The AICA's dam of distinction program recognizes dams that have consistently weaned calves with above average weaning weights and have been regular producers with 380 days or less calving intervals.
STERLING Dams of Distinction:
Must have produced three calves by the time they are five years old.
DIAMOND Dams of Distinction:
Must have produced seven calves by the time they are nine years old.
For both awards, the calving intervals must be 380 days or less. Also, all calves must have weaning weight ratios of 101 or higher, or the dam's average progeny weaning weight ratio must be 106 or higher for dams with one calf below average for weaning ratio.