Strengthening the Herdbook
by Myles Immerkar
Amendment
Understanding the New AI and Donor Dam Policy
The Canadian Angus breed has long been recognized for its commitment to genetic integrity, breed purity, and progressive leadership in the global beef industry. In January 2026, the Canadian Angus Association (CAA) Board approved an important amendment to the Artificial Insemination (AI) and Donor Dam policy that reflects the evolving realities of our evolving industry This policy change introduces requirements for genetic condition (GC) testing and high-density (HD) DNA marker testing for certain animals entering the herdbook through AI and embryo transfer programs
While the amendment may appear technical at first glance, it represents a proactive step toward maintaining the strength and credibility of the Canadian Angus herdbook while aligning with international standards.
Why the Policy Needed to Change
importance on ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the herdbook.
In recent years, the CAA has seen a significant rise in the percentage of registered calves originating from donor dams. These influential females are producing larger numbers of embryos, which in turn means their genetic impact on the population is expanding rapidly As their influence grows, ensuring that the genetics entering the herdbook are thoroughly verified becomes increasingly important
Aligning with International Standards
Another key driver behind the policy amendment is the evolving landscape of international genetics trade. Canadian Angus cattle and genetics are exported around the world, and many importing countries have increasingly stringent requirements surrounding genetic testing and verification.
Over the past decade, advancements in reproductive technologies such as AI and embryo transfer have dramatically accelerated genetic progress within the beef industry Elite animals can now produce a significantly larger number of offspring than ever before. While this progress brings tremendous opportunities, it also places greater
At the same time, the semen marketplace has also shifted. Historically, widely marketed AI sires dominated registrations across the breed However, more recently there has been a strong movement toward privately marketed bulls In 2025 registration data, more than 50 percent of the top sires by registration numbers were privately marketed bulls a notable change from previous years when publicly available sires were far more prominent
Over the past several years, the CAA has encountered situations where embryo progeny were unable to qualify for registration or sale in certain markets because required testing had not been completed These situations can create significant frustration and financial setbacks for producers.
By updating the AI and Donor Dam policy to include mandatory GC testing and HD marker testing, the association is helping ensure that Canadian genetics meet international expectations from the outset This proactive approach reduces the risk of complications later in the Official Publication of the Saskatchewan Angus Association
continued on Page 8
Saskatchewan Angus Association - 2026 Board of Directors
President
Jordan Sies
Grayson, Saskatchewan 306 728 1299 sieser94@hotmail com
1st Vice-President
Brennan Schachtel Marshall, Saskatchewan 306 821 2504 eyehill@gmail com
2nd Vice-President
Randy Tetzlaff Viscount, Saskatchewan 306 231 6969 tetz@sasktel net
Executive Director
Troy Frick
Neudorf, Saskatchewan 306 728 8911 northernviewangus@gmail com
Past President
Chad Hollinger
Neudorf, Saskatchewan 396.331.0302 hollingerlandandcattle@gmail com
Jeffery Bloom
Turtleford, Saskatchewan 306 307 5234 jeffandkhiya@hotmail com
Adrian Jungman
Duck Lake, Saskatchewan 306.221.6864 akjungman@gmail com
Kim McLean
Regina, Saskatchewan 306.230.1681 kim.mclean@sasktel.net
Marlene Monvoisin
Gravelbourg, Saskatchewan 306 648 8200 jpmfarms@sasktel net
Wade Olynyk
Goodeve, Saskatchewan 306 730 7673 olynyk44@gmail com
Nikki Weiss
Maple Creek, Saskatchewan 306.661.7208 weissangus@gmail com
Jim Wright
Meadow Lake, Saskatchewan 306.304.7711 wrightranch@sasktel.net
Published by: Saskatchewan Angus Association
P O Box 177, Stavely, Alberta
T0L 1Z0
Phone: 306 537 1518
office@saskatchewanangus com cdnangus.ca/saskatchewan-angus-association
Summer 2026
Distributed to approximately 750 Angus Breeders & 1,800+ Commercial Producers in Saskatchewan
3 Issues per Year
Summer Deadline - May 1
Fall Deadline - October 1
Spring Deadline - January 15
Junior Director
Ashton Jungman
Duck Lake, Saskatchewan 306 222 9319 ashman m16@icloud com
Canadian Director
Roger Reynolds
Emerald Park, Saskatchewan 306 536 6112 erreynolds@accesscomm ca
Canadian Director
Rob Garner
Simpson, Saskatchewan 306 946 7946 nordallimousin@sasktel net
Canadian Director
Darren Ippolito
Kisbey, Saskatchewan 306 577 8970 moose creek@sasktel net
Honourary President
Dan Howell Lumsden, Saskatchewan
Belinda Wagner, General Manager
Cell: 306.537.1518 office@saskatchewanangus com
Michelle Potapinski Cell: 306 677 7540
T0L 1Z0 office@saskatchewanangus com
President’s Report . . .
Spring seems to finally be here after some very chaotic weather systems covered the province I hope everyone was able to overcome the challenges and can look forward to green grass
The bull sale season has wrapped up and what a year It is great to see these excellent prices throughout the livestock industry. Congratulations to the breeders and buyers The Saskatchewan Angus Association is continuing with three $1000 awards to commercial cattlemen that purchased bulls and that were transferred to the new owner. Please transfer your bulls so that your customers have a chance in this draw.
This year the National Convention will be taking place in Kamloops, British Columbia on June 25th and 26th. Our board will have two members attend as well as our three Canadian Directors If anybody has questions or would like more information about Convention, please feel free to ask myself, the Canadian directors or the office.
Plans are well underway for the very popular Saskatchewan Angus Tour. This year it will feature stops in the Moose Jaw area The tour will take place at the end of July and will showcase many progressive Angus breeders This is a must attend event, and I look forward to seeing you there
Gord Roger, our Saskatchewan Angus Ambassador has been busy since the new year attending events across the province. He attends our sponsored events, shows and helps with breeder recognition presentations. If you see him promoting Angus at these events, be sure to stop and say hello
The Board and the membership have seen a very positive response hosting our Annual General Meeting in conjunction with the Masterpiece Sale in October. We are continuing with this format in 2026 and hope to see you there – Friday, October 16th is the date to put on your calendar.
The Angus All Star sale will take place during Canadian Western Agribition again in 2026 and we are excited to be planning for the National Angus Gold Show at Agribition as well – watch for details on some special activities coming soon.
The Gold Show will be back at the Stockade Round-up in Lloydminster for 2026 and the Saskatchewan Junior Association will host their show in Lloydminster as well. Dates are October 28th-31st
Our board held a meeting in Moose Jaw at the end of April, followed by a Breeders Session The Breeders Session was very informative!! Jackie Sawley did a presentation on the current TB investigation and shared her families personal experience too. Cynthia Beck then spoke about getting through tough times and mental health issues. The participation and questions made for an excellent afternoon
It is a great time to be a part of the Angus breed and the cattle business I encourage everyone to try to take the time to attend the upcoming Angus events Have a safe breeding, seeding and summer pasture turnout season
Saskatchewan Angus Purebred Breeder of the Year
- Number of years the breeder has been actively registering cattle with CAA.
- Current number of active registered females the breeder has with the CAA.
- Commercial Involvement - Sponsor/Advertise at commercial events, judge commercial events, attend as commercial events as a contributor, actively marketing commercial Angus cattle with a sale, show etc
- Volunteerism - 4-H leader, Junior programs, planning of SAA events i e summer tour, Gold Show, Agribition show, etc
Youth Involvement-Leadership training opportunities for youth, intern programs, mentor program involvement, etc
- Promotion and Marketing of the Angus Breed - Sales - bull sale, production sale, consignment sale, Attend shows as an exhibitor, Media presence - Facebook page, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, radio, print, email, signage, etc.
- Involvement in boards, organizations - Canadian/Saskatchewan Cattle Association’s, Canadian/Saskatchewan Angus Association’s, Agribition, R M , local fair boards, etc
- Environmentally sound practices - Soil conservation practices, seeding cover crops for forages, responsible grazing practices, member of the VBP, sustainable beef, etc.
Deadline for in-person nominations is during the Annual General Meeting to be held Friday, October 16th, 2026
Nominations may be submitted via email to office@saskatchewanangus com by Monday, October 12th.
Please use Breeder of the Year for the subject line.
Nominations will be reviewed and voted on by the membership at the Annual General Meeting.
Winners receive a Gate Sign at an event of their choice and are featured in the Fall ‘Angus Edge’.
a. Have sound representation of purebred Angus cattle in their herd
b. Promote Angus cattle to the best of their ability
c. Produce sound, quality cattle that are demanded in the market
d. Contribute to the provincial association through attendance, volunteering, etc of planned events
Breeders who are to be considered for Purebred Breeder of the Year
Strengthening the Herdbook
process and helps maintain Canada’s reputation as a trusted source of highquality Angus genetics.
Lessons from Imported Genetics
The need for proactive policy improvements became particularly clear during 2025. During that year, the CAA spent considerable time working with producers who had imported genetics that did not meet Canadian policy standards at the time of import. In many cases, the animals were missing genetic condition testing or lacked sufficient DNA markers to confidently verify parentage.
Attempting to source DNA samples after animals have been sold, exported, or deceased can be extremely challenging Producers often face delays, additional costs, and uncertainty while trying to meet registration or marketing requirements
These experiences highlighted how critical it is to ensure proper testing is completed before genetics enter the system By strengthening policy requirements now, the CAA is helping prevent similar challenges for members in the future.
The Importance of HD DNA Testing
One of the most significant elements of the amendment is the inclusion of highdensity (HD) DNA testing requirements. HD testing dramatically increases the number of genetic markers that the association has on file for an animal. Having a larger set of markers provides several important benefits:
● Improved accuracy in pedigree verification
● Enhanced ability to resolve parentage questions
● Stronger tools for troubleshooting genetic issues
● Greater readiness for future testing requirements
As genomic technologies continue to evolve, new testing standards may emerge that require additional markers.
By ensuring HD data is already available, the association is better positioned to meet those future requirements without requiring additional testing later
This forward-thinking approach helps protect both producers and buyers by ensuring animals remain eligible for future marketing opportunities
Addressing Sire Exemptions
The updated policy also addresses a growing concern regarding pedigree verification exemptions for AI sires
Since 2019, the Canadian Angus Association has required pedigree verification (PV) for sires However, in some situations producers have requested exemptions because the dam of a bull was no longer available for testing. While exemptions have been granted in appropriate circumstances, the number of these requests has gradually increased
Animals granted exemptions can sometimes carry areas of uncertainty within their pedigree records To reduce potential risks moving forward, the policy now requires these animals to undergo HD DNA testing and genetic condition screening
This additional level of verification provides greater confidence that there are no hidden issues within the pedigree and ensures the association has sufficient genetic markers available to resolve any future questions involving their progeny.
Protecting Breed Purity
At its core, the policy amendment reinforces one of the most fundamental priorities of the Canadian Angus Association: protecting breed purity
A reliable herdbook is essential to the long-term success of any breed. Buyers, breeders, and international partners rely on the accuracy of pedigree information when making breeding and purchasing decisions.
By strengthening genetic verification standards for AI sires and donor dams, the association is ensuring that the herdbook remains one of the most trusted in the global beef industry
These improvements also give members stronger tools to address potential challenges as breeding technologies continue to advance
Looking Ahead
The 2026 amendment to the AI and Donor Dam policy reflects a broader reality facing the beef industry: genetics are moving faster than ever before. With increased use of AI, embryo transfer, and private genetics programs, a small number of influential animals can now shape the breed more quickly and extensively than in the past.
In this environment, strong policies are not simply administrative requirements they are essential safeguards that protect the breed, the herdbook, and the reputation of Canadian Angus genetics worldwide
By implementing Genetic Condition testing and High Density marker requirements, aligning with international expectations, and strengthening verification standards, the Canadian Angus Association is taking a proactive approach that benefits its entire membership
Ultimately, these changes ensure that Canadian Angus breeders continue to operate with confidence, transparency, and integrity while maintaining the high standards that have defined the breed for generations.
From the Director ’s Chair
I hope this article finds everyone enjoying the beginning of their summer For those of you who don’t know me I am Nikki Weiss and we run a purebred and commercial Black Angus ranching operation in the Maple Creek area. I have been a Director on the Saskatchewan Angus Board since Fall 2024 and am part of the Commercial Committee and Mentorship and Member Engagement Committee. We sell twoyear-old bulls in the Top Cut Bull Sale every March in Maple Creek. Keeping our bulls until they are two allows us to calve our purebred cows in April and May along side our commercial herd which works best for our operation.
The proposed new traceability regulations are a hot topic lately and would affect all of us as producers whether you are a purebred or commercial operation. We attended one meeting in Maple Creek where a lot of producers voiced their opinions and concerns. While producer groups such as the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association provided feedback to the CFIA requesting these regulations be paused, and the CFIA has agreed to do so or the time being, it is clear they want an increased
tracking of movement in the Canadian cattle herd. I doubt this will be the last we hear about increased traceability regulations.
This is just one example of something the cattle industry faces on a yearly basis. Whether its traceability and trade, navigating a vet client patient relationship, resistance to commonly used veterinary products, a mineral deficiency, or water availability, the list is never ending.
One option available to producer ’s that can help with potential regulatory or environmental changes is the Verified Beef Production Plus Program (VBP+) This program does require some additional effort, but we have found it worthwhile. We have been a VBP+ certified operation for about nine years now. When we went through the audit process it was simple as we were already implementing most of the practices on our ranch. One small change we needed to make at that time was better records on treating sick animals I am sure most people are familiar with VBP+ but for those who need a refresher I will provide a brief overview The Verified Beef Production Plus program allows producers and the industry to demonstrate to consumers that our beef is produced in a way that ensures the highest standards for food safety, animal care, biosecurity and environmental stewardship For us it is a way to gain more value from following best management practices and to be ready if the changing market ever requires it I would encourage producers who are not already involved to look into the VBP+ program For most operations the practices are not a big jump. With more apps available to keep good records right on your phone it is easier than ever to start working towards better records if you aren’t already
by Nikki Weiss
in a position where you think this would be an easy transition.
In Saskatchewan there is also up to $15,000 in funding available if you become a certified VBP+ operation. After certification, we bought cattle oilers for multiple pastures and added a neck extender to our chute system. CCIA tag readers are also an eligible expense if they wind up being something all operations need, which was one concern many people had with the proposed traceability regulations
You can check out the Beef Cattle - Animal Health and Biosecurity Producer Program on the Saskatchewan government website to see what is eligible for funding under this program. From a financial standpoint there are two more initiatives in place to help promote the VBP+ program. The first being through Farm Credit Canada Every year we are eligible for a rebate through the Farm Credit Canada Sustainability incentive program. The payment is calculated on a portion of your lending from FCC. It is up to a maximum of $4000. The second being through Cargill With this we receive payments throughout the year through Cargill’s Qualifying Cattle program. This worked very well for us when we finished our own steers through a certified feedlot, and they were then sent to a certified abattoir.
In closing this is how the VBP+ program has been working for us. I do think it is an initiative that puts the industry’s best foot forward and it is always better to be ahead of the curve than behind it. None of us like government regulation and I believe VBP+ program is a strong case against government regulation being necessary. It is a program that was designed by producers, instead of the government.
SAA Ambassador Report
Well, it appears winter is finally over and hopefully everyone is okay for moisture this spring and anxious to see the grass growing again. It has been a busy spring for me with several large industry events happening in the first few months of the year and lots of opportunities to interact with Angus enthusiasts, old and new. January and February featured the Saskatchewan Beef Industry Conference, the Western Canadian Feedlot School and the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Semi-Annual Meeting which included the Honour Scroll Awards. Congratulations again to Dale and Shelly Easton on receiving their Honour Scroll Award and joining an elite group of Saskatchewan Livestock Breeders and Producers.
topic at all the events as the industry has pushed back on these and the regulatory bodies appear to be listening to this feedback There has also been more discussion and attention around the ongoing drought conditions in several parts of the province and subsequent plans to address support programs and strategies to tackle the growing nutritional challenges and mineral deficiencies being experienced on many operations, particularly in the southern portions of the province
I also had the opportunity to attend Ward’s Red Angus Bull Sale to present Clarke and Denise and their family with their 50 Year Canadian Angus Membership Award as well as the Freyburn Angus Farms Bull & Female Sale where Jason and Melissa Frey and family were recognized for being the 2026 Purebred Angus Breeders of the Year. You can watch for a feature on the Frey family in the Fall Edition of The Angus Edge
Bull sales were definitely strong again this spring with excellent demand and increased optimism in commercial circles with the record feeder cattle prices we continue to see I was pleased to attend a commercial bred female sale in Prince Albert which featured a strong contingent of bred Angus females contributed by Artesian Angus, Curtis and Sherry Riemer and family, who topped the sale again with their heifers Artesian Angus were the 2025 Commercial Angus Producer of the Year and were recognized for this at Agribition last fall and featured in the last edition of The Edge.
The industry meetings were well attended with the recent TB investigation and associated/pending changes to the traceability regulations being a very hot
April travels included stops at the Yorkton Spring Steer and Heifer Show and Saskatchewan Beef Expo which were some of the first opportunities of the year for young cattle enthusiasts to hit the show ring with their steer and heifer projects and featured a strong contingent of both Red and Black Angus influence animals It is great to see the increased
by Gord Roger
interest and participation in these spring and summer youth shows and it appears many new opportunities have popped up across the province with entries continuing to grow.
We also hosted a Breeder Information Session in Moose Jaw in April as well as a recent Producer Outreach Meeting in White Fox where the Reimer family helped us organize a nice educational day for producers in the NE region of the province, where we don’t have many activities. Thanks to everyone that presented as well as the producers that attended both days I’m sure we all took away some ideas from the great interaction at both events.
Summer is coming fast and will feature more industry meetings, field days and Jackpot, Junior and Pen shows across the province. The SAA Summer Angus Tour is also planned for July 29th and 30th in the Moose Jaw area and I look forward to meeting up with as many producers and SAA members as possible at these events
If there are other cattle industry activities in your area where you feel representation by the SAA Ambassador would be beneficial, please feel free to reach out to Belinda at her office or one of your regional SAA directors to pass these opportunities along.
Jeff Yorga, SSGA President; Dale & Shelly Easton; Michelle Potapinski
Gord presenting at White Fox
The Customer Service Way
The busy bull sale season has wrapped up, and sale reports indicate that many experienced successful sales. A strong cattle market has fueled continued supportive prices and high demand However, you too can have a significant impact on the success of your bull sale. This can be achieved by implementing customer service practices that influence bull buyers to purchase from you and return year after year
The decision for a cattleman to invest in a bull for their cattle breeding program is an important one Not only do buyers want to seek out the best animal that fits their budget and aligns with their cow herd goals, but they look forward to a positive experience with the seller
Excellent customer service leads to higher retention, loyalty, and satisfaction among customers Have you considered or evaluated the level of service you offer your customers before and after they make purchases?
During visits with several seedstock breeders and breed association representatives, I gathered some successful strategies that they have initiated or observed to enhance customer retention and create a positive customer experience. Here is what I heard.
Offer Guarantees or Support
With the goal of getting calves on the ground for the purchaser to begin recouping their investment, it’s crucial to address any issues that may arise Offering a first-breeding season guarantee is one way sellers accommodate for unforeseen situations involving the bull. For instance, “In the case of injury or death of the bull, we stand behind them offering them another bull to finish out the breeding season or provide them a credit towards a purchase the next year.” Another common piece of advice was, “Make sure if there is an issue, it gets dealt with yesterday ”
Demonstrating a willingness to help resolve a problem can reduce stress and uncertainty It was suggested to have spare bulls available in case a replacement is needed. While the replacement may not match the quality of the original bull, the key is to assist the customer in getting their cows bred to avoid any further setbacks in their herd management. As one cattleman stated, “If you don’t treat the bull buyer right, there are a lot of breeders who will take that buyer away from you ”
Delivery Options and In-Person Visits
by B Lynn Gordon
A part of bull sale season that many breeders enjoy, despite its demand on time, is delivering the bulls directly to the buyers. “The only ones we don’t deliver ourselves are the ones that we give a $250 take-home credit if they take the bull home themselves.” This producer said he personally delivers 95% of the over 100 bulls he sells each year He values the face-to-face opportunity to shake the customer’s hand, tell them thanks, and ensure the animals arrive in good condition. “This allows me to be there to answer any questions they have ” While this means a lot of miles on the pickup and trailer each sale season, he believes the return on his time and expense is worthwhile. A breed industry representative stated, “Getting into the yard of your customer, seeing their operation, and becoming part of their lives are all things you can accomplish by choosing to deliver the animal yourself rather than sending it on someone else’s trailer ”
With many sales now offering online bidding, buyers don’t always need to be present on sale day How can you connect with those buyers? If you are unable to deliver the bulls yourself, try to visit the producer when possible, or at the very least, give them a call when the bull arrives and check in again later to see how things are going.
Build Trusting Relationships
You don’t have to be the most prominent breeder to have a successful sale. One small seedstock producer, who has not ventured into online sales, continues to see his customer base grow, his sale average increase, and he sells more bulls each year. How does he accomplish this? He explains that despite advertising less than his fellow producers and allocating less expense into the production of the sale, he focused on building relationships with his customers and earning their trust. He emphasizes being passionate about the business and knowledgeable about what he sells, allowing him to effectively communicate with potential buyers. He understands the cow families each bull comes from, the outcomes of their sires, and can guide buyers to best fit their needs Remember, if a potential buyer calls and you struggle to explain the bull over the phone, it diminishes their comfort in making the purchase Plus, if customers only hear from you the day before the sale, you are not invested in their success and not emphatically striving to help them in their business.
In the end customer service is just as important as the quality of the bull. “Express an interest in their goals, followed by regular visits, and over time, the establishment of a personal relationship with your long-term bull buyers will develop,” confirmed one seedstock producer.
Saskatchewan Angus Commercial Producer of the Year
Some information to help you put together a nomination . . .
To be considered for Commercial Producer of the Year the individual/farm must
a. Have sound representation of Angus cattle in their herd
b. Promote the cattle to the best of their ability
c. Produce sound, quality cattle that are demanded in the market
The list of criteria is to be considered but not limited to when nominating for Commercial Producer of the Year
- Number of years actively involved in the cattle industry
- Current number of active females in their herd.
- Commercial Involvement - Sponsor/Advertise at commercial events, judge commercial events, attend commercial events as a contributor, actively marketing commercial Angus cattle with a sale, show, etc.
- Volunteerism - 4-H leader, Junior programs, local community, provincially and nationally
- Youth Involvement - Leader training opportunities for youth, Mentor program involvement, etc
- Promotion and Marketing of the Angus Breed - Sales - consignment sale, fall sells, background, finishes cattle, production sale. Attend commercial/pen shows as an exhibitor Media presence - Facebook page, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat, radio, print, email, signage
- Involvement in boards, organizations-Canadian/Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Associations, RM Council, Community boards, etc.
- Environmentally sound practices - Soil conservation practices, Seeding cover crops for forages, Responsible grazing practices, Member of VBP, sustainable beef.
Nominations are due by August 15 annually. Submit to office@saskatchewanangus.com with Commercial Producer of the Year as the subject line
The Saskatchewan Angus Association Board will review nominations received and select the Recipient at their Fall Board Meeting
Winners receive a Gate Sign at an event of their choice and are featured in the Spring ‘Angus Edge’.
Saskatchewan Junior Angus Report
Saskatchewan Junior Angus Association Board of Directors
Tanner Lowe - President
Meacham, SK - 306.270.4266 tpl44@icloud com
Abby Tomblin - Vice President Mozart, SK - 306 560 7240 abigail tomblin@gmail com
Sienna Bohrson - Secretary Hanley, SK - 639 213 7771 siennabohrson@icloud.com
Ashton Jungman - Junior Director
Duck Lake, SK - 306.222.9319 ashman m16@icloud com
Directors at Large
Avery Bohrson
Hanley, SK - 639.213.770 averyjanaye@icloud com
Kaycee Buchanan Caronport, SK - 306 513 5314 kayceebuchanan@gmail com
Hannah Hogberg Wunyard, SK - 306 560 7189 hannahhogberg11@gmail.com
Dylan Frey Oxbow, SK - 306 485 6787 dfrey5145@gmail.com
Joran Frey Oxbow, SK - 306.485.6789 joranfrey1@gmail com
Makenna Lowe
Meacham, SK - 306 213 7903 makg188@icould com
Ava Loveridge
Melville, SK - 306 730 5507 avaloveridge820@gmail.com
Eric Smith
Mankota, SK - 306.264.7331 eric smith33@icloud com
Emma Thomason
Central Butte, SK - 306 630 2039 emmathomason2005@icloud com
Sage Timmons
Mortlach, SK - 306 630 2569 timmonssage28@gmail com
Kylie Willms
Dundurn, SK - 306 380 4595 Kyliewillms101@gmail.com
Owen Willms
Dundurn, SK - 306.737.3909 owenwillms06@gmail com
Hello everyone, and welcome to the Summer Edge write-up from the Saskatchewan Junior Angus Association (SJAA) We all hope you had a great calving season, breeding went well, and you all have moisture! And that the grass is starting to grow in your area
As we reflect on what seemed like a neverending winter, we go to February where the Canadian Junior Angus GOAL Conference was held in Winnipeg, MB Saskatchewan had a strong representation with 19 Juniors from across the province making the trip Lots of key speakers talked to us on a variety of topics from financial management to new technology in the agriculture sector We all got to enjoy The Forks Market and skating on the river, as well as a tour of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and a show at Destinations Dinner Stage GOAL is a super enjoyable time and a great way to network and meet new juniors.
We would like to extend our thanks to Graco Angus Ranch, Kent and Maureen Schmidt for their donation lot in their 2026 Bull Sale The beautiful quilt, handmade by Kent’s mom, was sold with the proceeds going to SJAA We are grateful to the Schmidt’s for their continued support of our Juniors
by Tanner Lowe, President
Our number one goal within the SJAA is to have the best member engagement possible. We are always looking for the best ideas and new ways for our juniors to engage as members. We were looking at switching our junior show to be in conjunction with the Saskatchewan Junior Simmental Show in Weyburn, however it won’t work this year as the Simmental Show was already booked and overlaps with the CJA Showdown in Quebec. We are looking forward to planning to join the show next year, however. We feel this is a good idea going forward to gain more attendance and engagement with our junior members. Keep an eye out for future updates on the SJAA junior show If you have any better ideas or suggestions for us, we would love to hear from you. Contact myself, or any of the board members so we can bring it up at one of our meetings.
Looking forward, we have a great opportunity for Junior members in Ayer’s Cliff, Quebec. Showdown this year will be a fun, hands-on experience as it always is The deadline for the two Saskatchewan travel bursaries is June 1, as is the Foundation’s National Program bursary deadline You don’t want to miss out on these opportunities. As a Saskatchewan Junior, you will meet so many new people and grow your connections towards the east greatly. If you have any questions about the bursary or how the opportunities available work, don’t hestitate to reach out.
If you have any questions about Saskatchewan Junior Angus or how to join the Board feel free to reach out to Belinda, myself or any of the board members It’s a great learning experience; it looks good on a resume and helps you engage with other Juniors and breeders
Index of Advertisers Manitoba Tour
Save the Date ~ July 27, 2026
Manitoba Angus Summer Tour in the Alexander / Brandon, Manitoba area
This exciting event will bring together cattle producers, industry leaders, and Angus supporters for a full day of cattle viewing, networking, and fellowship 11:00 AM
Start at Rooke Farms, Alexander, MB
• Lunch
• Field Tours
• Red & Black Angus Breeder Displays
• Rooke Farms Red Angus Herd Tour
Then travel to Mar Mac Farms, Brandon, MB for:
• Mar Mac Red Angus Cattle Tour
• Supper
• Beef Industry Panel Discussion featuring respected livestock guests
Watch the Manitoba Angus website and Facebook page for more details on exact times and event updates It will be a great day in Friendly Manitoba!
Please note: The Manitoba Angus Tour takes place on Monday, July 27th, a day before heading west to the Moose Jaw area for the Saskatchewan Angus Tour on Tuesday July 28th – Thursday, July 30
Why not make it an Angus Week!
Howe Red Angus
Coming Events
June 1
Deadline for Entries, Showdown 2026
June 15 Deadline for LATE Entries, Showdown 2026
June 16
Livestock and Forage Centre of Excellence Field Day, Clavet, SK
Jun 25-26 Canadian Angus Convention, Kamloops, BC
July 16-18 Showdown 2025, Stettler, AB
July 27 Manitoba Angus Tour, Brandon, MB
July 29-30 Saskatchewan Angus Summer Tour, Moose Jaw area
Aug 15 Deadline for Saskatchewan Angus Commercial Producer of the Year Nominations
Aug 18-20 Canadian Beef Industry Conference, Winnipeg, MB
Oct 1 Deadline for The Angus Edge, Fall Edition
Oct 1
Deadline for Entries, NATIONAL ANGUS GOLD SHOW at Canadian Western Agribition
Oct 16 Saskatchewan Angus Annual General Meeting, Caronport, SK
Oct 16
Masterpiece Sale, Caronport, SK
Oct 28-31 Lloydminster Stockade Roundup, Lloydminster, SK 2026 Saskatchewan Angus GOLD & JUNIOR Shows
Nov 15 SJAA Scholarship Application Deadline
Nov 23-28 Canadian Western Agribition, Regina, SK
Nov 26 National Angus GOLD Shows, Regina, SK
Nov 27
CWA All Star Angus Sale, Regina, SK
Dec 9 South Shadow Angus Dispersal Sale, Maple Creek, SK
Dec 22 Mar Mac Farms Dispersal Sale, Brandon, MB
April 7/27 Howe Farm Bull Sale, Moose Jaw, SK
