The 2022 American Simmental Association (ASA) Fall Focus event brought seedstock and commercial cattle producers to Virginia earlier this year, where industry-leading researchers and professionals discussed the latest in genetic advancement and participated in tours, social events, and association business. Chip Kemp, ASA director of commercial and industry operations, said their location in Roanoke, Virginia, is an ideal spot to discuss cattle.
?Virginia’s been a welcome spot for us to come for Fall Focus because the southeast is a hotbed for genetic improvement, and for so many things that we think of now as commonplace in the business,? Kemp said. ?A lot of various improvement efforts started in the southeast part of the country. But as you look at the state of Virginia, where a lot of feeder cows are, it only makes sense.?
The Fall Focus is an annual forum for like-minded cattlemen to meet, network, and learn about the latest in genetic improvement applicable to farmers and ranchers. Jackie Atkins, director of science and operations for International Genetic Solutions, said they focus on helping producers take that information directly to their operations.
?We usually have a daylong educational symposium that draws from the faculty of local universities,? Atkins said. ?It?s centered around genetics?or genetics is a big topic. But we want this to be information the audience can take home and apply to their operations. We want to continue to innovate and improve what we’re trying to do and use science and technology to the best of our abilities.?
Gathering so many industry leaders in one place to have meaningful discussions means that improvements are bound to happen. Marty Ropp of Allied Genetic Resources said events like Fall Focus help spark industry advancements.
?It’s just a great place to combine and get a lot of information through these programs, with a tremendous amount of social interaction and the kind of mentorship that comes with putting 200 high-quality people in one room and subjecting them to information,? Ropp said. ?The conversations and growth that happen make this event worthwhile.?
For more information, visit simmental.org.
