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Dates are set for the 2005 Angora Goat Performance Test at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station in Sonora.
"This test is all about genetic improvement. The program is designed to give breeders and prospective buyers valid comparisons of mohair quality and production and growth rates of bucks from different breeders," said Dr. Dan Waldron, Experiment station geneticist at San Angelo and the test's coordinator.
Waldron said the test will be conducted only if at least 10 different breeders enter a minimum of 50 bucks altogether. Breeders must notify the Experiment Station of their intent to enter goats by Feb. 3 by calling (325) 387-3168.
If enough animals are entered, the test will start with the delivery of animals to the station on Feb. 28 and March 1. The station is 28 miles south of Sonora on U.S. Hwy. 55.
"The test has been held almost annually since 1980," said Waldron, "But uncertainty in the Angora goat industry has prompted us to add the numbers stipulation in recent years. Thankfully, it has never been an issue, and I again look forward to receiving an outstanding set of Angora bucks for the 2005 test."
Individual breeders are limited to entering no more than 12 animals, except by special permission. A minimum of four animals per owner and sire group is suggested but not required.
The bucks are set to be shorn March 8. The initial test weigh-in is set for March 9. The goats are to be weighed again on May 4 and weighed and sheared a final time on June 29 and 30 respectively. The annual field day and potential sale is set for July 28.
The testing fee of $150 per animal is due upon arrival of the goats to the station.
For more information contact Waldron, Dr. Frank Craddock or Dr. Chris Lupton at (325) 653-4576. Or e-mail Waldron at d-waldron@tamu.edu.
