Artificial Insemination School at WSU Pullman Aug. 9 – 11

PULLMAN, Wash. — Washington State University Department of Animal Science is offering a cattle artificial insemination short course in Pullman, Aug. 9 – 11. The course will be taught by David DeAvila, a WSU instructor who has extensive experience in AI and in teaching AI to WSU undergraduates. The course will be limited to 12 people and the deadline to enroll is July 20.

Participants may arrive at their convenience and join the class from Thursday afternoon at 2 p.m. through Friday at noon. Course organizers strongly recommend that people with no AI experience come on Thursday for the extra time and instruction. Those looking for a refresher course are advised to arrive no later than noon on Friday. Classroom instruction in reproductive physiology, semen handling, estrus synchronization and heat checking will be given.

Tuition is $400 per person, regardless of time of arrival, which covers animal costs and supplies. The minimum age for participation is 15; all students under the age of 18 must have to have a parent or designated guardian with them.

The course was held last year and was well received. Hannah Neibergs, a high school student who also participated said, “The AI course at WSU was definitely a learning experience. You were able to take your time and have as much practice as you pleased. Overall this was a great experience. I would recommend taking this if you are interested in artificially inseminating.”

To enroll, go to www.ansci.wsu.edu and click the AI School link to fill out the registration form. The deadline for registration is July 20 and no refunds will be given. Registration is transferable. The course organizers will maintain a waiting list in order to accommodate as many people as possible.

Tentative schedule:

Thursday, August 9 (2-6 pm)
2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Introduction to AI and reproductive tracts
4:00 p.m. -6:00 p.m. Practice with cows

Friday, August 10 (9am-5pm)
9 a.m. – 12 p.m. Classroom instruction and practice
12 p.m. – 2 p.m. Break
2 p.m. – 6 p.m. Classroom instruction and practice

Saturday, August 11 (9am-3pm)
9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Classroom instruction and practice
11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Break
1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Classroom instruction and practice