American Wagyu Association: What Breeders Need to Know

The American Wagyu Association (AWA) is the official breed registry for Wagyu cattle in the United States. Founded in 1990, the AWA maintains the herdbook for Fullblood and Purebred Wagyu, conducts genetic evaluations, and promotes the Wagyu breed throughout North America. For any serious Wagyu breeder, understanding the AWA — its programs, standards, and resources — is essential.

What Is the American Wagyu Association?

The AWA is a non-profit breed registry headquartered in Post Falls, Idaho. Its primary functions include:

• Breed registration — Maintaining official records for Fullblood, Purebred, and Percentage Wagyu cattle
• Genetic evaluation — Computing and publishing EPDs (Expected Progeny Differences) for registered animals
• DNA testing and verification — Requiring parentage verification through DNA testing
• Breed promotion — Marketing and education about American Wagyu
• Industry events — Organizing conferences, sales, and educational events
• Research — Funding and supporting research to improve Wagyu genetics and production

AWA Registration Categories

The AWA maintains separate registrations based on the percentage of Wagyu genetics:

Why AWA Membership Matters

Joining the AWA is one of the first steps for any serious Wagyu operation. Here's what membership provides:

AWA Membership Costs

The AWA offers different membership levels. Pricing is subject to change — check the AWA website for current rates:

• Annual Membership — Typically $50-$100/year for individual or ranch membership
• Registration Fees — Per-animal fees for registering cattle (varies by category and member status)
• Transfer Fees — Fees for recording ownership transfers when animals are sold
• DNA Testing — Required for registration; fees cover lab testing for parentage verification

For most breeders, the cost of AWA membership is minimal compared to the value it provides in terms of credibility, registration services, and access to genetic data. Registered Wagyu consistently sell for significant premiums over unregistered animals.

The AWA EPD Program

The AWA's genetic evaluation program computes EPDs for registered Wagyu cattle. These EPDs are the primary tool for genetic selection in the breed. Key traits evaluated include:

• Birth Weight (BW)
• Weaning Weight (WW)
• Yearling Weight (YW)
• Marble Score (MS) — the highest-priority trait for most breeders
• Rib Eye Area (REA)
• Carcass Weight (CW)
• Subcutaneous Fat Depth (SFD)

The AWA publishes sire summaries with percentile breakdowns, allowing breeders to see how any sire ranks relative to the entire breed. For a deep dive into using these metrics, read our Understanding Wagyu EPDs guide.

DNA Requirements and Parentage Verification

One of the AWA's most important functions is ensuring genetic integrity through mandatory DNA testing. All Fullblood Wagyu registrations require:

1. DNA sample submission — Hair or blood sample sent to an AWA-approved laboratory
2. Parentage verification — DNA confirmation that the stated sire and dam are the actual parents
3. Genetic defect screening — Testing for known genetic conditions
4. Genomic profiling — Optional but increasingly common for genomic-enhanced EPDs

This DNA requirement is a critical safeguard for the breed's integrity and is one reason AWA-registered Wagyu command premium prices — buyers can trust the genetics are verified.

AWA vs. Other Wagyu Registries

While the AWA is the primary Wagyu registry in the US, breeders should be aware of other organizations:

• AWA (American Wagyu Association) — The dominant US registry. Largest database, most comprehensive EPD program, widest recognition.
• Australian Wagyu Association — The leading registry in Australia, which has a large Wagyu industry. Some US breeders with Australian-origin cattle may have dual registrations.
• JBBA (Japan) — The original Japanese breed registry. Japanese herdbook data informs US Fullblood pedigrees.

For US-based producers, AWA registration is the standard expectation. Buyers looking at your cattle will expect to see AWA papers.

How to Get Started with the AWA

1. Join the AWA — Complete a membership application and pay annual dues.
2. Submit DNA samples — For each animal you want to register, submit a DNA sample to an approved lab.
3. Complete registration paperwork — Provide pedigree information, including sire and dam registration numbers.
4. Record your herd — Once registered, maintain current records including breedings, births, and transfers.
5. Submit performance data — Contribute weaning weights, yearling weights, and carcass data to improve EPD accuracy for your animals and the breed.
6. Stay engaged — Attend the annual conference, participate in educational programs, and connect with other members.

The Bottom Line

AWA membership and registration are foundational to any credible Wagyu breeding operation in the United States. The association provides the genetic tools, integrity verification, and industry infrastructure that support the premium pricing and quality standards the Wagyu breed is known for. Whether you're starting with your first Wagyu purchase or expanding an established program, engaging with the AWA should be a priority.