(Bridgewater, Iowa) – Dave Nichols of Nichols Farms, near Bridgewater, was honored with induction into the American Angus Association’s Heritage Foundation at the 2022 Angus Convention held in Salt Lake City, Utah, in November 2022. AAA created the Heritage Foundation in 1983 to honor the contributions of individuals who have gone above and beyond for the Angus Breed.

Nichols was selected for his groundbreaking work in data collection. Nichols Farms was one of the first herds to incorporate computer performance records to intricate feed intake and measurement systems, and has continuously adapted and extended the limits of performance records. Today, Nichols Farms collects and maintains more than 70 fields of data on each animal.

Officials with the Foundation say Nichols’ immense interest in data led to his heavy involvement in the Angus Herd Improvement Records (AHIR), and Beef Improvement Federation (BIF), along with partaking in numerous research projects to improve technology, placing him at the forefront of today’s EPD program. The farm’s latest research project focuses on feed efficiency, collecting data beef producers can utilize in breeding decisions.

Dave Nichols (Photo & story submitted by Terri Queck-Matzie.

In making the award announcement, officials with the Foundation said “Inductees of the Heritage Foundation depict the type of individuals who built a reputation with their drive, ambition and forward-thinking attitude. From his leadership and accolades, to his dedication to providing customers with a firm handshake and the best genetics possible, Nichols’ investment in the breed and its success is evident in all he does.”

In addition to Nichols, the 2022 Heritage Foundation inductees include: Jim and Sue Coleman of Modesto, California; Leo and Sam McDonnell of Columbus, Montana; and Becky and the late Arlen Sawyer of Bassett, Nebraska.

The American Angus Association® is the nation’s largest beef breed organization, serving more than 22,000 members across the United States, Canada and several other countries.