AlpacaGram 8.64 | 2021 EPD Calculation

AlpacaGram 8.36
AlpacaGram 8.64July 14, 2021

2021 EPD Calculation

There is still time to ship your samples and have them included in the 2021 EPD calculation!

Fleeces can be tested year-round, but to have your trait data included in the next calculation ship your samples by August 5.

So what are EPDs? Expected Progeny Differences or EPDs are genetic predictions that producers can use when making breeding and buying decisions. EPDs are not unique to alpaca owners. These values are readily available on registered animals from most livestock associations. It was member feedback that led to the development of the AOA EPD program in 2007.

Every year we have seen increased participation in the AOA EPD program as our members have learned how EPDs can help them with their breeding and buying decisions, resulting in the production of higher quality fleece. At the end of 2020, there were 77,027 huacayas and 16,778 suris for a total of 93,805 alpacas with EPDs.

For many livestock species, producers not only utilize EPDs to help with their breeding and buying decisions, those wishing to market animals will often market them using the EPD information. If you look at your alpacas on the AOA website, when you click on an individual alpaca, you can then click on Promo Sheet to print a promotional sheet that includes EPD and pedigree information that can assist you in marketing your alpacas.

AOA performs EPD calculations once a year, which is why fleece samples must be submitted for testing by August 5 in order to be included in the current year evaluation. All of the information you need regarding how to collect and submit samples is located at www.alpacainfo.com. We hope that you will learn more about EPDs and consider submitting data for the next calculation.

Please Note

  • To have your trait data included in the calculations you must use the AOA Shear Report Tool. The Shear Report Guide provides step by step instructions for using our online shear report tool.
  • After completing the information in the shear report tool and downloading your order forms visit the SGS page for ordering instructions.
  • New this year, SGS only requires a 2" x 2" sample from the mid-side.
  • Pack your samples in the smallest envelope or box possible to save on shipping costs.
  • We highly recommend shipping via a service that tracks shipments.
  • From member feedback, FedEx seems to be a pricier shipping option compared to others.
  • Contact the office with questions!

To learn more about EPDs and how to use the data visit the resources below.

Additional EPD Resources

Trait data is confidential on the AOA website and can only be seen by the owners. Expected Progeny Differences (EPD) data is confidential unless you choose to mark it public.

Submit your fleece samples today!

Easy. Convenient. Confidential.

Buck Brook Alpacas
AOA Silver Benefactors
Applewood Lane Alpacas

© 2021 Alpaca Owners Association, Inc.