Classification Programs

Holstein breeders can have their cattle evaluated for type (conformation) through the Holstein Association's linear classification programs. Holstein breeders use linear classification as a tool to breed, develop and market higher producing, more durable cows. The Holstein Association offers five different classification programs including two scheduling options in order to provide dairy producers maximum flexibility in how many cows they will have evaluated and when the classification will occur.

Participation Programs (See below)	Required Cows ^{1, 2}	Optional Cows ^*1	Official BAA Calculated
Classic	All cows that have ever freshened normally within 36 months	None	Yes
Standard	All non-permanent cows in milk	All other cows	Yes
Limited	All unscored cows in milk of less than 43 months of age. Scored cows in milk of less than 43 months of age whose previous scores were not usable for genetic evaluations.	All other cows	No
Introductory	All 1st and 2nd lactation cows in milk (Available only to breeders who have not classified within the past 4 years)	All other cows	No
Breeder's Choice	None	All cows	No
Classification Program Fees
^*1 Only those scores assigned to the required cows can be used for calculating genetic evaluations (cow and bull PTATs). Scores assigned to Optional cows cannot be used for this purpose. Required cows will be noted on your Classification Herd Inventory with an "R" following their ID number.		^*2 In addition to the normal group of Required cows, all other cows in milk and less than 43 months of age that have not previously been assigned a score usable for genetic evaluations will be Required to be presented in all participation programs except the Breeder's Choice and Introductory Programs.

Five Participation Programs

Classic
If it's important to you to have all your cows evaluated, the Classic program is for you. All of your cows will be evaluated, including previously scored animals. By participating in this program you will receive an official herd BAA, and are also eligible for herd recognition awards.

Standard
When you want most, but not all, of your cows evaluated the Standard program will meet your needs. In this program dry cows and cows with permanent scores are optional. An official herd BAA will be calculated for your herd and you are eligible for herd recognition awards.

Limited
The Limited program could be particularly appealing if your interest lies in evaluating first calf heifers. This program only requires all previously unscored cows in milk. In addition, any cows less than 43 months of age and in milk who do not have a previous score which was usable for genetic evaluation will be required.. All other cows are optional.

Introductory
If you haven't been classifying take advantage of this special program to get started. The Introductory program is available if you have not classified within the past four years. First and second lactation cows in milk are the only cows required to be presented. All other cows are optional.

Breeder's Choice
For that special animal, or for that important sale or show, you'll need the Breeder's Choice program. You are allowed to select which cows are to be evaluated, and there are no required cows.

Classification Program Fees

Scheduling Options

Area Scheduling
With this option you will participate in your choice of the classification programs during regionalized, pre-scheduled periods. Classifiers are in each Area on a seven-month cycle. Beginning in January 2002, some areas will remain on the 7 month cycle while other areas will be moved to a 12-month cycle. Refer to the Classification Schedule.

Non-Area Scheduling
This option allows participation in your choice of the classification programs at times other than when your Area is scheduled. It gives you the flexibility to classify when it is most convenient for you.