As part of your support of the Cattle Drive Program, we are excited to share with you your genomic data on your steer including valuable information that plays an increasingly important role in today’s cattle industry.

To help you better understand what those results mean, we’ve partnered with Neogen to share an article that breaks down how genomic testing is used in modern cattle selection, along with practical examples to help you interpret your own data. Whether you’re familiar with genomics or seeing this type of information for the first time, this resource is designed to give you greater insight into the value behind your investment.

Driving the Herd Forward: How Genomic Results Shape Modern Cattle Selection

Igenity® Beef DNA testing from Neogen is a tool that helps cattle producers make smarter, everyday decisions. Think of it like a simple report card for each animal. It looks at important traits like mothering ability, growth, and meat quality. Each trait is scored on an easy 1–10 scale. Higher scores usually mean better potential, except for Residual Feed Intake (RFI), where a lower score is better because it means the animal converts feed more efficiently. Most cattle average around a score of 5, so scores above this indicate above-average genetic potential for that trait.

In the 2026 MSGA group, some animals really stand out. Animal M69 shows strong, balanced performance with above-average scores for both maternal traits and carcass qualities at a 6.75 and 7.9, respectively. Animal M52 is another top performer, combining excellent mothering ability at a 7.25 Maternal Index (IMI) paired with a strong growth and Terminal Index (ITI) at 6.5. Performance data from terminal animals can be traced back to their sires and dams, enabling the identification of higher-performing parent stock. These scores give producers confidence that they’re choosing animals based on real data, not guesswork. In simple terms, it helps build a herd that performs better and brings in more value over time.

Another valuable component of Igenity Beef is parent verification, which works like checking a family tree. Even in well-managed herds, mistakes can happen in identifying which bull sired which calf. Industry research shows this can happen about 10 percent of the time. These mix-ups can slow progress by keeping the wrong animals or removing good ones. By knowing exactly which animals are the parents, producers can make faster improvements. Often, the biggest benefit comes from quickly spotting bulls that are not producing strong calves.

For herds raised in higher elevations, there is also a test for a condition called Bovine Congestive Heart Failure (BCHF). This test, developed in partnership with Simplot, estimates an animal’s genetic risk for heart problems. BCHF is a multifactorial syndrome, meaning it is influenced by genetics, environment, and management. Test results are reported as an EPD, accuracy, and percentile rank, with lower EPD values indicating lower predicted genetic risk. In the MSGA group, animals such as M59, M92, and M57 rank among the top 20 percent of animals tested. With information at hand, producers can take a proactive approach reducing risk, improving herd health, and avoiding costly losses before they happen—ultimately protecting your investment.

Igenity Feeder test predicts how cattle will perform where it matters most—on feed and at harvest—linking genetics to carcass value and profitability. Using tools like the Terminal Index (ITI), Days on Feed Index (DOF), and Branded Tier, gives a clear snapshot to sort and market cattle with confidence. The ITI combines the most economically relevant traits into a single value—hot carcass weight, marbling, ribeye area, tenderness, residual feed intake, and back fat thickness. High-ranking cattle in this category deliver heavier carcasses and stronger returns. Cattle in the 5.5–6.5 ITI range often stay on feed longer to reach marbling premiums, while those above 5.95 ITI rank in the top 25 percent (Elite Branded Tier). Leading the way in this elite category are standouts like M69, M15, and M17, cattle that combine performance and carcass merit at a high level. Not far behind, cattle such as M52, M96, M95 offer a strong balance of value, landing in that desirable mid-range ITI window while still delivering the marbling needed to hit premium targets.

Overall, Igenity testing makes complex genetic information easy to understand. It helps producers choose the best animals, avoid costly mistakes, and improve their herd year after year. Instead of relying on guesswork, they can use clear, simple data to raise healthier cattle, produce better beef, and increase their returns.

Kaci Neuhalfen
Inside Sales Representative-West Region