Three Steps to Superior Genetics in Your Herd

Step 1: The dam represents thestarting point or reference from which the improvement being made will be measured. For the dairyman, accurate record keeping on the pedigree is essential so the genetics behind each animal can be part of the equation. This is the ID part that needs to be done and it is critical to have all the facts at that stage prior to making a decision on what mating bulls should be used.

Step 2: The analysis will lead to the identification of the superior genetics in the herd as well as what traits need improvement. Herd goals and breeding philosophy must be clearly defined as this will influence the progeny results as well. Finally, the phenotype of the animal will bring more information to the process.

Step 3: Once we know which animals are the superior ones and what are the weaknesses in the herd, then we can choose mating sires to address the improvement we want to bring to the herd thus optimizing the results. Too often in the industry we see mating recommendations being made without analyzing all the facts – If we do not know accurately where we start, how can we optimize genetic gain? In other words, if we do not know the profile of the animals, how can we choose bulls that will address specific concerns or issues? A mating program should not just make a mating recommendation. It has to make the best mating recommendation.

Another step that is important in the process is the quality control procedure to ensure the mating program is indeed bringing the desired improvement and at what level. If no measurements are done, it is impossible to verify “what” and “how much”. If you can not measure it, you can not manage it. The industry is changing rapidly – new traits are being added and new technology such as advance gender sorted semen are being introduced to make dairyman more profitable. Regardless of the new additions brought in, Alta’s mating program AltaMate has been built with the only correct approach to optimize mating results

1) a careful analysis of all the facts leading to identification of superior genetics and improvements to be made to meet herd goals and

2) appropriate mating sire selection to maximize genetic gain. Once the core process is well defined in the mating program, addition of new traits in the mating routine is then made easy.

AltaMate is constantly being updated to bring you the latest additions that will help you to make your business more profitable – regardless of where your dairy operation is located in the world.

The Alta Mate Way!

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Posted Jun 26th

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