Raising The Bar As The UT Bull Test Program Wraps Up A Strong 2025 Season
DR. SAULO ZOCA
KNOXVILLE, TENNESSEE
The University of Tennessee Bull Development and Evaluation Program concluded another successful year with its annual Performance Tested Bull Sale, held December 11 at the Middle Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center in Lewisburg. The 2025 sale reflected the program’s continued growth and its vital role in providing Tennessee cattle producers with access to reliable, data-driven genetics that advance herd performance and profitability.
This year’s sale featured 48 performance-tested bulls developed under standardized management and nutritional conditions, ensuring fair and accurate comparison of growth and efficiency among consignments. A total of forty buyers from across the region participated in the sale, demonstrating strong confidence in the quality and integrity of the UT Bull Development and Evaluation Program. Gross receipts reached $357,750, with an impressive average of $7,453 per bull, evidence of both robust demand and sustained market value for objectively tested genetics.
The 2025 sale included 3 Simmental bulls that averaged $8,833, 19 SimAngus bulls that averaged $7,671, 19 Angus bulls that averaged $7,579, 6 Herefords that averaged $6,208, and one Red Angus that sold for $4,250. The highest selling bull of the event was Lot #6, Diamond M Good News 4157, an Angus bull that brought $10,500. He was followed closely by Diamond M Patriot 4182 (Lot #10) and Diamond M Growth Fund 425 (Lot #4), both Angus bulls that rounded out the top three sellers. The top Simmental was Lot #81, CBRS Blazing Glory 2926, selling for $9,750, while Lot #69, CBRS Cash Flow 026, led the SimAngus category at $9,500. The highest selling Hereford, Lot #39, BHMRHUSTON2406, sold for $7,500, and the top Red Angus bull, Lot #48, BFRA ESB Red Eagle 2406, sold for $4,250.
Program organizers extended congratulations to all consignors, bidders, and buyers who made this year’s event a success. Special recognition goes to Diamond M Farm for producing the three highest selling bulls and leading the Angus division. Cumberland Bottoms Ranch earned distinction for the highest selling SimAngus and Simmental bulls, while Bolen’s Herefords and Bell Farms topped the Hereford and Red Angus divisions, respectively. Each of these contributors represents the strong partnership between UT and Tennessee’s progressive beef producers, a collaboration that continues to elevate genetic quality across the state.
The UT Bull Development and Evaluation Program, administered jointly by UT AgResearch, UT Extension, and the Tennessee Beef Cattle Improvement Association, provides an unbiased environment for the post-weaning development and performance testing of bulls from across Tennessee and neighboring states. Conducted at the Middle Tennessee AgResearch and Education Center in Lewisburg, the program focuses on collecting objective data on growth, feed efficiency, carcass merit, and structural and reproductive soundness. This science-based approach enables producers to make informed, data-supported selection decisions and gives buyers confidence in the bulls they purchase.
In addition to the testing component, the program serves as an educational platform for both consignors and potential buyers. Participants gain access to comprehensive performance summaries, breeding soundness data, and carcass ultrasound results, resources that help guide breeding and marketing strategies in line with industry demands. Prior to each sale, UT Extension specialists host viewing sessions and share performance reports, ensuring transparency and engagement with cattlemen throughout Tennessee.
As the program looks ahead to the next testing cycle, enthusiasm remains high. The 2026 class will accept up to one hundred nominations, and preparations are already underway. Details about the upcoming season, including nomination forms, testing protocols, and schedule updates, will be available on the program’s website at tiny.utk.edu/bulltest.
The UT Bull Development and Evaluation Program continues to raise the bar for performance testing and producer education in Tennessee. Through its commitment to data integrity, producer partnerships, and applied research, the program strengthens the state’s beef industry while providing tangible economic value to both seedstock and commercial operations. As the 2025 season closes, the results from this year’s sale stand as a testament to the progress and promise of Tennessee’s beef producers, and to the University of Tennessee’s mission to advance agriculture through science, education, and service providingReal.Life.Solutions.
Producers interested in consigning bulls for next year’s program or seeking more information contact me at szoca@utk.edu. ∆
DR. SAULO ZOCA
UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE