For decades, cow-calf producers have immunized young cattle for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) as a service to buyers of feeder cattle and a way to add value to their calf crop.

Bottom line, beef producers are getting more for their money when it comes to genomics. Industry pioneers who have used data from DNA tests to pick bulls and replacement heifers have fully installed genomic selection into their management and production systems and are seeing the benefits.

Recently, a paper was presented at the Beef Improvement Federation symposium and convention about the increasing likelihood our industry will have a DNA test to screen for bovine respiratory disease (BRD) susceptibility and resistance.

Today, dairy farmers have access to a plethora of data about their cattle. Important information can be gleaned from data management systems, DHI records, pedigree information and genomic evaluations.

As the use of genomics has entered mainstream dairy production, lots of attention has been focused on the science, technology, predictability and economics of genomic testing.

Whether you concentrate on developing elite genetics or producing milk for the market, genomic data can be a valuable tool in achieving your goals. In this article, we will examine testing options and how both breeding herds and commercial herds might use those options differently.

With the arrival of lower-cost genomic testing options, an increasing number of registered purebred and commercial producers are using these tools for routine sorting and selection applications. While genomic testing costs have come down, they can still be substantial, and dairymen are searching for the most cost-effective applications of the technology. To address these issues, there are tools and strategies available that can help the producer make a good decision for their unique situation.

Today, many dairy producers are integrating genomic testing into their daily breeding and selection decisions or contemplating doing so. It is remarkable to think that a tissue sample collected from the ear, a hair pulled from the tail switch or a drop of blood spotted onto a card from a day-old calf can get you a genetic evaluation equal to progeny tests on many daughters of sires.

As cattle producers prepare for 2013 production sales – whether as buyers or sellers – one goal remains the same: To receive a clear return on their investment.