Holstein Association USA is reporting strong member participation in a variety of Association programs in 2010.
“Registrations are the core of all pedigreed livestock associations,” said Holstein Association USA CEO John M. Meyer. “In 2010, 339,908 Holsteins were registered which is 12,286 or 4 percent more than 2009, the second highest total in the last 12 years.”
In addition to that, strong growth was seen in transfer activity, with 70,335 animals changing hands last year, which is a 13 percent increase over 2009 totals.
Meyer added, “Members’ appreciation of the Holstein COMPLETESM program is evidenced by the enrollment of 239,703 cows, which is a 3 percent increase over 2009, and 1,759 herds which is a 2 percent increase.”
Holstein COMPLETE is a program which integrates registration, pedigrees, classification, production records, genetic reports and mating information into one convenient, economic package.
The Association’s team of classifiers evaluated 217,996 cows through the regular classification program in 2010, representing a 3 percent increase over the previous year. On the other hand, 15 percent fewer animals through the Sire Evaluation for Type (SET) SM program, which is performed for the A.I. industry.
Participation in the TriStarSM Premier program participation continues to rise, with a total of 300,083 cows enrolled, which is a 1 percent increase over a year ago.
“The Holstein Association’s program growth is particularly significant when one considers the contraction of the dairy industry in recent years,” stated Meyer. “For example, in 2009, there were 9.09 million cows and 65,000 herds in the United States, which is 240,000 fewer cows and 2,000 fewer herds than were in the U.S. in 2008. Gaining market share in this economic environment is challenging, but the numbers reveal the value dairy producers place on the Association’s programs and services.”
In closing, Meyer added, “As we celebrate the wonderful history of the Holstein Association USA and the world’s greatest cow, the U.S. Registered HolsteinSM, we have a lot to be optimistic about. We have the cows and people to ensure a bright future for everyone involved in U.S. Registered Holsteins.”
Source: Holstein Association USA, Inc.