By Andi Anderson
Selecting the right replacement heifers is one of the most important decisions for beef cattle producers. Strong replacement females contribute to herd productivity, reproductive success, and long-term profitability. To help producers make informed decisions, Purdue Extension is hosting a special educational program focused on replacement heifer selection.
The Beef Replacement Heifer Selection Program will take place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Southern Indiana Purdue Agricultural Center in Dubois, Indiana. The event is designed to provide practical information for producers interested in improving their cattle selection strategies.
The program will focus on two key areas of heifer selection: visual evaluation and genomic testing. Both methods play important roles in identifying females with strong genetic potential and desirable production traits.
A major highlight of the event will be a live animal evaluation session. Participants will have the opportunity to observe cattle and learn how to assess important physical characteristics when selecting replacement heifers. Visual evaluation remains an essential tool for identifying structural soundness, growth potential, and overall animal quality.
In addition to hands-on learning, attendees will hear presentations from experienced industry professionals. Dr. Gordon Jones, retired Western Kentucky Genetics Professor and Partner Red Hill Farms, will discuss the benefits of genomic testing in commercial cattle operations. His presentation, “Why use commercial heifer genomic testing and understanding selection indexes,” will explain how genetic information can help producers make more informed breeding and management decisions.
The program will also feature a panel discussion focused on how genomic information can support better bull selection and improve herd quality. The discussion, “How commercial heifer genomic data can help seedstock supplies assist commercial cattlemen to select bulls,” will include Chris Muegge, MS, Midwest Beef Cattle Consultants, and Dr. Nick Minton, Indiana Beef Evaluation Program Director and Purdue Beef Systems Specialist.
Experts will share insights on how genomic data can be used alongside traditional evaluation methods to strengthen breeding programs and improve cattle performance. Combining visual assessment with genetic information can help producers identify animals that best meet their operation's goals.
The educational event is open to interested producers and industry participants. There is no registration fee to attend, making it an excellent opportunity for cattle producers to gain valuable knowledge from leading experts.
Organizers encourage attendees to reserve their spot in advance. Participants are asked to RSVP by Wednesday, October 21, 2026, to Jason Tower via email at towerj@purdue.edu or by phone at 812-678-4427.
The program offers a valuable chance for beef producers to learn modern selection techniques and discover how genomic technology can support more profitable and productive cattle operations in the future.
Photo Credit: istock-emholk
Categories: Indiana, Livestock, Beef Cattle