History of the Texas Saanen Breeders Association
by Ruthann Brucato
In 1980, a small group of interested Saanen breeders decided to form a club, dedicated to bringing together Saanen breeders and owners throughout Texas for the purpose of information, help and fellowship.
It became apparent that there were a number of breeders scattered around the state and it was through this association that many of us met for the first time. By locating as many Saanen breeders as possible, the members became aware of the diverse bloodlines available in the state.
The members decided to hold a "Saanen Gathering" at the South Texas DGA show in Sinton in 1981. At the "Gathering", the subject of holding a Saanen Specialty in 1982 was discussed at length, and the discussion continued through the newsletter, the association's only source of contact from one year to another.
In June 1982, the First Texas Saanen Breeders Specialty was held at the Lake County DGA Show in Graham, Texas with Vivian Proctor as judge. It was then decided that the association attempt to hold an annual Saanen Specialty and try to have it located throughout the state. The 1987 Specialty was held in conjunction with the Alamo Area DGA Show.
The membership has grown steadily and now includes a number of members from other states. A newsletter is sent out to all members four times a year.
Through the initial efforts of Anabel and Ron Burnes, along with Susan Renshaw and Gay Bottoms, this club has proven to be a valuable asset to Texas Saanen Breeders. A Saanen Specialty is usually held in Texas at least every other year where the breed can be showcased. The TSBA provides a network of Saanen Breeders which proves helpful for locating stock or buck service, but primarily it provides a base for people with one thing in common............a love and admiration for this fine breed of dairy goat.
It became apparent that there were a number of breeders scattered around the state and it was through this association that many of us met for the first time. By locating as many Saanen breeders as possible, the members became aware of the diverse bloodlines available in the state.
The members decided to hold a "Saanen Gathering" at the South Texas DGA show in Sinton in 1981. At the "Gathering", the subject of holding a Saanen Specialty in 1982 was discussed at length, and the discussion continued through the newsletter, the association's only source of contact from one year to another.
In June 1982, the First Texas Saanen Breeders Specialty was held at the Lake County DGA Show in Graham, Texas with Vivian Proctor as judge. It was then decided that the association attempt to hold an annual Saanen Specialty and try to have it located throughout the state. The 1987 Specialty was held in conjunction with the Alamo Area DGA Show.
The membership has grown steadily and now includes a number of members from other states. A newsletter is sent out to all members four times a year.
Through the initial efforts of Anabel and Ron Burnes, along with Susan Renshaw and Gay Bottoms, this club has proven to be a valuable asset to Texas Saanen Breeders. A Saanen Specialty is usually held in Texas at least every other year where the breed can be showcased. The TSBA provides a network of Saanen Breeders which proves helpful for locating stock or buck service, but primarily it provides a base for people with one thing in common............a love and admiration for this fine breed of dairy goat.