SPRING HILL, Tenn. \u2013 The University of Tennessee Bull Testing Program is now accepting nominations for the 2019-2020 gain test. Nominations are due July 19, with the test beginning August 13 at the Middle Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center in Spring Hill.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To be eligible to participate in the 84-day test, bulls must be born between September 1, 2018, and December 15, 2018. They must be of a registered breed with a performance record keeping program. All nominees will be required to have DNA testing and genomic enhanced Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) through their respective breed association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bulls that are accepted into the program must be delivered to the Middle Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center on August 13. Following a two-week adjustment period, the official test will begin on August 27.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
One purpose of the UT Bull Testing Program is to provide a standard, impartial post-weaning gain test that will produce quality records for breeders. All bulls will be weighed each 28-day period while on test, with progress reports sent to consignors. Those bulls that meet certain performance requirements and pass a breeding soundness exam will be eligible to be sold at a public auction on January 10, 2020.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For more information about the Bull Testing Program and eligibility requirements, download the 2019-2020 Senior Rules and Regulations<\/a> at ag.tennessee.edu\/AnimalScience\/Pages\/BullTestProgram.aspx<\/a>. Or contact the Middle Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center at 931-486-2129.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Bull Testing Program is a cooperative effort between UT Extension, UT AgResearch and the Tennessee Beef Cattle Improvement Association. <\/p>\n\n\n\n