American-International Charolais Association

☀️🌡️ Does hide color impact cattle performance?

Research from Montana State University explored how hide color interacts with extreme weather conditions and its potential effects on cattle temperature, intake behavior, and overall performance. With temperatures ranging from -40°F to 104°F during the study, researchers found that darker-hided cattle absorb more solar radiation and often experience higher surface temperatures in warm conditions, while lighter-colored cattle reflect more sunlight and may have an advantage during heat stress.

As environmental conditions continue to challenge cattle producers, understanding how genetics and physical traits influence performance can help drive better management decisions.

Read the full article here:https://animalrangeextension.montana.edu/beef/mooving-minutes/hidecolor.html

📢 Due to overwhelming interest, the American-International Charolais Association is extending the Genomic Bundle Testing opportunity!

To continue strengthening our genetic evaluation efforts and provide the highest level of service and value to our members, the Extended Genomic Bundle Testing program will remain available through 9/1/26.

This bundle offers an affordable way to gain valuable genomic information that supports more accurate genetic predictions and informed breeding decisions.

Learn more and take advantage of this opportunity here:
https://charolaisusa.com/extended-genomic-bundle-testing/

Award Announcement!

Congratulations to Autauga Farming Company, Autaugaville, AL, the 2026 BIF Commercial Producer of the Year!

Congratulations to two outstanding leaders in the Charolais industry on their well-deserved recognition at the 58th Annual Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) Research Symposium and Convention in Boise, Idaho.

🏆 Jim Johnson of Appomattox, Virginia, was honored as the 2026 BIF Ambassador Award recipient, recognizing his dedication and contributions to the advancement of the beef industry.

🏆 Gordon Jones, Ph.D., of Lafayette, Tennessee, received a BIF Continuing Service Award for his lasting impact and commitment to beef cattle improvement.

The American-International Charolais Association is proud to celebrate these achievements and the leadership both men have provided to the beef industry and the Charolais breed. Congratulations, Jim and Gordon, on these prestigious honors!

3rd Annual Alabama Elite Sale
Letohatchee, Ala. – May 16, 2026

Auctioneer: Billy Younkin, Letohatchee, Ala.
Sale Manager: Outfront Cattle Service, Lampasas, Texas.

Averages:
7 Bulls $5,535
11 Cow-calf Pairs $6,250
6 Cow-calf Splits $8,358
9 Bred Cows $6,100
5 Bred Heifers $5,250
8 Open Heifers $4,525

Not Included in Above Averages:
2 Cow-calf pairs $5,350
10 Units of Semen $125
57 Embryos $675

Total Sale Gross: $325,450

By Isaac Hughes

High-selling lots:
$9,750 – Cow-calf Split. DESCO-MY Ms Chief 211 P-ET, 3-6-22, by WCR Master Chief 037 P. Bred to RDK Sir Samson 037P. Heifer Calf, 9-25-25, by RDK Sir Samson 037P. From Dal-Dav Charolais, Booneville, Ind. Cow to Bobby Keahey, Grove Hill, Ala. Heifer Calf to Ryan Roper, Canon, Ga.

$8,600 – Cow-calf Split. DDC Jewely L02, 9-6-23, by RDK Sir Samson 037P. Bred to Heart J Royal Range 1743. Heifer calf, 8-6-25, by WCR Primed 1132 P. From Dal-Dav Charolais. Cow to Ray’s Charolais, Hillsboro, Tenn. Calf to Shane’s Farm, Ariton, Ala.

Note: Two Donation lots were offered with proceeds going to Cattle for Christ International, raising a total of $3,000.

Want to be eligible to vote for Even Area Directors? Make sure your AICA dues are paid by June 15 to secure your voting eligibility.

Don’t miss your opportunity to have a say in the leadership helping shape the future of the American-International Charolais Association. Learn more about the Board of Directors here: https://charolaisusa.com/about/board-of-directors/

May we never forget those who paid the ultimate sacrifice🇺🇸
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The AICA office will be closed May 25th. We will reopen Tuesday, May 26th at 8:00’am.

Last day! Don’t forget to get your orders in⬇️⬇️

AICA merch is live!

Rep the breed in style with exclusive American-International Charolais Association apparel, hats, and 2026 Char Cup gear—just in time for Junior National! ⚽️⚽️

⏰ Store closes May 20 — don’t wait!
📍 Picking up at Junior National? Skip the shipping and grab your order there.

Shop now: https://gearorders.com/collections/american-international-charolais-association

The industry is producing more Choice and Prime carcasses than ever before—but profitability isn’t just about marbling anymore. As carcass weights rise and excess fat increases, the conversation shifts to what truly matters: efficiency, yield, and pounds of saleable red meat. Charolais genetics are built to meet today’s market demands—delivering performance, feed efficiency, muscle expression, and red meat yield without sacrificing quality grade.

Read more about where the beef industry is headed and why balance matters more than ever: https://charolaisusa.com/the-beef-industry-is-producing-more-choice-and-prime-carcasses-than-ever-before-but-at-what-cost/

AICA merch is live!

Rep the breed in style with exclusive American-International Charolais Association apparel, hats, and 2026 Char Cup gear—just in time for Junior National! ⚽️⚽️

⏰ Store closes May 20 — don’t wait!
📍 Picking up at Junior National? Skip the shipping and grab your order there.

Shop now: https://gearorders.com/collections/american-international-charolais-association