Wisconsin Beef Improvement Association Hosts 69th Annual Bull Sale

The WBIA's forage-based testing program aims to provide top genetics to regional cattle producers.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:39pm

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A close-up studio photograph of a collection of premium, polished metal cattle tags, ear tags, and identification chips arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic background, conceptually representing the data-driven, scientific approach to cattle breeding and genetics that the WBIA sale embodies.The WBIA's data-driven approach to evaluating and selling bulls aims to provide Wisconsin cattle producers with access to high-quality genetics to improve their herds' productivity.Platteville Today

The Wisconsin Beef Improvement Association (WBIA) is hosting its 69th annual bull sale this Saturday, April 4th, at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Pioneer Farm. The sale features bulls that have undergone a 100-day testing period focused on evaluating genetic traits like calving ease, growth, and carcass quality rather than just appearance.

Why it matters

The WBIA sale is a long-standing tradition that helps Wisconsin cattle producers access high-quality, data-driven genetics to improve the productivity and profitability of their herds. The association's shift in the late 1990s to a forage-based diet and evaluation process reflects the industry's move toward more efficient, mobile, and long-lasting cattle.

The details

All sale-eligible bulls must meet a strict threshold of gaining three pounds per day on a forage-based diet. Those that don't meet the mark or fail evaluations for structural soundness and disposition are sent home. The sale features a variety of breeds and genetic traits, and buyers can attend in person or bid remotely via telephone or DVAuction.

  • The WBIA Sale takes place on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
  • The bulls undergo a 100-day testing period prior to the sale.

The players

Wisconsin Beef Improvement Association (WBIA)

A non-profit organization that has hosted an annual bull sale for 69 years, focused on providing regional cattle producers access to high-quality, data-driven genetics to improve their herds.

Allan Arndt

The WBIA President, Simmental Director, and a longtime consigner to the annual bull sale.

University of Wisconsin-Platteville Pioneer Farm

The location where the WBIA's annual bull sale takes place.

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What they’re saying

“When you bring your bulls into a central location, and they all get the same management, they all get the same feed, and they all get the same care for 100 days, they kind of sort themselves a little bit. They either sink or swim when they're there.”

— Allan Arndt, WBIA President, Simmental Director

What’s next

The WBIA Sale will take place this Saturday, April 4th, at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Pioneer Farm, with bidding available in person as well as remotely.

The takeaway

The WBIA's data-driven, forage-based approach to evaluating and selling bulls provides Wisconsin cattle producers access to high-quality genetics that can improve the productivity and profitability of their herds, reflecting the industry's shift toward more efficient and sustainable cattle.