The truth is simple. Genomic prediction works. However, it is not a magic bean.

Historically, the relative value of traits to the commercial cow-calf sector has been stated as the “10-to-2-to-1 rule of thumb,” where fertility traits are 10 times more important than carcass traits and five times more important than growth traits.

In the past, the process of acquiring a new herd bull likely included the scouring of a local newspaper, visiting a neighbor or attending a nearby auction sale. The bill of sale’s fine print may or may not have detailed the requirements and results of a semen test.

“Genetic improvement” is a term with far-reaching implications, uniquely and individually defined by those in the beef industry.

For over a century, Wendt Ranches has been battling the elements to raise high-quality, yet hardy, cattle to fit the highly specific needs of the coastal rancher.

Cloning allows you to produce an identical twin from a rockstar animal, just born at a later place and time. It allows a producer to reap the benefits of that “once in a lifetime” animal more than once in a lifetime.

The foundations for beef cattle genomic testing began over a century ago, when forward-thinking breed associations started collecting pedigree and phenotypic data on registered animals. Breeders studied pedigrees, aspiring to create matings that would yield more valuable animals with desirable physical traits. 

A dairy producer’s dream and goal is a low-maintenance herd with minimized disease instances, great fertility and longevity. Where can they achieve these results?

Ever wondered how the bulls you work with get a genomic evaluation? It's a detailed process; learn more about it from NAAB geneticist Sophie Eaglen.