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UF/IFAS Artificial Insemination Certification

Extension Education

J.K. Yarborough
Livestock and Natural Resources Agent
Orlando

Abstract

The Beef Cattle Reproduction Management School, organized by the Central Florida Livestock Agents Group (CFLAG), initially focused on teaching palpation for pregnancy determination. This event is held in partnership with allied industry groups and Deseret Cattle and Citrus Ranch. However, some participants expressed interest in additional education on Artificial Insemination (AI). In response, the school expanded its curriculum to include AI training.

As the program progressed, participants began asking whether there was a certification for AI proficiency. While industry partners offer AI training and certification, there is no official standard for AI certification. To address this gap, we developed the UF/IFAS CFLAG Artificial Insemination Certification. This certification was designed to be a prestigious and challenging way to demonstrate proficiency in AI, while still being attainable for those with genuine skill.

To earn the certification, participants must first demonstrate proper semen handling, including tank retrieval and rod loading. They must then successfully pass a rod beyond the cervix on four separate occasions, with each attempt completed within a four-minute time limit. While participants of the Beef Cattle Reproduction Management School with AI are not required to attempt the certification, they are encouraged to continue developing their skills. Each participant receives a punch card, and for every successfully completed task, an instructor punches a hole. A fully punched card signifies eligibility for certification. All attempts are evaluated by UF/IFAS Agents, Researchers, or allied partners.

Although the certification has only been in practice for two years, the UF/IFAS CFLAG Artificial Insemination Certification has quickly become a respected standard. The goal is to build a highly skilled workforce in AI and have these professionals represent the CFLAG Beef Cattle Reproduction Management School, thereby attracting more motivated participants to the program. Currently about 29% of the participants (n=54) have become certified.

 

Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC

This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.

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Authors: J.K. Yarborough, Joe Walter, Brittany Justesen, Tim Wilson, Jona Bosques-Mendez, Laura Bennett, Caitlin Justesen, Andrea Lazzari, Wendy Mussoline, Ashley Stonecipher, Joseph Strickland, Kalan Taylor, Angela Gonella, Joao Bittar
  1. Yarborough, J. Livestock and Natural Resources Agent, Author, Florida, 32812
  2. Walter, J. Emeritus Program County Extension Agent III, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  3. Justesen, B. County Agriculture Agent, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  4. Wilson, T. CED and County Ag Production Agent IV, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  5. Bosques-Mendez, J. CED and County Ag Agent II, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  6. Bennett, L. Multi-County Ag Agent II, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  7. Justesen, C. County Ag Agent II, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  8. Lazzari, A. CED and County Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent II, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  9. Mussoline, W. CED and County Ag Agent III, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  10. Stonecipher, A. County Agriculture Agent II, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  11. Strickland, J. County Agricultre Agent IV, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  12. Taylor, K. CED and County Natural Resources Agent II, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  13. Gonella, A. Assistant Professor, Co-Author, Florida, 32812
  14. Bittar, J. Assitant Professor, Co-Author, Florida, 32812