The American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) recently announced the official launch of the GenProgress Jersey Sire Program, a new genetic advancement initiative designed to identify, test, and elevate the next generation of elite purebred Jersey sires. GenProgress establishes a higher, more uniform standard for young sire selection—one that emphasizes proven Jersey lineage, genetic performance, and maternal strength.

“GenProgress represents a new chapter for the Jersey breed,” said John Metzger, Consultant for Genetic and Research Development for the AJCA. “By identifying and promoting young sires from proven maternal lines—supported by real production and type data—we are building a pipeline of genetics that preserves breed purity, enhances performance, and ensures that Jerseys remain competitive and profitable in today’s dairy industry.”

GenProgress was created to maintain and enhance the qualities that make the Jersey cow the most efficient and profitable dairy breed in the world. The program prioritizes purebred standards and strengthens the sire-proving pipeline by implementing stringent entry requirements.

To qualify for the GenProgress program, young bulls must meet all of the following criteria:

• 99% Jersey Ancestry (PJA) minimum
• Sired by proven A.I. Jersey Bulls
• Dams and Grandams Must Have Official Type Appraisal Scores and Production Records
• GJPI Ranking in the Top Half of Active A.I. Sires

“These requirements guarantee that every young bull entering the program has both the pedigree depth and genetic potential necessary to influence the breed in a meaningful way,” Metzger added. “GenProgress will help breeders identify sires with the potential to improve efficiency, production, and long-term profitability while maintaining pure Jersey genes.”

Building the Future of Jersey Genetics

The GenProgress program marks a significant step forward in AJCA’s strategic commitment to breed improvement. Through transparency, collaboration, and science-based selection, the initiative will help breeders access young sires with the greatest potential to impact the breed positively. The new sire development program will focus on continuing to improve the breed through the following goals:

• Emphasis being placed on identifying young sires that carry strong Jersey lineage with consistent, reliable performance indicators.
• Priority given to cow families with documented strength in production, components, fertility, longevity, and type, ensuring a strong and documented foundation for the next generation.
• Bulls selected for the program will originate from dams and maternal relatives with verified production records, type appraisal scores, and other measurable performance traits.
• By guiding early genetic selection and encouraging widespread participation, GenProgress supports AJCA’s mission to promote meaningful, sustainable improvement within the Jersey breed and focus on profitability for Jersey owners.

A Call to Breeders: Be Part of the Progress

Breeders participating in the program will also retain ownership in the bulls they nominate and help to sample—giving herds a direct role in identifying and proving the next generation of breed-changing sires.

GenProgress is designed not only as a progeny testing program but as an investment in the future of pure Jersey genetics.

“We want breeders who believe in the power of pure Jersey pedigrees and are ready to help discover the next impactful sire,” said Metzger. “This program is about progress—but progress with purpose and integrity.”

Breeders interested in enrolling young bulls or learning more about the nomination process are encouraged to contact John Metzger at jmetzger@usjersey.com for full program guidelines.