Water delivery
Upgrades to the water delivery systems have commenced at the Beef Center. The water tanks in the pastures have been replaced with all-season water tanks. Enhancements to pasture fencing are underway to improve rotational grazing and sustainability. New automatic water tanks for the barns have been acquired and will be installed this summer.
Polled Wagyu
homozygous polled Wagyu in the WSU herd
In 2018, Brent McCann, the former Cattle Operations manager, began breeding homozygous polled Wagyu cattle. Genetic testing by the American Wagyu Association confirmed two homozygous polled Wagyu cattle born in 2023 – a heifer named WSU Miss L120 and a bull named WSU L125. DNA tests will continue to be used to identify other homozygous polled Wagyu cattle in future calf crops.
“This achievement is significant,” stated Goodman. “Homozygous polled Wagyu cattle are rare and valuable because their offspring will never have horns and eliminates the need for dehorning. This trait is especially beneficial in natural service programs focused on low-input management and animal welfare. These genetics offer a progressive solution while maintaining the integrity and quality of Wagyu beef.”