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FINAL SHOT FOR ENTRIES |
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The final entry and ownership deadline for the 2026 VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo (JNHE), “The Masters in Madison,” is June 1. We are so excited to welcome Hereford families from across the country to join us on the course, but first we encourage you to complete the JNHE Entry Check list to ensure all of your entries are in order by the fast approaching deadline. Don’t miss your final shot to be part of an unforgettable week.
Show rules, judges, contest information and a tentative schedule are all available at the JNHE Resources page. Check in often to find all the details and information you need as you prepare for your trip. |
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BEYOND THE SHOWRING |
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The entries for all contests held in conjunction with the 2026 JNHE are open and the NJHA is excited to welcome all members to participate in educational contests and programs during the JNHE. Contest entries and registrations are all due June 1.
Through educational programs at the JNHE, Hereford youth have the opportunity to gain invaluable skills that will enable them to become self-directing, educated leaders in today’s world. Rules for all contests have been updated and adjusted to encourage involvement and success for our junior members |
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ATTENTION STEER EXHIBITORS |
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The 2026 VitaFerm® JNHE reminds all steer exhibitors that all steers are required to be parent verified to both sire and dam. A completed DNA profile for the steer, sire and dam through the official AHA lab must be on file by the entry deadline in order for entries to be accepted.
Due to the extremely high volume of samples currently being submitted, turnaround times for hair samples have increased significantly and are now estimated at 6–8 weeks, while tissue, blood and semen samples continue to process within the normal 3–4 week timeline. At this stage, exhibitors who have not yet submitted hair samples should understand that results may not be completed in time to meet JNHE entry requirements.
Exhibitors are ultimately responsible for ensuring all DNA requirements are completed by the entry deadline. Exceptions will NOT be made for delayed processing times.
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EPD/TPR COMPLIANCE CHECK |
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Check your TPR status by logging into MyHerd. Your MyHerd home page will show you any information you are behind on. This is listed in the portion "OVERDUE information required before newer information can be accepted." If you have tasks listed here, than your account is currently non-compliant. You can also call or email Customer Service to check on or update your current TPR status |
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JNHE EXHIBITOR CHECKLIST |
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Are your NJHA membership dues paid?
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Does your steer have a DNA profile on file at the association?
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Are your bred-and-owned animals registered correctly?
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All of your animals have been registered and transferred.
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Entries submitted prior to the earlybird deadline with animals not meeting the entry requirements will be put on hold and will be charged an additional $20.
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There will be NO substitutions or refunds issued for the JNHE.
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JNHE LODGING INFORMATION |
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We are quickly approaching the upcoming hotel reservation cut-off date of June 13, for Madison, Wis., during the dates of July 4-10. We encourage all exhibitors to book rooms through the JNHE hotel block if you haven't done so already.
If your plans have changed and you no longer need some or all of your reserved rooms, we kindly ask that you cancel those reservations as soon as possible. We currently have families on a waiting list hoping to secure hotel accommodations, and early cancellations help us assist as many exhibitors and families as possible.
If you are interested in camping, the Alliant Energy Center (AEC) offers camping onsite. Reservations for camping spots are now open and will be handled by the AEC. |
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MEET OUR INTERNS |
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We’re excited to welcome two rising leaders to the American Hereford Association office this summer as they step onto the course to help support the VitaFerm® JNHE and Faces of Leadership conference.
Carli Doerge of Henderson, Texas, and Skyler Ward of New Paris, Ohio, are ready to take their swing at planning, coordination and hands-on event experience — a summer of learning, leadership and a few great drives ahead — let’s tee it up! |
| Learn More |
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TEE OFF THIS SUMMER |
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While juniors compete in the Judging Contest, parents and supporters are invited to head over to Pleasant View Golf Course and take part in the Hereford Invitational Golf Tournament. Register your team of four and enjoy a day on the course during the JNHE on July 6, proudly sponsored by Cottonwood Springs Farm.
Tee off with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start and enjoy 18 holes of friendly competition — all for a great cause. Proceeds benefit the Faces of Leadership Scholarship Endowment, supported by the National Hereford Women and the Hereford Youth Foundation of America. |
| Register Your Team |
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RUN FOR THE NJHA BOARD OF DIRECTORS |
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On behalf of the NJHA, the board of directors travels to various activities, meeting fellow members and sharing their thoughts and experiences of Hereford involvement. They also get first-hand experience at leadership, cooperation and organization.
Being on the NJHA board of directors is a responsibility that should be taken seriously. Before applying, please make sure to read through the Board Agreement and Code of Conduct that you sign once elected, stating you are capable of meeting those requirements.
Applications for the NJHA Board of Directors: JUNE 1
Director Nomination Form Submitted by the State Advisor: JUNE 1
State Voting Delegates Submitted by the State Advisor: JUNE 15 |
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ELEVATE YOUR IMPACT — JOIN THE CLUB |
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Join the Foundation Club for a VIP experience at the 2026 VitaFerm JNHE. With three levels of membership, members receive exclusive VIP passes, including access to premium seating areas throughout the event. Enjoy added perks like beverages and hors d’oeuvres served during select hours — while supporting the future of the Hereford breed.
Become a member of the Foundation Club at the 2026 JNHE in Madison, Wis., and enjoy a VIP experience like no other. |
| Join the Club |
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THE VOICE OF THE NJHA |
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The Advantage Newsletter, the voice of the NJHA should be in mailboxes and homes, packed with everything you need to know for an exciting summer ahead. From upcoming events to ways junior members can get involved, you won’t want to miss this issue.
In this edition of The Advantage newsletter highlights include the VitaFerm® Junior National Hereford Expo “The Hereford Masters in Madison,” the different leadership roles at the national level for National Junior Hereford Association members, and reaching both a grassroots and global audience. |
| Read it Here |
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LEADERS ON THE RISE |
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Save the date — July 29 - August 1. Registration is open for the 2026 Faces of Leadership Conference in Boise, Idaho. Get ready to grow your leadership skills, make lasting connections and experience an unforgettable event.
NJHA members age 14-21, make sure to join us for a conference that builds communication skills, teamwork and personal leadership through hands-on learning and industry connection.
Earlybird Registration Deadline: June 15
Final Registration Deadline: July 1 |
| Learn More |
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