Artificial insemination 

Angus members continue to embrace the use of AI as 53 years later, the decision made in 1972 still has a substantial influence on the breed. Prior to open AI being implemented, calves provided by AI could be registered if the member owned the sire, so AI technology was already being utilized by members, just in a more limited capacity. 

Looking back over time, in 1976, four years after open AI was made available, 14% of registered calves were produced by AI (Figure 1). From 1976 to 1984, there was a 19% increase in the number of calves registered that were produced by AI. Since that time, the percentage of calves registered produced by AI continues to grow each decade. Most recently, in FY 2024, approximately 58% of the calves registered were produced by AI. 

AI has allowed breeders to gain access to genetics they wouldn’t have otherwise. It allows sires to have a larger impact in the breed than they would if only producing calves naturally. AI also allows producers to use those genetics even after a bull is dead, as long as there is viable semen available. In fiscal year 2024, calves produced both naturally and as a result of AI resulted from genetics spanning across seven decades. 

Embryo transfer

Embryo transfer (ET) is another reproductive technology Angus breeders have embraced through the decades. The first ET calf was recorded with the Association in 1977. The following fiscal year, there were 105 ET calves registered. Since that time, there has been steady growth in the use of ET technology. 

In 1984, 2% of the calves registered were produced by ET (Figure 2). During a decade, that percentage increased to 4% in 1994. In a 20-year time span, in 2014, ET calves represented 10% of registrations. Most recently in 2024, 16% of the calves registered were produced by ET. Angus members continue to take advantage of reproductive technologies to advance genetics in their herds and ultimately the entire beef industry. 

Additional technologies

Advancements in science for reproduction continue to evolve. From cloning to sexed semen and the possibility of gene editing to more refined methods for current technologies, there will continue to be opportunities for Angus members to use these technologies in their herd to advance their genetics. 

If only George Grant could see the changes that have taken place in the beef industry over the last 152 years since the first Angus bulls came to America. Angus breeders have a rich history of using tradition to inspire innovation and embrace new technologies to advance the Angus breed.