Publish date: 9.21.2026
Genetic progress doesn’t stand still, and neither does ABS. Our August 2026 Holstein sire lineup demonstrates just how quickly elite genetics continue to advance. Compared to our April 2026 graduates, this newest group delivers substantial improvements across the industry’s most important profitability, production, fertility, and type traits.
This launch class is especially notable for its diversity and innovation. The group includes three homozygous polled Holsteins and three Linear Choice sires, while representing genetics from 21 different sires and 16 different maternal grandsires. This broad genetic base gives dairy producers more options to build mating programs that fit their herd goals while maintaining genetic diversity.
Significant Gains Across Key Traits
When comparing the average genetic values of the ABS August graduates to those launched in April, the progress is clear:
Genetic Progress within ABS: April 2026 vs. August 2026
| Trait | April | August | Difference |
| NM$ | $939 | $987 | +48 |
| TPI | 3300 | 3402 | +102 |
| Milk | 1030 | 1064 | +34 |
| CFP | 146 | 155 | +9 |
| DPR | -0.60 | 1.23 | +1.83 |
| CCR | 0.92 | 2.78 | +1.86 |
| PTAT | 0.53 | 0.64 | +0.11 |
| UDC | 0.47 | 0.60 | +0.13 |
| FL | 0.24 | 0.28 | +0.04 |
These gains reflect meaningful progress in the traits that drive dairy profitability and long-term herd success.
More Profit Potential
The August lineup increased average Net Merit dollars (NM$) by $48, reaching an impressive average of $987 NM$. This jump highlights the industry’s continued ability to identify and advance genetics that contribute to greater lifetime profitability.
At the same time, average TPI® climbed by 102 points, moving from 3300 to 3402. This substantial increase demonstrates balanced improvement across production, health, and conformation traits.
Stronger Production Genetics
Milk production remains a cornerstone of dairy profitability, and the August group delivers on that front as well.
Average Milk increased by 34 pounds, while Combined Fat and Protein (CFP) improved by 9 pounds. These gains help producers capitalize on component-driven milk markets while maintaining strong overall production performance.
Fertility Improvements Lead the Way
Perhaps the most striking progress comes in fertility traits.
Average Daughter Pregnancy Rate (DPR) improved by 1.83 points, moving from -0.60 to 1.23. Meanwhile, Cow Conception Rate (CCR) increased by 1.86 points, rising from 0.92 to 2.78.
These advancements reflect ABS’s commitment to delivering genetics that support reproductive efficiency, helping dairies reduce days open and improve overall herd performance.
Continued Progress in Type Traits
Beyond profitability and fertility, the August graduates also show improvement in key type traits.
- PTAT: +0.11
- UDC: +0.13
- Foot & Leg Composite: +0.04
These gains contribute to building cows with the structure, mobility, and udder quality needed for long-term performance in modern dairy systems.
A Diverse Lineup for Every Breeding Strategy
With three homozygous polled Holsteins, three Linear Choice sires, and representation from 21 sire lines and 16 maternal grandsires, this launch class offers producers a wide range of breeding options.
Whether your goals focus on profitability, fertility, production, type, or genetic diversity, the August 2026 graduates provide new opportunities to accelerate herd improvement.
The numbers tell the story: even since the last genetic evaluation, ABS has delivered another significant step forward in genetic progress.
