learned this when I was in college. Stay active in the Boer goat industry and volunteer your time and thoughts to a group or organization that can benefit from your experiences.

I am looking forward to working with the JABGA again.

I enjoy seeing the passion and drive in the junior members.

Just seeing their faces and expressions when they win a contest or class is priceless.

The future looks very bright for the ABGA and JABGA and can’t wait to get stated on the journey.

Area 5 JABGA Director - Rebecca Simpson I am 17 years old and am a senior at Ballinger High School. I am also a member of NHS. I have been a member of the JABGA for seven years and have been raising and showing goats since that time.

My aunt, Cindy Dusek, took me to my first National Show when I was in the 6th grade. I fell in love with showing, and it has been a part of my life since. Having the responsibility of raising and showing goats has taught me a lot of qualities that I apply to my everyday life.

Showing goats even got me into powerlifting in high school, where I have qualified for State every year that I have participated and was fortunate enough to become a State Champion in 2015. I look forward to serving on the JABGA board and will work hard to make it better.

2016 JABGA Regional Shows Area 1 The Big Top Boer Goat Show July 16th, 2016 : Chehalis, WA Danette Fuhrer- (360) 748-1709

Area 3 cont.

Maryland State Fair August 27, 2016 : Timonium, MD 21094 Rebecca Williams – (410) 252-0200 x 231

The Rolling Hills Casino Boeranza December 3rd, 2016 Corning, CA Megan Elwood – (916) 705-1582

Area 4 8th Annual Arkansas Classic April 30th, 2016 : Little Rock, AR Anita Savage – (870) 429-5780

Area 2 IMGP JABGA Fall Classic September 3, 2016 : Paris, IL Deric Wetherell – (217) 898-9358

Area 5 Jack M. Talley Memorial Goat Show April 16, 2016 : Sweetwater, TX Brad Hendrix – (325) 725-7012

Tall Corn Meat Goat Wether Assoc. JABGA Reg. Show August 6, 2016 : Washington, IA Ron & Chris Grier – (319) 430-4332

Marble Falls Spooktacular November 5, 2016 : Marble Falls, TX Jeff Jeffcoat – (830) 265-4197

Area 3 West Virginia Boer Goat Blitz May 21, 2016 : Kearneysville, WV Susan Burner – (304) 279-6323

The Boer Goat - 9

Increasing the Success of an ET Program

By Dr. Zane Gray

Dr. Zane Gray is a graduate from the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He grew up in Toledo, Iowa, raising show sheep, which piqued his interest in small ruminant reproduction. He is the lead veterinarian for the small ruminant division of Trans Ova Genetics, which is headquartered out of their Chillicothe, Missouri facility. He is performing laparoscopic artificial insemination and embryo transfer work with sheep and goats. Standing strong in the bovine world of embryo transfer for more than 30 years, Trans Ova is enthusiastic to enter the small ruminant industry combining the passion of new employees like Dr. Zane Gray with the abundance of knowledge from a time-honored staff in the field of advanced reproductive technologies.

Health

Embryo Transfer (ET) is an advanced reproductive technology that many goat producers are utilizing in their herds to Evaluate donors for signs of illness including lethargy, increase the number of offspring from elite genetics. lameness, and poor hair coat. A female in good health should ET is a process involving multiple follicles ovulating from a be utilized in an ET program as any sort of health stress could donor doe’s ovaries after she has received specific hormones compromise her results. being administered at specific times. The donor is then Evaluate donors for heavy parasite burden such as worms. artificially inseminated (AI’ed) or bred naturally. Finally, six I recommend treating parasites four weeks prior to impledays after insemination, the embryos are developed enough menting a hormone shot regime. to be flushed from the donor’s uterus. The embryos may be Administer any modified live vaccines, at the minimum, 30 transferred to surrogate (recipient) mothers or cryopreserved days prior to implementing a shot schedule. (frozen) to be transferred at a later date. Frozen embryos will Work with your herd health veterinarian to discuss the best be maintained in liquid nitrogen storage units, preserving themoptions of vaccinations for your herd’s needs and region. until time of transfer. ET should be performed by a veterinarian due to the prescriptive nature of the drugs required and skills needed to perform the procedure.

Donors and recipients should be on a good nutritional Embryo transfer results are generally discussed in terms of plane. A body condition score of 2.5, out of 5, is recommendaverages - eight transferable embryos is considered average ed. Obese or very thin animals typically do not produce as well to good for a typical flush. Some flushes can result in twenty in donor embryo producembryos while tion or in terms of pregnanothers result in zero cy rate as recipients. embryos. DeterIncrease the energy mining the exact in the diet four weeks reason for poor prior to implementing your results in embryo superovulation program. transfer can be Increasing the energy can difficult. That said, prime the reproductive the following are tract and lead to better some tips I recomstimulation, and more mend for increaspregnancies, on flush day. ing a doe’s viable Make sure donors and embryo production. recipients are on a

Nutrition

10 - The Boer Goat

recommended to record when each recipient first showed signs of being in heat. Teaser bucks make this easier, but most goat producers can tell if a goat is exhibiting a heat through her vocal tones, tail flagging and mucous discharge from the vulva. If a heat is not observed, the recipient should be removed from the Donors and recipients should ET program due to the likeliness be placed in their social groups at of her NOT making a pregnancy least 30 days prior to implementif implanted with an embryo. ing your superovulation schedule These are some of the basic and remain in that group for at management tips I recommend least 30 days after embryos are to breeders to increase the transferred. It provides adequate success of their ET program. time for goats to establish Each producer’s circumstances hierarchy and reduce fighting. are different and no ET program Goats should be provided Seven-day-old quality embryos. All photos supplied by Trans is exactly the same. I strongly with adequate housing. They suggest involving your ET veteriOva Genetics. need to be able to get out of the narian and your local veterinarian bad environmental factors, which may include placing fans for recommendations related to your specific geography and on them during the hot months. Monitor them to make sure individual herd. they seem comfortable.

If a handling system is being used to administer shots, I recommend walking the animals through it on a regular basis prior to starting a super ovulation schedule. balanced feed ration. Animals in regions that are naturally deficient in certain vitamins and minerals may need to be supplemented. Shots of vitamin A, D, & E or selenium are some of the most commonly given supplemental shots.

Environment

Buck Management

Many producers choose to use semen freshly collected from a buck to AI their donors. Results have shown that producers realize the best embryo fertilization using this method; however, there are some buck management tips that should be implemented, as follows: Have your veterinarian perform a semen evaluation of the buck four weeks prior to the AI date. If the buck happens to be sterile, now is the time to be lining up another buck or thinking about using frozen semen.

If the buck has been sexually inactive, set up a clean out doe for him to breed five days prior to your AI date. A clean out doe will help the ram remove any old or dead sperm from his reproductive tract, which hopefully translates to a high quality semen sample on the AI date.

Twenty-four hours of sexual inactivity for the buck, prior to the AI date, is essential to help insure an adequate amount of ejaculate can be collected.

Recipient

Recipients should be closely monitored for heats. It is

The Boer Goat - 11

2016 NATIONAL SHOW SCHEDULE SATURDAY- June 4 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm - JABGA and Buy In’s unload and move in SUNDAY - June 5 6:00 am to 4:00 pm - JABGA and ABGA unload, move & check in 5: 30 pm - JABGA (Meet and Greet Pizza Party) MONDAY - June 6 8:00 am to 3:00 pm - ABGA unload, move & check-in 8:00 am - JABGA Skill-A-Thon Contest opens 8:45 am - OPENING CEREMONY AND WELCOME 9:00 am - JABGA Showmanship Classes (Followed by the JABGA Classes) Noon (or following JABGA Showmanship) - LUNCH 1:00 pm - Resume JABGA National Show 6: 00 pm - JABGA Public Speaking Contest 6:30 pm - JABGA Skill-A-Thon Contest Closes TUESDAY - June 7 9:00 AM - Resume JABGA National Show 8:00 am – JABGA Goat Judging Contest Noon - LUNCH 1:00 pm - Resume JABGA National Show JUDGES CONTINUING EDUCATION 6:00 pm - Boer Goat Youth Foundation of America Fund Raising Auction WEDNESDAY - June 8 8:00 am – JABGA Goat Judging Contest 9:00 am - ABGA Open Percentage Doe Show Noon - LUNCH

12 - The Boer Goat

Noon - JABGA Stick Goat contest 1:00 pm - Resume ABGA Open Percentage Pair Classes Immediately Follow Percentage Get of Sire, Percentage Doe Herd After Percentage Show ABGA Open Junior Fullblood Show Begins 6:00 pm - ABGA General Membership Meeting 6:00 pm - JABGA General Membership Meeting THURSDAY - June 9 9:00 am - Resume ABGA Open Fullblood Doe Show Noon - LUNCH Noon - JABGA BOOT SCRAMBLE – JABGA Goat Costume Contest Specialty Doe Class 5 yrs or older Pair Classes Immediately follows selection of Overall Champions 6:00 pm - ABGA Awards Appreciation Dinner & Live Auction 6:00 (Silent Auction ends) FRIDAY - June 10 [Autism Day (Teal Blue)] 8:00 am - ABGA Open Buck Show Noon - LUNCH 1:00 pm - Resume Open Buck Show Specialty Bucks 5 yrs or older Open Buck Show group classes follows selection of Overall Champions Best Pair of Bucks kids Best Pair of Sr. Bucks from above classes Get of Sire, Produce of Dam, Breeders herd SATURDAY - June 11 All animals must be out of barn by noon.

2016 ABGA National Show Rules Eligibility – ABGA National Show: Exhibitors must be a current active adult or junior member or junior member’s sibling or step sibling with current membership at same address with linked junior accounts documented with the American Boer Goat Association to submit a show entry for the ABGA National Show. Competition is open to goats registered in the Herdbooks of ABGA

by May 1, 2016 for the 2016 National Show. Active or junior members of ABGA must be listed as the current owner on the ABGA registration certificate on or before May 1, 2016. Custom fitters / agents, if different from the owner, will register with the Show Chair if the owner will not be in attendance at the show. There is no limit on the number of goats that can be entered in a class by a member. Application for entry must be on current, official entry forms. Junior members can enter the ABGA National Show by completing the entry and paying the correct fees for each goat.

Eligibility – JABGA National Show: Exhibitors must be a current member of the Junior American Boer Goat Association to submit a show entry for the JABGA National Show. Goats must be registered in the JABGA member’s name or junior member’s sibling or step sibling with current membership at same address with linked junior accounts documented with ABGA. No ranch or family name can be listed in the owner section of the certificate. There is no limit on the number of goats that can be entered in a class by a member. If the JABGA owner has more than one entry in a class, the other goats must be shown by another JABGA member. Application for entry must be on current, official entry forms.

Defining an Exhibitor: Throughout the ABGA and JABGA National Show Rules the term “exhibitor” is defined as the owner or junior member’s sibling or step sibling with current membership with linked junior accounts documented with ABGA, of the goat listed in the ABGA registry.

Defining a Participant: Throughout the ABGA National Show and JABGA National Show Rules the term “participant” includes but is not limited to an exhibitor, agent, custom fitter, vendor, office staff, ring steward or spectator.

Junior Exhibitor Age Requirement: In order to show, the junior exhibitor must be at least 4 years of age on the day of the show. Maximum exhibitor age is 18 years of age or younger on January 1, 2016.

JABGA Showmanship Classes: Exhibitors entered in showmanship classes must own or be a junior member’s sibling or step sibling with current membership at same address with linked junior accounts documented with the ABGA of the goat that is being shown. The animal shown in showmanship must have been entered in the JABGA or JABGA Bred and Owned shown by the same exhibitor showing it in showmanship.

Special Needs of an Exhibitor: Exhibitors with special needs are required to indicate what special needs they have on the entry form and check in at the office upon arrival at the show.

Interpretation and Violation of Rules: The American Boer Goat Association (ABGA) Executive Committee has final and absolute right to interpret these rules and to arbitrarily settle and determine all matters, questions and differences in regard thereto or otherwise arising out of or connected with, or incident to, the ABGA National Show or JABGA National Show. The ABGA further reserves to its Executive Committee the right to amend or add to these rules as its judgment may determine. Any exhibitor, custom fitter, agent or spectator who violates any of the rules will forfeit all privileges and be subject to such penalty as the Executive Committee may order. The Executive Committee may apply other penalties and sanctions from time to time as deemed appropriate.

Show Chair: National Show regulations and show rules will be adhered to and enforced by ABGA National Show Chair. The decision of the Show Chair shall be final in all cases except where a protest has been properly filed.

Judges Decision: The decision of the judges shall be final in all cases except where fraud or misrepresentation on the part of an exhibitor is proven. Any such claim of an exhibitor’s fraud or misrepresentation must be timely submitted as an official protest.

Official Protests: Official protests for exhibitor’s fraud or misrepresentation shall be submitted to the Show Chair in writing and be accompanied by $300.00 fee. The ABGA Executive Committee reserves the right to refund the $300.00 fee. Only members in good standing with ABGA can file a protest. Any such protest must plainly state the fraud or misrepresentation of the exhibitor. Any protest filed more than 24 hours after the alleged incident shall not be considered. Protests shall be referred to the Executive Committee which shall have full and final authority to determine the matter and from whose decision there is no appeal. The Executive Committee will determine the method in which the protest is reviewed. Judging procedures shall not be interrupted for protest investigation.

Disqualification: Any goat showing any pronounced defect or abnormality will be barred from the show. Any evidence of a cosmetic surgical alteration of an exhibited goat will be a disqualification. Any goat found not to be in accordance with Rule 1400.K. will be disqualified. Artificial coloring will be a disqualification. Illegible tattoos or tattoos inconsistent with registration papers will result in disqualification. Any goat testing positive for any performance enhancing drug and/or chemical, their substitutes or derivatives will be disqualified. Should any goat that has been awarded a prize be disqualified before its class has been dismissed from the show ring, the lower placing goats shall move up to fill the vacancy. Should any goat be disqualified

after the class has been dismissed from the show ring, the lower placing goats will not move into any higher position.

No Liability: ABGA or JABGA SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY LOSS, INJURY OR DAMAGE IN CONNECTION WITH, ARISING OUT OF OR INCIDENTAL TO THE ABGA NATIONAL SHOW or JABGA NATIONAL SHOW. Release of Liability: PARTICIPANT EXPRESSLY WAIVES ALL RIGHTS TO CLAIM AGAINST ABGA

BY REASON OF, AND RELEASES ABGA FROM ANY LIABILITY WHATSOEVER WITH RESPECT TO, ANY INJURY TO PERSON OR DAMAGE TO OR LOSS OF PROPERTY (INCLUDING CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES) RESULTING FROM ANY CAUSE WHATSOEVER (EXPRESSLY INCLUDING ABGA’S NEGLIGENCE).

Indemnification: PARTICIPANT AGREES TO HOLD HARMLESS AND UNCONDITIONALLY INDEMNIFY ABGA AGAINST AND FOR ALL CLAIMS, LIABILITIES, LOSSES, COSTS, EXPENSES, AND DAMAGES (ACTUAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR PUNITIVE) WHICH ABGA MAY AT ANY TIME SUFFER OR SUSTAIN OR BECOME LIABLE FOR BY REASON OF ANY ACCIDENTS, DAMAGES, INJURIES OR LOSSES EITHER TO PERSONS, PROPERTY OR BOTH, OF PARTICIPANT, OF ANY OTHER PARTICIPANT, OF ANY OTHER PARTIES, OR TO THE PROPERTY OF ABGA, IN ANY MATTER ARISING FROM, CONNECTED WITH OR INCIDENT TO THE ACTIVITIES HEREUNDER, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY NEGLIGENT ACT OR OMISSION OF ABGA, IT’S OFFICERS AGENTS, EMPLOYEES OR VOLUNTEERS. [THE TERM “ABGA” MEANS AMERICAN BOER GOAT ASSOCIATION, JUNIOR AMERICAN BOER GOAT ASSOCIATION, ITS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, RING STEWARDS, AND VOLUNTEERS.] Computing Ages for ABGA & JABGA National Show: ABGA will establish June 1 as the ending date for computing age classes.

Classes with more than 50 entries will be divided into classes as equal as possible with no more than 50 to a class and all class breaks will be done by age. Date of birth as listed on the ABGA registration certificate will be used to determine the class breaks. The first and second from each class will return to the ring for the Championship Drive.

Entry Deadline: To enter the 2016 National Show without paying double the entry fee, entries and fees must be in the ABGA office by the end of business day May 1, 2016 (5:00 P.M. CST).

Entry fees are nonrefundable.

Entry Fees / Late Entries: The entry fee for goats is $40 per head in the ABGA National Show and $30 per head in the JABGA National Show. The entry fee for the Bred and Owned JABGA is $20 per head. Substitutions are available for a fee of $25 per head until the end of Check In at 4:00 p.m. Sunday June 5 for JABGA exhibitors, and 3:00 p.m. Monday, June 6, for ABGA Open Show Exhibitors.

All entry fee(s) for goats received after 5:00 P.M. CST on May 1st are doubled. Mail courier and other delays are not considered in determining entry fees: the receipt date will determine if an entry fee is doubled.

Please remember the Herdbook closes May 1, 2016, for the 2016 ABGA Nationals and JABGA Nationals. Entries are required to provide the information as listed on the entry form. Entry for group classes is required but will also be done at check-in.

Identification: All goats must have a legible permanent ear identification (ear tags are not permanent IDs) corresponding to the registration certificate upon arrival on the grounds. GOATS WILL BE DISQUALIFIED FROM JUDGING WITHOUT PROPER IDENTIFICATION. All goats must be registered purebred, fullblood or percentage Boer goats. Percentage doe classes are for goats 50% to 87.5% Boer. Fullblood classes are for does that are 15/16 blood (93.7%) and higher and 31/32 blood (96.8%) and higher for bucks. Progeny of fresh does will NOT be allowed in the ring. Goats entered in group classes also must be entered and shown in the appropriate individual class. Does must have kidded or exhibited pregnancy by 24 months of age.

JABGA Bred & Owned Classes: All JABGA National Show entries reflecting the JABGA member as both the Breeder and the Owner can be entered into the applicable JABGA Bred & Owned Class in addition to the regular class for an additional $20.00.

Heelers / JABGA National Show: Heelers are allowed in the JABGA National Show in the yearling classes and older to assist youth exhibitors under the age of twelve (12) as of January 1, or members with physical or mental disabilities. [The youth exhibitor must show their goat and be assisted by the heeler]. Heelers must be a JABGA Board Member.

Unauthorized Goats: Goats for which the owner has not paid an entry fee will not be allowed on the grounds, with the exception of those goats that are nursing (Examples: the dam of a 60-day-old entry or the 40-day-old offspring of a two-year-old entry). All goats on the grounds must meet Nebraska State health requirements.

Unruly Goats: The exhibitor will be liable for damage to fences, other goats or injury to people.

In addition to penning, unruly bucks may be required to be restrained or removed from the show if deemed necessary by the show management. If any goat is a threat to the public or is unruly, precautions must be taken. Exhibitors are responsible for the actions of their goats.

The Boer Goat - 13

Judging: Exhibitors are responsible for knowing the times at which their goats will be judged.

Any goat not presented promptly will be ruled ineligible and barred from competition in the class.

Participant Conduct: If any participant, in any way, whether in person or by agent or employee, interferes with the judges, show officials or staff during their adjudication or shows any disrespect to them or the show, ABGA may demand a proper apology from the exhibitor, may exclude the exhibitor and goat in question from competition, bar exhibitor from the grounds, and may also withhold prizes that may have been awarded. The Executive Committee may apply other penalties and sanctions from time to time as deemed appropriate.

Nebraska State Fairgrounds at Fonner Park Regulations: Exhibitors are responsible for knowing the regulations of the Nebraska State Fairgrounds. Regulations will be enforced by ABGA Show Chair and/or Nebraska State Fairgrounds at Fonner Park officials. Any charges or material cost incurred by ABGA due to an exhibitor violation or ignorance of these regulations will be paid by the exhibitor. The facility is a non-smoking, no alcohol venue, and cooking is not allowed inside the facility.

Goat Health Requirements: Goats must be accompanied by a current health certificate to enter the state of Nebraska. The health certificate is to be issued by your veterinarian within the past 30 days and must state the goats are for show purposes. All goats are expected to be healthy, free of disease and in show condition. All goats in the barn must comply with Federal and State Scrapie and the state of Nebraska animal health requirements. ABGA assumes no duty or responsibility nor shall it otherwise be liable to any exhibitor for any of the following: (i) the prevention of disease; (ii) the protection of goats from disease or exposure to disease; (iii) the enforcement of animal health laws or regulations; or (iv) notifications or warnings about disease or other animal health related concerns. In this regard, ABGA shall not be liable for any damages, injuries or losses arising from, connected with or related to disease or the exposure of goats thereto. This includes, but is not limited to, actual and consequential damages.

Nebraska State Veterinary Office: The Nebraska State USDA Office contact number is (402) 4712351. The website is: www.nda.nebraska.gov/regulations/animal/tilac.html#7. Each exhibitor’s veterinarian is required to call the Nebraska State USDA Office to obtain animal health requirements. Exhibitors failing to meet Nebraska animal health requirements are subject to fines and removal from the Nebraska State Fairgrounds at Fonner Park.

Veterinary Services: ABGA will provide contact information to exhibitors during check-in of a local veterinarian that can assist exhibitors with goat health issues. The contact information of the veterinarian will also be posted in the check-in area.

Pets: Pets (dogs, in particular) are strictly prohibited from being on the grounds.

Exhibitor Parking: The Nebraska State Fairgrounds at Fonner Park will provide trailer parking which is at the risk of the exhibitor. Exhibitors may only park in designated areas reserved for the ABGA Nationals. Vehicles and trailers improperly parked will be fined and towed at the exhibitor’s expense.

Exhibitor Numbers: Each entry will be assigned a number. Exhibitors will receive cards which correspond with the numbers; these cards must be worn by the exhibitor in the show ring when goats are being judged.

Show Schedule: A tentative schedule is listed in the show packet and noted as subject to change. The schedule of classes for the show will be posted each day. The schedule of classes is at the discretion of the Ring Stewards based on in the barn entries.

All Goats MUST Be Out of the Barn by Noon Saturday June 11, 2016.

Fitting: Fitting will be left to the discretion of the exhibitor. All fitting and trimming must be done in the designated area. No fitting or trimming will be permitted in the arena area. Any altering of pigmentation is prohibited. If an exhibitor’s goat is found to have altered pigmentation, the goat will be disqualified from the show and the exhibitor will be subject to terms of ABGA Rule 1400.L. Any evidence of a cosmetic surgical alteration of an exhibited goat will be a disqualification and that exhibitor will be subject to terms of ABGA Rule 1400. The use of any performance enhancing drug and/or chemical, their substitutes or derivatives, is prohibited and will result in disqualification and that exhibitor will be subject to terms of ABGA Rule 1400.L. The exhibitor agrees to submit any goat entered by him/her to inspection by any veterinarian appointed by the Board of Directors and agrees to have such goat submitted to such tests as may be requested.

DNA Testing / Urine, Ultrasound, Blood, or Hair Testing: ABGA reserves the right to perform one or any combination of a random DNA, urine, blood, and or hair laboratory test, and or an ultrasound scan of any goat entered for competition, at ABGA’s discretion. The ABGA reserves the right to test any or all champions at their discretion. The conclusions based upon the analysis of any of these tests by the veterinarian in charge shall be final, conclusive, and without recourse against ABGA, any officer, director, volunteer or employee there of or any veterinarian in charge shall be final, conclusive, and with recourse against ABGA, any officer, director, volunteer or employee thereof or any veterinarian appointed by the ABGA. The exhibitor waives any right of action which he might have for action taken under this rule and releases ABGA and the veterinarian from any claims or demands whatsoever in connection with the inspection or testing of any such goat or any ruling or action taken due to the conclusion of the veterinarian. All testing required by the ABGA will be performed at a laboratory selected by ABGA, excluding ultrasound which may be performed on location, will be paid for by ABGA and will be completed within 60

14 - The Boer Goat

days after the show. If a goat tests positive for a performance enhancing substance at a national show that goat will be banned from competing in any future ABGA and JABGA sanctioned shows. The owner must surrender the registration certificate to the ABGA office within 30 days of receipt of notice for labeling as ineligible to show. In the event the owner fails to surrender the registration certificate to the ABGA office the owner shall be subject to further sanctions as described in ABGA Rule 1400.L. NOTE: With the exception of sales of semen or goats owned by the exhibitor advertising on the End Cap, or the exhibitor whose goats are penned in the pens, NO VENDOR OR INDIVIDUAL SALES WILL BE ALLOWED from the Display / Tack Pens or End Cap Areas.

Pens: Due to the expected large number of entries and limited goat pens; pens will be assigned based on 1.5 goats per pen based on the number goats presented by the exhibitor to show officials at check-in. Allowances are made for a tack area and multiple bucks over one year of age providing space is available. The assigning of pens is at the discretion of the Ring Stewards. Pens for entries received at check-in are subject to availability. Upon arrival, the pens will have shavings if paid at time of entry. Additional shavings will be available for a fee at the Fairgrounds office.

Pens will be pre-assigned before the show. Members can divide the pens with a divider. There will be no reserving” pen space for other exhibitors. If several exhibitors want to pen together, they must note this on their entry form.

Exhibitors may have a sign over their exhibit advertising their own herd. Show Chair can remove exhibitors’ signs at their discretion. A goat pen can be used as a tack or display as long as the display and tack fits in the pen. Tack and goat carts will not be allowed in alleys, showing area or staging area.

Pen Chart Head

Pens

1 or 2

1

3 or 4

2

5

3

6 or 7

4

8

5

9 or 10

6

11

7

12 or 13

8

14

9

15 or 16

10

17

11

18 or 19

12

Premier Exhibitor Award: The Premier Exhibitor Award 20 13 will be given to the Premier Percentage Exhibitor and the Premier Fullblood Exhibitor determined by the 10 point 21 or 22 14 system. The exhibitor must be an active member of ABGA 23 15 and be listed as the current owner on the ABGA registration certificate and in ABGA records. Each exhibitor must enter 24 or 25 16 a minimum of three goats in the respective herd books. If See Show there are 10 or more goats in the class, the first place goat Over 25 Official will receive 10 points, second place 9 points, etc., through tenth. If there are less than 10 goats, the first place goat will receive points equal to the number in the class. Class totals will be determined from the total number of goats entered in a class from the official class sheets. Goats owned in partnership will accrue points for that partnership towards the Premier Percentage Exhibitor or Premier Full Blood Exhibitor Award. In the event of a tie the exhibitor winning the most first place awards will receive the award. If the tie still exists then the one with the most second place awards will win. If necessary this process will continue until the tie is broken. ABGA will post accumulated points daily. It will be the responsibility of the exhibitor to review these points and report any discrepancies to the Show Chair.

Champion points Premier Exhibitor Award will be determined as follows:

Placing

Points

Grand Champion Junior Percentage

10 pts

Reserve Champion Junior Percentage

5 pts

Grand Champion Yearling Percentage

10 pts

Reserve Champion Yearling Percentage

5 pts

Grand Champion Senior Percentage

10 pts

Reserve Champion Senior Percentage

5 pts

National Grand Champion Percentage

10 pts

National Reserve Champion Percentage

5 pts

Grand Champion Junior Fullblood

10 pts

Reserve Champion Junior Fullblood

5 pts

Grand Champion Yearling Fullblood

10 pts

Reserve Champion Yearling Fullblood

5 pts

Grand Champion Senior Fullblood

10 pts

Reserve Champion Senior Fullblood

5 pts

National Grand Champion Fullblood

10 pts

National Reserve Champion Fullblood

5 pts

The Donald Bird Premier Breeder: The point system for the Premier Exhibitor will be used giving the same points to the breeder. THIS AWARD IS FOR FULLBLOOD BOER GOATS ONLY.

*Awards for Junior Show Classes: Class winners will receive a buckle in both the JABGA and Bred & Owned JABGA shows. Ribbons will be awarded to the first through tenth place goats in all JABGA classes and first through fifth on bred and owned JABGA classes. Junior, Yearling, and Senior Division Grand Champions and Reserve Grand Champions receive a rosette or banner in the JABGA and Bred & Owned JABGA shows. A cash prize, banner or rosette, and trophy will be awarded to the Overall Grand Champion ($400) and Overall Reserve Grand Champion ($300) goats in the JABGA and Bred & Owned JABGA show.

JABGA Premiums: Premiums in the individual JABGA and JABGA Bred and Owned classes will be paid based on the following Schedule: # in class

1st

2nd

3rd

4th

5th

6th

7th

1–2

20

3–4

25

20

5–8

30

25

20

9 – 12

35

30

25

20

13 – 16

40

35

30

25

20

17 – 20

45

40

35

30

25

20

21 – 24

50

45

40

35

30

25

20

25 +

55

50

45

40

35

30

25

8th

*Per IRS Regulations, a cash prize may be subject to an IRS Form 1099 and will be held for proper documentation as required.

Pair Classes: Entry fee is $5 per pair. Goats must be shown in their regular class and pre-entered. Pair entries must be owned by the same exhibitor. Entry Deadline and Entry Fees / Late Entries Rules apply. BEST PAIR CLASSES: See Class Schedule Best Pair of Kids: Both sexes represented. One fullblood/purebred doe and a fullblood buck kid that has shown in respective classes.

Group Classes: The following rules apply for group classes. The goats must be shown in their regular class and pre-entered by the Yearling division class of each division.

FULLBLOOD GET OF SIRE: Three fullblood or purebred offspring of the same buck with both sexes represented. Do not have to be owned by the same person.

PERCENTAGE GET OF SIRE: Three percentage does, any age that are out of the same buck (50%, 75%, & 87% are eligible) Do not have to be owned by the same person.

FULLBLOOD PRODUCE OF DAM: Two offspring of the same doe. Do not have to be owned by the same person.

PERCENTAGE PRODUCE OF DAM: Two offspring of the same doe. Do not have to be owned by the same person, and must be a 75% or better.

20

Premier Sire Award: The Premier Sire Award will be given to the sire that has accumulated the most class points (10 point system) earned by three or more exhibited offspring during the 2015 National. If there are 10 or more goats in the class, the first place goat will receive 10 points, second place 9 points, etc., through tenth. If there are less than 10 goats, the first place goat will receive points equal to the number in the class. Class totals will be determined from the total number of goats entered in a class from the official class sheets. The Premier Sire Award will be presented to the current owner of record according to ABGA.

FULLBLOOD BREEDER’S HERD: The exhibitor of the breeders herd must be breeder of record.

Goats owned by other exhibitors may be included provided the exhibitor of the breeders herd is the breeder of the included goat(s): 1.) Two fullblood or purebred does less than 12 months, 2.) Two fullblood or purebred does 12 months or greater, 3.) a buck of any age.

PERCENTAGE DOE HERD: The exhibitor of the breeders herd must be breeder of record. Goats owned by other exhibitors may be included provided the exhibitor of the breeders herd is the breeder of the included goat(s). 1.) Two percentage does less than 12 months, 2.) Two percentage does 12 months or greater.

Hotel and Grounds Information Mainstay Hotel : $95.00 / $105.99 3051 S. Locust Street Grand Island, NE 68801 (308) 382-9280

Best Western Hotels & Resorts 2707 S. Locust Street Grand Island, NE 68801 (308) 381-8855

Borders Inn & Suites 3333 Ramada Rd. Grand Island, NE 68801 (308) 384-5150

Roadway Inn 3205 S. Locust St. Grand Island, NE 68801 (308) 384-1333

Holiday Inn 2503 S. Locust Street Grand Island, NE 68801 (877) 859-5095

Camping / RV Parking at Fonner Park 700 S Stolley Park Rd Grand Island, NE 68802 308-382-4515

The Boer Goat - 15

The Cattle and Sheep Barns are on each side of 5 Points Arena where the Show Ring is located. They are both connected to the arena.

Pens are 6 ft by 6 ft CATTLE BARN Pen Layout.

19 20 17 18 15 16 13 14 11 12 9 10 7 5

8 6 4

1

2

Wash Racks

Wash Racks

SHEEP BARN Pen Layout.

O P M N K L I J G H E F C D A B

Vendor Area Wash Racks

16 - The Boer Goat

Wash Racks

2016 ABGA and JABGA National Show Entry Form Owner Name

Member Number

• Complete the form • Include payment (Check, Money Order or Credit Card) • Mail Application or fax to ABGA • Note Animal Health Requirements • B&O = Bred & Owned (JABGA Members Only) • Herdbook Deadline is May 6, 2016 • Entry Fees DOUBLED if not received in ABGA Office by the end of business day on May 6, 2016 (5:00 pm CST) • Substitution Fee is $25.00 • See 2016 ABGA National Show Rules for more information

Address City, State, Zip Contact Telephone

Alternate Telephone

Exhibitor Name

Entries #

Tattoos Right Left

Registration #

National Show Entries

National Show (Circle One)

B&O

Open Fees

Junior Fees

Totals

1

ABGA

JABGA

BOTH

$ 40.00 $ 30.00 $

2

ABGA

JABGA

BOTH

$ 40.00 $ 30.00 $

3

ABGA

JABGA

BOTH

$ 40.00 $ 30.00 $

4

ABGA

JABGA

BOTH

$ 40.00 $ 30.00 $

5

ABGA

JABGA

BOTH

$ 40.00 $ 30.00 $

6

ABGA

JABGA

BOTH

$ 40.00 $ 30.00 $

7

ABGA

JABGA

BOTH

$ 40.00 $ 30.00 $

8

ABGA

JABGA

BOTH

$ 40.00 $ 30.00 $

9

ABGA

JABGA

BOTH

$ 40.00 $ 30.00 $

10 List all members the exhibitor will be bring goats for:

ABGA

JABGA BOTH $ 40.00 $ 30.00 $ EXTRAS QTY Cost B & O (JABGA Only) X $20.00 e $

1

5

2

6

Pairs Classes

3

7

4

8

Shavings Membership Dinner

X $5.00

$

X $8.00 X $10.00 $ TOTAL $

SPECIAL PENNING REQUIREMENTS

Number of bucks 1 year and older: Number of Does with kids at side: Number of problem does:

______ ______ ______

SPECIAL PENNING REQUESTS

SPECIAL NEEDS

Pen next to another Exhibitor:___Yes ___No

Handicapped:___Yes ___No

Exhibitor's Name:______________________

Other:__________________

The National Show Committee will do its best to honor all requests for assigned pens, but please be aware that that mat not always be possible. Requests for separate pens for bucks over a year old and does with kids at their side will be given priority. If you are handicapped or have other special circumstances, please be sure to note that in the section above.

PAYMENT: _____Visa _____MC _____AmEx _____Disc

3 Digit Code (_____)

________________________________________

Card Number

_______ Exp. Date

_____Check (#_______) _____MO _____Cash

_______________________

Cardholder's Signature

___________________________________________________________________

________________________ Print Name on Card

Cardholder Address and Zip Code if different from above

Applicant hereby acknowledges and agrees that the American Boer Goat Association, its officers, directors, agents, employees and volunteers (hereafter collectively “ABGA”) shall not be responsible for any loss, injury or damage in connection with, arising out of, or incident to the National Show. Applicant further and hereby expressly waives all rights to claim against ABGA by reason of, and releases ABGA from any liability whatsoever with respect to any injury to person or damage to or loss of property (including consequential damages) resulting from any cause whatsoever (expressly including ABGA’s negligence). Applicant hereby agrees to hold harmless and unconditionally indemnify ABGA against and for all claims, liabilities, losses, costs, expenses, and damages (actual, consequential or punitive) which ABGA may at any time suffer or sustain or become liable for by reason of any accidents, damages, injuries or losses either to persons, property or both, of participant, of any other participant, of any other parties, or to the property of ABGA, in any matter arising from, connected with or incident to the activities hereunder, including but not limited to any negligent act or omission of ABGA, its officers, agents, employees, or volunteers.

The undersigned applicant further acknowledges the receipt of a copy of the National Show Rules and certifies that he/she has read and understands them. Applicant further agrees to abide by all of the Show Rules and acknowledges that the Executive Committee of ABGA reserves the final and absolute right (a) to interpret the Show Rules; and (b) to determine all matters, questions and differences in regard thereto and from which determination no appeal or cause of action shall be available.

X______________________

Signature

_________

Date

RETURN ENTRY FORM TO:

_________ ABGA#

X______________________

Signature (if owner is under 18 years of age)

_________

Date

_________ Relationship

American Boer Goat Association™ 1207 S. Bryant Blvd., Suite C, San Angelo, TX 76903 Emily Acevedo, •Starke, Florida Phone 325/486-2242 Fax 325/486-2637

The Boer Goat - 17

ABGA™ 1207 S. Bryant Blvd., Suite C, San Angelo, TX 76903| (325) 486-2242| Fax 325-486-2637 |www.ABGA.org marketing | education | genetics | commercial | youth | service 2016 ABGA AND JABGA NATIONAL SHOW Please complete the following Vendor Space /Sponsor Form

Name of Company

Product/Service

Address City, State, Zip Contact Telephone

Alternate Telephone

Fax

Contact Person

Email

Please mark one

VENDOR SPACE PROGRAMS PLATINUM VENDOR $1200__________ • Buckle Sponsorship (Announcer acknowledgement when buckle is presented) • Name/Logo Banner hung inside Five Points Show Arena • Sidebar Advertisement on ABGA website National Show page through November 30, 2016 • Name recognition in Show Program • 3 – 10’X10’ booth exhibition spaces GOLD VENDOR $1,000__________ • Name recognition in Show Program • Sidebar Advertisement on ABGA website National Show page through November 30, 2016 • 3 – 10’X10’ booth exhibition spaces SILVER VENDOR $800__________ • 3 – 10’X10’ booth exhibition spaces BRONZE VENDOR $600__________ • 2 – 10’X10’ booth exhibition spaces

SPONSOR PROGRAMS DIAMOND SPONSOR $10,000_______ • Prominent sponsor name/logo banner recognition at main entrance • Opening welcome presentation and remarks • Prominent sponsor name/logo banner inside show ring • Recognition of company sponsorship throughout show announcements • One grand champion bronze statue sponsorship (Announcer acknowledgment when statue is presented) • Two Buckle Sponsorships (Announcer acknowledgement when buckles are presented) • Name/Logo banner hung inside Five Points Show arena • Two page ad in Boer Goat Magazine • Large Banner Advertisement on ABGA website National Show page through November 30, 2016 • Name recognition in show program SAPPHIRE SPONSOR $2,500______ • Prominent sponsor name/logo banner inside show ring • Two Buckle Sponsorships (Announcer acknowledgement when buckles are presented) • Name/Logo banner hung inside Five Points Show Arena • One page ad in Boer Goat Magazine • Sidebar Advertisement on ABGA website National Show page through November 30, 2016 • Name recognition in show program

COPPER VENDOR $300__________ • 1 – 10’X10’ booth exhibition space

*All digital media and printed banners must be supplied by the vendor PAYMENT: ____Visa

____MC

____Am Ex

____Disc 3 digit code (_________)

_____________________________________________ Card Number

______________ Expiration Date

____Check (#__________)

____MO

____Cash

_____________________________________________________________ Cardholder’s Signature Print Name on Card

_______________________________________________________________________________ Cardholder Address and Zip Code if different from above

Applicant hereby acknowledges and agrees that the American Boer Goat Association, its officers, directors, agents, employees, and volunteers (hereafter collectively “ABGA”) shall not be responsible for any loss, injury, or damage in connection with, arising out of, or incident to the ABGA National Show. Applicant further and hereby expressly waives all rights to claims against the ABGA by reason of, and releases ABGA from any liability whatsoever with respect to, any injury to person or damage to or loss of property (including consequential damages) resulting from any cause whatsoever (expressly including ABGA’s negligence). Applicant hereby agrees to hold harmless and unconditionally indemnify ABGA against and for all claims, liabilities, losses, costs, expenses, and damages (actual or consequential, or punitive) which ABGA may at any time suffer or sustain or become liable for by reason of any accidents, damages, injuries or losses either to persons, property, or both, of participant, of any other participant, of any other parties, or to the property of ABGA, in any matter arising from, connected with or incident to the activities hereunder, including but not limited to any negligent act or omission of ABGA, it’s officers, agents, employees, or volunteers.

18 - The Boer Goat

We want to thank you, our customers, for your commitment, loyalty, and support.

We appreciate you purchasing semen and supplies, as well as using the services we offer.

Please contact us if you are interested in marketing your bucks as well. We have exposure in the domestic and international through our parent company Ag World International —

www.agworldinc.com

Let BIO-Genics Quality Semen Improve Your Herd Genetics!

208-756-6500 contactus@biogenicsltd.com www.biogenicsltd.com www.semenclearinghouse.com

we believe in the P O W E R of the NEXT GENERATION EMBRYO TRANSFER

M U LT I P LY

LAPAROSCOPIC ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION VIAGEN CLONING TECHNOLOGY

S U C C E S S S U C C E S S S U C C E S S

multiply success Small Ruminant Division Chillicothe, Missouri 800.372.3586 smallruminant@transova.com www.transova.com

®

What Boer Goats Tell Us...

by Dr. Fred Homeyer

Part 2

Since a goat does not have teeth in the upper jaw it is imperative that the teeth in the lower jaw match perfectly with the pad of the upper jaw. Since the primary diet of the Boer goat is leaves, twigs and weeds (they are browsers and eat primarily a meter and above the ground as opposed to grazers such as sheep and cattle that eat primarily a meter down to the ground) the teeth and pad must match in order for the animal to cut the weeds, leaves and twigs that consist of 80% or more of their diet in the pasture. Raising the goat in a pasture is desirable as the trace minerals in the browse help the goat get a more balanced and healthy diet. Too much separation between the teeth and upper jaw pad in either direction (underbite or overbite) produces an animal that cannot eat properly in the veldt or pasture.

The breed standards allow for a 1/4” separation between the teeth and the pad of the upper jaw with the lower jaw teeth extended out past the upper jaw (underbite or overshot jaw) when the animal is 24 months or older in the ABGA standard and a 6 mm separation when the goat is 36 month old in the South African standard. In both cases 5mm or 6 mm is about the diameter of a cigarette filter or a pencil eraser. Prior to 24 months or 36 months in each respective case the jaws must match perfectly. (I saw a young buck dismissed from the ring at the National Show in Sydney, Australia a couple of years ago that had less than 1/64” space in the teeth and jaw separation - the standard says the jaws must match and even 1/64” is a separation. It was a shame to see this buck dismissed as I felt he had the potential to be the champion if his jaw had not been misplaced.)

It is important that the body depth has balance. If the body depth is too shallow the chest becomes smaller and the flank becomes higher. If the body depth is too deep the neck will be too thick and the flank will be lower. Does with these characteristics are less fertile and poor breeders. When the body depth is cylindrical or too shallow the chest is weaker, the curve below the shoulder is too sharp and in many cases the goat has a serious devil’s grip. Also the legs are thinner, the back is slightly concave, the buttock is weaker and in some cases the muzzle is pointed which may result in parrot mouth or overbite in the jaw.

It has been observed by measuring many Boer goats that the ideal angle of the neck coming out of the topline is approximately 40 degrees. From 30 to 50 degrees seems to be normal.

When the neck comes out of the topline at too severe an angle this effects the skeleton by changing the angle of attachment of the scapula to the humerus that forms the point of the shoulder and the humerus to ulna attachment that creates the point

20 - The Boer Goat

comes higher, the hock straighter of the elbow. In many cases an extreme angle in the neck If the rump is too steep the doe will have and the front leg muscles disapeffects the point of the elbow birthing problems as the kids cannot exit the pear. When the goat is flat chested the neck is also thinner. A goat with the elbows bowed out birth canal successfully resulting in death of that is too heavy chested lacks like a bulldog in a configuration angularity. The chest will be lower called hyperextended scapula the kid and possibly death of the doe. and more prominent, the stomor extruded scapula. Goats with ach line will be straighter and the this malady may have difficulty neck considerably thicker. The doe is less fertile than a more walking around the pasture at 3 years of age or older and as angular animal. When the chest is too sharp and too shala result the hyperextended scapula should be considered as low the curve of the stomach line tends to go upwards, the a structural defect. Hyperextended scapula is also seen in chest is smaller, the neck is thinner and the front leg muscle some cases where the width of the chest floor is extremedisappears. ly wide in young animals. It should be noted that through When the neck of the doe is too fleshy and too masculine numerous observations and measurements the ideal angle at the point of the shoulder where the scapula connects with and there is too much dewlap around the throat, the doe is usually less fertile and will have weaker mothering characterthe humeruus is approximately 137 degrees. A greater angle istics than a more angular doe. than this will result in an animal where the skeleton in the If the legs of the doe are too think this indicates a tendenfront end assembly is too straight, the muscles are stretched cy toward masculinity and reproductive problems. Also this too severely and the front end cannot handle the continual shock to the body as the goat walks around the pasture over may result in lack of muscling on the front leg and a flat thigh on the hind legs. These characteristics are undesirable betime. Too great an angle in the front end assembly is similar cause they result in lower production of meat.” (Taken from to posted legs in the rear end where the back legs cannot the South African publication, “A Study of the SA Boer Goat” absorb the shock of walking over time and the goat breaks or “‘n Studie van die SA Boerbok” 2006.) down. The proper angle to the hock as observed through The requirement that the doe must have kidded or be visnumerous measurements seems to be approximately 160 ibly pregnant by 24 months is in the standard to ensure that degrees. A greater angle in the hock is exhibited by posted the goat is fertile and propagating the species. An animal legs where the angle of the hock approaches 180 degrees. that cannot reproduce is of little value other than the meat it The legs to body ratio in immature or young animals carries on its’ carcass. A doe with a well defined wedge that should be 50 - 50 and in mature animals the ratio should be reflects in the underline of the body being deeper in the rear 60% body to 40% legs. Goats that are too cylindrical in the than in the front is a sign of fertility and indicates a capacity body may be too high in the chest floor and the legs to body to carry kids. Another way of saying this is that the circumferratio may still be 50-50 at two to three years of age. ence at the flank of the doe should exceed the circumference The shape of the rump is important when considering the at the heart girth. reproductive ability of the doe. If the rump is too steep the The shape of the testicles (two equal size testicles in a doe will have birthing problems as the kids cannot exit the single sac of adequate circumference) with no more than a birth canal successfully resulting in death of the kid and possitwo inch split ensures that the reproductive organs of the bly death of the doe. A buck with a steep rump may put this steep rump on his doe kids resulting in birthing problems in the male will have proper structure and that the male should be highly fertile. Perhaps some day a correlation may be made herd in subsequent years. It should be remembered that the between the shape of the testicles and the shape of the udbuck is one-half of every kid in the herd while the doe is only ders on the doe kids the buck produces. (When I first wrote one-half of her kids. A steep rump seems to be highly inheritable. When the rump is sloping the tail is lower in the back, the this statement I was not familiar with research performed by some cattle breeders in this regard.) According the Mr. back is hollow and the buttocks are flatter. An animal with a Gerald Fry mentioned earlier in this article “the cow with the sloping rump often has either a hollow or flat head. perfectly shaped tight udder should produce the bull calf When the rump is too short the buttock becomes round with perfectly shaped “football” type of testicles that have like that of a pig, the hock straight like that of a chicken and no split and no twist at the points of the testes. This bull the back is too straight. (Taken from the South African pubwith ideally shaped testicles produces female calves with lication, “A Study of the SA Boer Goat” or “‘n Studie van die ideal udders. If the teats on the bull are on the neck of the SA Boerbok” 2006.) scrotum the shape of the udder of his female calves will have “When the buttock muscling is too short the flank be-

The Boer Goat - 21

The breed standard suggests a medium size goat. Goats teats facing forward on the udder and the cow will have very low milk production.� (Taken from a discussion found on the that grow to be too large are functionally ineffective as they may be unable to maintain themselves in a pasture setting. website: www.bovineengineering.com).

They are also prone to leg problems such as weak pasterns The shape of the udder on the Boer goat being tight near and may also develop a hollow swayed back. the body with a teat structure with no more than two funcA round barrel with well sprung ribs is necessary for a tional teats per side of the udder provides a situation where healthy goat to carry considerable meat and have capacity the newborn kids can effectively suck and survive. If a teat for rapid growth. A goat with a big foreleg will typically be is split the split must be at least 50% split for ABGA so that an animal that carries a lot of meat the baby can nurse. If the teat It is desirable to have Boer goats with a long and muscle. The circumference of is large with two orifices it may face from horn set to muzzle as this distance the foreleg is sometimes regardbe so large that the newborn ed as in indicator or predictor cannot get the teat in its mouth. is directly proportional to the distance from the hook to pin bones or the rump and also of mass and muscle as the goat If the udder is too pendulous directly proportional to the longisimus dorsi matures. A goat that is too broad and hangs near the ground a muscle that runs down the length of the back. in the shoulders may produce kids newborn kid will have difficulty that create difficult birthing. A getting its first drink. Until the goat that is too narrow in the back end will lack the desirable kid is several days old it will not be athletic enough to nurse on a large pendulous udder. The udder cannot have multiple amount of meat.

Having dark pigment on the hairless parts of the body, that nonfunctional teats that distract a new born and provide no is, around the eyes, nose, udder and under the tail insures a nutrition. One of the more dangerous teat configurations in goat that will not be prone to skin cancer. In the semi-arid desmy opinion is a long (about one to one and one half inches) ert climate of South Africa the sun can be very hot and without nonfunctional teat that is about eye level of the kid. The pigment the goat could readily get skin cancer. The climate in kid will latch onto this teat and suck until it is exhausted and Texas is particularly good for raising Boer goats as much of the eventually dies due to getting no milk. The South African terrain is similar to that found in South Africa. South Africa is Standard requires that the teats be totally separated with the same distance south of the equator as Texas is north of the no more than one non-functional teat located high, middle or low on a functional teat. The proper teat requirement con- equator and both of these areas of the world are places where tributes to survivability of offspring. (The South African Boer the clouds have given up most of their moisture and as a result have a semi-arid desert climate. It should be noted that Austragoat breeders must know the importance of testicle shape on the Boer buck as all of the South African judges that I have lia is approximately on the same latitude south of the equator as South Africa. That is why the Boer goat thrives in Australia observed will not tolerate any twist or split in the testicles. as well. Boer goats are highly adaptable as they can survive at They must know that irregularities in the testicles have a sea level in the desert and even at 12,000 feet in the mountains bearing on the udder of the doe kids produced by the buck.) and snow in Europe.

An old timer once told me that a buck with split testicles It is desirable to have Boer goats with a long face from would produce doe kids with pendulous, lopsided udders. He horn set to muzzle as this distance is directly proportional to just might be right as this has been empirically observed in the distance from the hook to pin bones or the rump and also my personal experience.

Strong, powerful legs that properly support the body under directly proportional to the longisimus dorsi muscle that runs down the length of the back. A goat with a long rump canall four corners are necessary in the Boer goat so that the not have a short body. A short rumped goat will have a pig animal can get around the pasture and eat. Legs that are cow like butt where the muscle only comes down a short distance hocked, bandy or crooked will not function properly over time on the back leg. This may not be desirable. and the goat will break down. Legs that are too straight in The loose pleated skin on the front of the South African the rear (posty legs) or too much angle (sycle hock) will create Boer goat provides a larger skin surface to cool the body in a animals that break down in the pasture over time. Structural radiator type fashion. The newer style American Boer goat correctness set forth in the standards produces a goat that is mobile and adaptable to various range conditions. The pastern with very tight skin on the front many not cool the body as efficiently and it remains to be seen if this deviation from the is the area between the dew claw and the hoof of the animal.

South African standard produces the desired effects that Pasterns that are too straight or too slanted indicates that the were anticipated by this change. It has also been shown that animal will eventually break down and not be able to move males that are very tall with long legs and long necks usually around effectively.

22 - The Boer Goat

lack masculinity and may not produce adequate quantities of viable sperm to effectively breed a herd of females. Proper glandular function is necessary to produce males with enough masculinity (testosterone) to be herd sires. According to Bonsma proper glandular function begins in the developing embryo. One indication of masculinity in the buck is when the circumference at the heart girth exceeds the topline length by at least 50%. Bucks should be bigger in the front end as they must fight and compete for the does and does should be bigger in the rear end as they need capacity to hold developing kids.

A wide chest floor and a long canon bone may be good predictors of growth capacity. Care should be taken not to have too much width in the chest floor as scapula problems and front end assembly problems can arise where the shoulders do not tie in correctly with the body creating a bull dog like appearance. This is sometimes called extruded scapula or hyperextended scapula.

Structural weakness eventually produces an animal that breaks down under pasture conditions.

Good skeletal dimension with a large skull is desirable in order to produce a skeleton that supports lots of meat and muscle. A large amount of muscle or meat is what makes the Boer goat desirable in the first place.

The standard that requires bucks to be masculine and does to be feminine provides for animals that fulfil their part of the procreation process and have the necessary glandular function to do so. Bucks that are too feminine may tend to produce ultra-fragile does with very light bone that may not have survivability in a pasture environment. Does that are too masculine, that is, too short in the neck, flat in the face or too deep in the body may be hard to breed and will probably lack good mothering skills. The long graceful neck and feminine head of the Boer doe would indicate that she can be readily bred and will be able to mother and raise multiple kids. A doe that produces and raises multiple kids per breeding is ultimately a greater red meat producer than a doe that raises only a single kid per breeding.

In South Africa when the goats are gathered up from the mountains perhaps twice

a year; if the doe is not trailing twin kids by her side she is sold for meat. Good maternal traits with multiple kid production annually is a very desirable property. In South Africa it is all about efficient meat production and commercial viability of the animal. Eventually this will be the case in the United States as well.

So there you have a discussion of why certain desirable physical traits are necessary in the South African Boer goat in order to insure a goat that has survivability, adaptability, fertility, a calm disposition, good mothering ability and can make a living under harsh conditions with low quality food.

When raised according to the South African Standards the Boer goat truly is an efficient meat production system in the pasture that is the meat goat of the world.

The Boer Goat - 23

L

BREEDER’S Spotlight

ocated in eastern Lancaster County, PA, Dr. and Mrs. Robert Herr have been in the sheep business for more than fifty years, raising and showing Polled Dorsets under their Nix Besser Farm name. They later combined meat goats into their operation in 1987. This led them to their purchase of fullblood Boer goats and they’ve enjoyed it ever since.

How did you get started in the industry?

We approached raising Boer goats and got our start in goats from the standpoint of meat and marketing and not with the emphasis and influence of the show ring. For years, we focused mostly on purebred sheep, but in 1987 looking to retire from education, we began looking into goats and being order buyer for sheep and goats for the ethnic market fit in with our location. We were five miles from the New Holland and only 15 miles from the Lancaster Stockyards.

I began to explore the possibility of a meat goat type feedlot buying small goats, feeding them for six months and selling them on the ethnic holiday market. We developed a feedlot with 300-400 goats, feeding them for terminal slaughter trade.

Boer goat influence was just starting to appear at markets and prices for purebred stock were high. The buyers in the market place did not see this meatier goat as very useful. It was “too fat.” I was impressed with the muscle and bone in the Boer. I took part in a marketing conference in Virginia featuring Boer goats and I was hooked. We bought our first fullblood does that next year.

What does your operation look like?

When you reach the age of 80, you start to think of retirement and cutting back on the daily chores but you realize that it is important to keep busy and look forward to getting up

24 - The Boer Goat

each morning doing something that you love. We started our Boer goat herd by selecting 7 fullblood does about six months of age. We raised them and using the best buck we could afford; we started our Boer breeding program developing a closed herd from those original does and changing the buck to improve the quality of our kids.

Production and correctness have always been our goal. We average 2.6 kids per doe once a year and sell kids at 90+ days.

This past group of kids were sold into 7 states and we have the demand to market 100 kids each year if they were available and our prices range from $600 to $1,000 per head.

Two years ago we sold our farm and downsized our herd of 35 purebred does. At that time we moved to an adjacent 3 acre lot, building a home and a small barn. We chose 14 of our best does and moved them to the new farm. We’ve spent these last two years adjusting to this limited space, adding gates and fences, making creep areas, and reconfiguring the barn and buildings to meet the needs of the herd. We have been through two kidding periods in our new facilities and things have settled in well. Our focus is on producing a quality animal to offer the breeder, the meat goat producer, but one that can compete in the show ring and the PA Meat Evaluation Center.

What do you enjoy about the industry?

We have enjoyed the people we have met. It has been particularly rewarding to see the growth of interest in the junior shows. When we first started judging market shows at

the county fairs there were 5-10 animals. The same shows now feature 50100 market goats and many of them now have significant junior breed shows. Some of our efforts have been getting bucks included at the Meat Animal Testing Laboratory at Penn State each year, getting Junior and Open Boer Goat shows at the PA State Farm Show and the Keystone International Livestock Show.

Who was an inspiration to you?

The first is the “Goatman”, Frank Pinkerton of Texas, and the second is a livestock dealer in Maysville, KY, George Jones., who we bought our purebred goats by way of Texas from the herd of Powell-Homan. There were many people along the way that provided inspiration, information and good practical advice when we needed it. The Keystone Meat Goat Producers Association, our state group has been very supportive and has provided good information along the way. That is the beauty of dealing with Boer goat breeders, they are almost always anxious to help out their fellow breeders.

What has been your biggest challenge?

There are always health challenges that breeders face—parasites, birthing problems, keeping new kids healthy, coccidiosis,

etc. Probably one of our greatest challenges is choosing our buck. It’s half the herd, more expensive than my does, and critical to my breeding program. If he works with my does, great. If I’m not really satisfied with my offspring I have to find the courage to get rid of him. The other half of the challenge is marketing old spent does. If they have served us well it is not easy to haul them off to market.

There is also the concern in finding the balance between meat production and show quality animals. We are convinced that we can have the best of both worlds. There is often a fine line between what can compete in the show ring and what can produce in the feedlot and some segments of the producers do not give enough consideration to this.

What are you most excited about?

US producers provide less than 50% of the goat meat demand; the rest is being imported. Research is going on to make production more efficient and more profitable. Carcass evaluation, efficient weight gain and feed conversion are all under study to improve the quality of goat grown for the marketplace. One of the fastest growing segment of youth projects is market goats and followed by Junior Boer Breeding shows. We hope our goats and their progeny will be part of that challenge.

We’re here for what’s next.

800-237-7193 ext. 10 - sheepandgoatfund.com

The NLPA Sheep and Goat Fund assists the U.S. sheep and goat industries by financing projects that strengthen and enhance the production and marketing of sheep and goats and their products. It is a valuable tool to expand your operation and take it beyond the farm gate. Learn how you can benefit from the fund at sheepandgoatfund.com.

Invest in equipment and business development Facilitate flock/herd expansion

The Boer Goat - 25 quality Improve marketing and product

Managing Minerals

by Karla Blackstock

The relationship between Calcium and Phosphorus is no secret. If you raised goats, you know that the balance between these two minerals is critical to preventing urinary calculi. But, there is a lot more to these two minerals than preventing Urinary Calculi Calcium and Phosphorus are found together; however, they have the opposite effect on the body. As with most vitamins and minerals, they interact with one another.

In the case of Calcium and Phosphorus, excessive Calcium in the body is the same as being deficient in Phosphorus. And, both of these interact with Copper and Vitamin D. Most Calcium and Phosphorus is stored in the skeleton (bones) of all animals, including goats. Both minerals are vital to the enzymatic processes, cell transport, blood clotting. The majority (99%) of calcium is used to support the skeletal structure, but calcium is also necessary for muscle contraction and nerve condition.

Approximately 80 percent of the body’s phosphorus is found in the skeleton. The remainder is found in the blood and tissues, which aids Calcium with its functions.

Phosphorus is known as the energy mineral because it aids in controlling the metabolism.

Calcium Deficiency

A goat that is deficient in Calcium will exhibit soft bones and will result in lameness. This condition is known as rickets.

Vitamin D deficiency can cause similar symptoms because of the vitamin’s role in absorbing and metabolizing Calcium.

A lactating doe with a calcium deficiency may also

Calcium in Counties of the Conterminous States

26 - The Boer Goat

:

get milk fever, which is a metabolic disorder that is caused by the body using up Calcium to produce milk. Goats draw from the Calcium in their bones in times of need, where there is a normal positive balance from which to draw. Calcium deficiencies are not common in healthy, foraging goats.

Phosphorus Deficiency / Abundance

A Phosphorus deficiency is more likely than a Calcium deficiency, but it is less detrimental to the goat. This deficiency will cause goats to be less thrifty with lower milk yields.

They may also be lethargic as both Calcium and Phosphorus control the metabolic rate through the thyroid glands. A Phosphorus deficient goat may appear listless, unkempt and have a decreased fertility rate. A diet heavy in Phosphorus will likely result in male goats developing Urinary Calculi.

Sources of Calcium and Phosphorus

A balanced ration or a forage diet with mineral supplementation keeps goats in a healthy balance. Sources of phosphorus include protein supplements, cereal byproducts and mineral supplements. Calcium is found in limestone, mineral supplements and forages. Alfalfa hay is a high source of calcium.

Testing hay sources or performing soil tests is a good way to determine how much Calcium and Phosphorus are in forages.

Both minerals are found in natural environments in adequate supplies. However, if goats are fed highly concentrated feed rations, the Ca:P ratio should be closely examined. It is critical to examine the nutrient values of all supplements. A strict 2:1 or 2.5:1 ratio is recommended for bucks and wethers.

Phosphorus in Counties of the Conterminous States

The Boer Goat - 27

Meet ABGA Certified Judge: Jesse Cornelius “A good goat is a good goat,” said ABGA

Certified Judge Jesse Cornelius. “As a judge, I don’t judge a wether dam or a fullblood. I look for the best in the class no matter how you want to use her and that comes down to structure and being sound and productive.”

Structure and power are a couple of the most important things Cornelius looks for when commanding the ring.

“I like to watch a goat walk because structure is vital,” Cornelius said. “If a goat isn’t structurally sound, it just doesn’t make my cut.”

After that, and once the goats meet the breed standards, then you are really looking for the ones that have the most to offer the industry, he said. That, realistically, is the judge’s personal opinion.

“Of course, if every judge had the same opinion it would be very boring wouldn’t it?” Cornelius said.

Judging for the breed standards, he said, is critical. The standards are in place for a reason and we have to be mindful of them. For example, he said, South Africans will tell you that the depth of the lower jaw gives you a good indication of the amount of bone throughout the body.

It’s these details and attention to the standards that make a judge successful.

Cornelius admitted that there is a lot to learn as a judge.

Part of his knowledge comes from working the ring at the National ABGA Show and attending it each year since 1999.

“I’ve only missed one year since 1999. That was the year I was in Iraq,” he said. “I had the opportunity to work the ring with Norman Kohl at Nationals one year, and I learned more about goats that year than ever. You can watch and listen to him and learn how to analyze a goat.”

Cornelius said analyzing goats is something he takes very seriously. There are a lot of bucks in our industry with muscle and power, but in his opinion many are too feminine in their

28 - The Boer Goat

head or other traits.

“A buck is supposed to look like a buck,” he said. “We’ve made our does so pretty, but many of those cannot make a rugged stud buck. So, unfortunately those does may not make a good show animal. But, we do need them in the pasture to produce strong, powerful bucks.”

On the flip side, he said, “A doe does need to be somewhat feminine, but if I can find a big, powerful doe, I’m going to use her.”

It is that power and structure that Cornelius goes back to in the ring because he believes those animals should feed the commercial industry. Winning shows should take good genetics, he said, and it takes good goats no matter how you use them in your program.

When you sit down with Cornelius, you quickly realize that he has a passion for teaching and judging. Growing up on a farm and judging in high school and on the collegiate level gave him the background he needs to confidently walk in the ring time after time to select goats that he believes will advance the Boer goat industry.

Cornelius grew up with goats on a small farm in Mississippi and continues to teach youth about goats, as well as other agricultural products, through his job as an agricultural science teacher at Nettleton, MS. He also passes along his knowledge to his 3 boys. Cornelius, his wife and boys run an operation of Boer cross and percentage goats.

In addition to serving his community as an ag teacher, Cornelius served his country for 21.5 years in the National Guard. He was deployed to Iraq for 19 months on active duty from 2004 to 2006.

Stationed in an agricultural community during the

rebuilding phase, Cornelius once again put his leadership and teaching skills to good use. He commanded 300 soldiers and helped strengthen the agricultural community.

From guiding and advising Iraqi nationals to helping trim hooves, Cornelius was ready to do what was needed and even admitted, “It was a lot of fun – when they weren’t shooting at us!”

Back on the home front, Cornelius has continued to advance the agriculture community and the Boer goat industry.

“As a judge, you have the opportunity to educate people. But, you have to follow the breed standards. If you let a folded ear go by, you aren’t teaching anyone anything,” he said. “Judges are supposed to be leaders and build the industry.”

And it is that passion for education that comes through in every show he judges.

“I never dreamed that I would judge at a place like Ft. Worth. I’ve been blessed to meet a lot of people and teach something along the way,” he said. “I make a point to make the last guy that walks out of the ring feel valued because they do have something to offer this industry. And, it is just a blast to go and evaluate goats.”

JUDGES’ CORNER

It’s the dawn There will be a place card test show on April 23-24 at the Missouri State Fairgrounds in Sedalia, MO. There will

better

of a Show Goat feed.

be three ABGA sanctioned shows. For

Goat Sale Prep

additional information, contact Tracy

(No. 81072) — 18% protein, 5% fat, 15% fiber, 27-33 ppm copper

Diefenbach at tldief@gmail.com

AminoGain Goat ®

(No. 81667) — 16% protein, 4% fat, 19% fiber, 25-35 ppm copper

The National Show will be held from June 4-11 in Grand Island, NE. The First Annual Judges continuing education

Elite Goat

(No. 80941) — 17% protein, 3.5% fat, 13% fiber, 20-40 ppm copper

program will be conducted during the ABGA Nationals. All Certified Judges are required to attend one continuing education program before 2020.

866-666-7626 www.admani.com/MoorMansShowTec

The Boer Goat - 29

Urinary Calculi

by Karla Blackstock

Urinary Calculi is a condition in goats where crystals or “stones� form in the urinary tract, prohibiting males from urinating. While does can develop urinary calculi, their urethra is shorter and larger, which allows them to pass the crystals.

Males, especially castrated males, have a more difficult time passing these granules through the urethra.

Management is key to the prevention and resolution of urinary calculi, and it begins at an early age. Castration may be delayed until the young buckling is at least 90 days of age. Castration stops testosterone production, as well as the growth of the urethra. When not given an adequate opportunity to grow to its normal diameter, the urethra can be more easily blocked.

Diet and nutrition management are key to preventing urinary calculi as it is almost always the result of a nutritional imbalance. Too much phosphorus is the main culprit in urinary calculi. The proper Ca:P ratio (2:1) is critical on wethers that are fed a concentrated diet. As a preventative, ammonium chloride can be mixed into a daily feed ration at .5% to 1.5%. Some prepared goat and sheep rations contain ammonium chloride in the formulation, but this is no guarantee that Urinary Calculi will be avoided. Be sure to read feed labels.

Diets should also include some roughage, and a fresh water source should be available at all times. Loose salts and minerals can increase water intake. Most importantly, offer lots of free-choice forage and good-quality grass hay and reduce the amount of concentrates being fed. If urinary calculi is a herd problem and the nutritional balance is correct, test the water and hay for mineral content.

30 - The Boer Goat

Symptoms

Goats with urinary calculi will stretch out to urinate and produce very little or no urination. Symptoms include frequent, non-productive urination, abdominal discomfort (stretching, kicking or looking at their side), rapid tail switching or anxiety, lack of appetite, appearance of being constipated, blood in urine, crystals around the sheath, bloated abdomen and eventually death.

Medical Attention

Urinary calculi does require immediate attention. First, do not force the animal to drink water. This will only increase the amount of fluid in the bladder, increasing the chances that the bladder will burst. A burst bladder is not correctable; it is fatal.

Oral treatments can be an option if detected early. Oral treatments are designed to dissolve the stones using an acidic-based drench. Ammonium chloride can be administered at the rate of 1 tsp per 75 lbs of bodyweight every 12 hours until normal urination. Ammonium chloride will burn the throat; tubing, not drenching is preferred. Acid packs can also be purchased and home remedies can be effective if the solution is acidic.

A good relationship with a nearby veterinarian is recommended. Surgical options should be performed by those with experience. Consult your veterinarian for surgical options.

Illustration: www.bendingtreeranch.com

the urethral process, use a sharp pair of However, if oral treatments are not scissors or a scalpel, taking care not to effective or if immediate correction is damage the penis itself. After this prorequired, the urethral process (pizzle) cess, urine will flow freely if the blockage is can be exposed and examined. found to be in the urethral process.

First, examine the urethral process If this surgical procedure does not profor signs of blockages or discoloration. vide immediate relief, a veterinarian can The urethral process is the 1-2 cm insert a catheter into the shaft attempting extension of the urethra from the distal to use a solution to push the stones back aspect of the penis. The urethral prointo the bladder. Even this is sometimes cess sprays semen inside the cervix of ineffective. Remember, that once this is the doe; however, bucks can done, the stones are still in the urinary successfully breed without it. tract and will need to be dissolved or surgiTo examine the urethral process, sit cally removed. the goat on its hindquarters. Extend Urinary calculi in goats takes time to the shaft by working it out (beginning Photo courtesy: www.bendingtreeranch.com resolve. Even if the urethral process was at the sigmoid flexure) and grasping it snipped and urine flowed freely, many goats will have more with tissue forceps once you have it exposed. The health of crystals within their urinary tract and will require an acidic the urethral process can be determined during this procedrench to dissolve any remaining stones. dure. A dark purple or black urethral process indicates that Proper preventative measures should be taken to the blockage is severe and in later stages. Swelling and/or a reduce the necessity of oral or surgical treatments. Howevhardened urethral process may also be evident. er, if urinary calculi should develop in your buck or wether, If the blockage is shown to be in the urethral process, calling the veterinarian is always the best option. then the urethral process can be snipped off. To snip off

The Boer Goat - 31

32 - The Boer Goat

The Boer Goat - 33

in the Boer Goat Industry Congratulations to the breeders and owners of the animals listed below. The following animals have received the awards of Ennoblement, Doe of Excellence and Sire of Merit.

ENNOBLEMENTS NAME

Reg. #

DOB

OWNER

Bucks ERWIN BETTER BRING YOUR GAME

10599804

4/03/2013

Maurice & Kim Erwin

BROKEN S I’M TWICE SMOKIN

10609754

3/16/2013

Minda Witt

HARMONY HILL CASH THE CHECK

10601450

8/02/2013

Jennifer Keys

DHTBG GO BIG RED

10597984

2/12/2012

Kathie and Katie Diemer

AABG NBD STARDOM

10555214

5/6/2011

Carlie Callahan

PLAY WHITE LIGHTNING FLASH

10628993

12/6/2012

Kaden Merriman

GWN MEZMORIZED

10568126

3/18/2012

Ella Goodwin

Does EGGS W707

10405840

2/14/2007

URBG FIREBALL’S RED HOT MESS

10605500

1/2/2013

PPW 6B82

10403634

2/23/2006

Robert & Phillis Little

BAB4 IN YOUR DREAMS

10597552

12/15/2012

Bailey Berghem

BA CSF CAT’S MEOW

10504907

1/2/2010

Ella Goodwin

MULBERRY MEADOWS KSMM KATRINA

10439551

1/2/2008

Carol Bachofer

Reg. #

DOB

10566352 10553601 10517363

2/10/2012 6/05/2011 2/25/2010

Iris Lerena, Samuel Lerena, Deanna Lerena

Parker Myers

DOE OF EXCELLENCE NAME LOVE’NM ABBA-ZABBA S3S CUTE AS A BUG JORD QUEENIE

OWNER Melissa & Neil Love Robin L Walters John Kroeker

Classifieds ARKANSAS

ARKANSAS

ARKANSAS

COLORADO

IOWA

IOWA

MARYLAND

MARYLAND

MINNESOTA

MISSOURI

MISSOURI

TENNESSEE

TEXAS

TEXAS

TEXAS

TEXAS

TEXAS

Heather Gleason 443-974-7606 mintvalleyfarmmd@gmail.com Specializing in color and quality.

Check us out under our Facebook page: MVF Boer Goats.

Advertise your business in the classifieds! Only $150/year for a black and white ad or $300 for a color ad. Book yours today!

Contact: editor@abga.org

Erica McWhirt

Photo Contest ruff

Jamie Wood

Shari Pape

Jamie

Ashley J

enkins

n

Gettma

Peyton Blackstock

Tonya Borkholder - Leap of Faith Bree Barnickol

Eric Rude

Johnny Hubbard

John Woodruff

36 - The Boer Goat

Kelly Griff i n Roy Binkley

Book Your Ad Today!

Advertise in The Boer Goat Reach 6,000 readers each issue!

Ad Rates

Issue Themes

January/February Health Issue Nutrition Section

July/August National Show Issue Annual Report

March/April Doe Issue Wether Section National Show Rules

September/October Junior Issue Meat Industry Section Management Section

May/June Buck Issue Reproduction Section

November/December Kid Issue Equipment Section

Size

Type

1x

3x

6x

Back Cover

Color

$1,300

N/A

N/A

Inside Back Cover/ Inside Front Cover

Color

$1,000

N/A

N/A

Center Spread

Color

$1,300

$1,250

$1,200

Two-Page Spread

Color

$1,000

$950

$900

Full Page

Color

$800

$775

$750

Two Thirds

Color

$575

$550

$525

Half Page

Color

$475

$450

$425

Third Page

Color

$300

$300

$275

Specifications

Quarter Page

Color

$250

$250

$225

Digital Print-Read Ads • Print-ready means the ad is complete and needs no alteration.

• Print-ready ads should be submitted in electronic format via email as press-optimized, highresolution PDFs with all fonts and graphics embedded.

• High resolution jpg, tiff, or eps files also accepted.

Word, PowerPoint, Publisher or any other format will not be accepted.

Business Card

Color

N/A

N/A

$300

Business Card

B/W

N/A

N/A

$150

Terms • Ads must be paid for in full before they will be printed. New ads will not be accepted from delinquent advertisers.

Cancellations • Ad space reserved but canceled or not filled will be billed at the full rate.

Mailing • Magazine mails to arrive at the end of the first month listed for the issue.

Ad Sales Karla Blackstock editor@abga.org

Ad Sizes Size

Live

Trim

Bleed

7.625 x 8

8.375 x 8.625

8.625 x 8.75

Full Page

7.625 x 9.75

8.375 x 10.75

8.625 x 11

Two Thirds

7.625 x 6.5

8.375 x 7

8.625 x 7.125

Half Page

7.625 x 4.9

8.375 x 5.5

8.625 x 5.625

Third Page

5x5

N/A

N/A

Quarter Page

3.75 x 4.9

N/A

N/A

Business Card

2.25 x 1.25

N/A

N/A

Back Cover

Deadlines Issue

Ads Booked

Content Received

January/February

Dec 1

Dec 10

March/April

Feb 1

Feb 10

May/June

April 1

April 10

July/August

June 1

June 10

September/October

Aug 1

Aug 10

November/December

Sept 1

Sept 10

1207 S. Bryant Blvd, Suite C San Angelo, TX 76903

producing

CHAMPIONS

CHAMPIONS