American Jersey Cattle Registry
By American Jersey Cattle Association
Last reviewed: December 2025
The official breed registry for Jersey cattle in the United States, dedicated to genetic improvement and promotion of the world's most efficient dairy breed.
The American Jersey Cattle Association (AJCA) has promoted and protected Jersey cattle in the United States since 1868, making it one of the oldest dairy breed organizations in the country. The Association maintains the official Jersey Herd Register and provides comprehensive services to more than 2,500 active members.
Jerseys are known for their exceptional feed efficiency, producing more milk components per pound of body weight than any other breed. The AJCA's genetic programs, including JPI (Jersey Performance Index), help breeders select for profitable traits while maintaining the breed's renowned grazing ability and adaptability.
The organization also operates Jersey Marketing Service and the National All-Jersey Inc. cooperative, providing marketing support and research into Jersey product advantages.
Key Features
- Jersey Herd Register: Official pedigree registration maintaining breed purity and genetic documentation
- JerseyMate Software: Proprietary mating program optimizing genetic improvement while managing inbreeding
- Performance Programs: REAP (Records of Excellence Appraisal Program) for production and type data collection
- Genetic Evaluations: Jersey-specific genetic evaluations including JPI, grazing merit, and health traits
- Jersey Marketing Service: Consignment sales, private treaty sales, and marketing support for registered cattle
Advanced Features
- Genomic Testing Integration: Partnership with major labs for Jersey-specific genomic evaluations and parent verification
- Linear Type Evaluation: Trained evaluators assess 21 type traits using Jersey-specific standards
- Herd Appraisal Program: Complete herd evaluations for genetic planning and marketing preparation
- International Pedigree Recognition: Recognition of Jersey pedigrees from other countries for imported genetics
- Jersey Journal Access: Monthly breed publication with genetic trends, management tips, and industry news
Ideal For
Farm Types: Registered Jersey breeders, Grass-based dairies, Component-focused operations, Small to medium family farms, Show cattle operations
Competitive Advantages
What sets Jersey Cattle Registry apart from alternatives:
- JerseyMate is the most sophisticated breed-specific mating program available
- Strong component premiums make registered Jersey genetics highly marketable
- Excellent grazing genetics database for pasture-based operations
- Active breed promotion through National Heifer Sale and World Classic events
- Dedicated research into Jersey milk advantages for cheese and specialty products
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for Jersey Cattle Registry:
Membership required for registration privileges. Fees based on age at registration.
Pricing Model: per-head
Junior members receive discounted rates. Volume discounts for large registrations.
Pros & Considerations
- Premier Jersey breed organization in the US
- Comprehensive registration and genealogy services
- Strong genetic evaluation programs
- Active breed promotion and marketing
- Jersey Performance Index and other tools
- Registration and service fees
- Focused on purebred Jersey cattle
- Full services require membership
- Some programs require additional enrollment
Implementation & Setup
How to implement Jersey Cattle Registry on your dairy operation:
Implementation Timeline: Online registration processed within 24-48 hours for complete applications
Training & Support
Training and support options available for Jersey Cattle Registry:
Support Channels:
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating Jersey Cattle Registry:
- Is component pricing important in your milk market?
- Are you interested in grass-based or low-input dairying?
- Do you plan to sell breeding stock or show cattle?
- How important is heat tolerance and feed efficiency for your operation?
- Do you want access to Jersey-specific genetic evaluations like JPI?
- Are young people in your family interested in dairy youth programs?
- Would Jersey Marketing Service help you market your genetics?