OMAHA, NEB. — Greater Omaha Packing announced the launch a new Hereford Affidavit, developed in partnership with the American Hereford Association. The purpose of the affidavit is to expand opportunities for producers and ensure that Hereford-influenced fat cattle can qualify for program premiums.

Traditionally, to qualify for program premiums associated with the Hereford breed, Hereford-crossed cattle needed to meet the 51% white face phenotype requirement. For decades, though, increased pigmentation within the Hereford breed has posed a challenge for producers aiming to meet this requirement.

The newly announced affidavit offers a solution by allowing commercial cow-calf producers to certify the Hereford genetic influence of their calves, ensuring eligibility and making them more sought after by feedlots looking to meet program requirements.

“This is a win-win for producers and feedlots,” said Dustin Schaaf, head cattle buyer at Greater Omaha Packing. “By verifying genetic merit rather than relying solely on visual phenotype, producers can unlock additional value for their calves, while feedlots can more easily qualify for program premiums.”

Greater Omaha said this development is a streamlined approach that benefits the beef industry from cow-calf producers to feedlots.

Producers with Hereford-influenced feeder cattle are encouraged to reach out to Greater Omaha Packing, the American Hereford Association or their seedstock supplier for more details.