Writer: Steve Byrns, 325-653-4576, s-byrns@tamu.edu
Contact: Dr. Dan Waldron, 325-653-4576, d-waldron@tamu.edu
SAN ANGELO – The annual ram performance test conducted by Texas A&M AgriLife Research will begin Sept. 16 with delivery of the Rambouillet rams to the Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at San Angelo.
The center is located just north of San Angelo on U.S. Highway 87.
The field day and sale of the top performance tested rams is set for March 21, 2014.
Dr. Dan Waldron, AgriLife Research geneticist at San Angelo who coordinates the test, said some of the top Rambouillet genetics in the world are represented.
“Flock improvement through identifying and documenting superior rams remains the sole purpose for the test and has been since this activity began in 1948,” Waldron said.
Other important dates associated with the ram test are:
– Oct. 1, initial shearing.
– Oct. 2, initial weigh-in.
– Nov. 20 and Jan. 8, 2014 are two other weight-check days.
– Feb. 19, 2014, final weighing and shearing.
Waldron said an initial fee of $430 per ram will be required and is expected to cover the costs associated with the test. Payment must be received on or before the Sept. 16 starting date.
For more information contact Waldron or Dr. Frank Craddock, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service state sheep and goat specialist at San Angelo, at 325-653-4576.
Complete information as it becomes available on the test animals will be posted at sanangelo.tamu.edu .
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