Technology

Consortium outlines challenges, potential for genomics

Applying genomic information or DNA testing to cattle selection is the latest in a long line of methods producers have used to improve the genetic features of livestock over centuries of production. And while the technology already has some practical applications, scientists have just scratched the surface of its overall potential. The National Beef Cattle Evaluation Consortium (NBCEC) has published a white paper titled “Delivering Genomics Technology to the Beef Industry,” summarizing the history, challenges and future outlook for using genomic information toward genetic progress in beef cattle. ... Full story.

KISS genomics

At the Cattle Industry Convention in Nashville, CAB introduces GeneMax, a simplified DNA test for commercial Angus cattle. ... Full story.

Repro technology: Past present and future

Participants in last week’s Range Beef Cow Symposium enjoyed a “peek under the curtain” at potential advancements in reproductive technology from George Seidel, PhD., Colorado State University distinguished professor of biomedical sciences. ... Full story.

DNA test for gain, grade available soon

Value-based tool will help commercial producers better select, manage Angus cattle ... Full story.

MU Thompson Farm field day will report added value of calf genetics

The Thompson Farm Field Day, Sept. 20, will feature talks on “Capturing Value from Genetic Improvements.” The program at the University of Missouri research farm west of Spickard, Mo., starts with registration at 8:30 a.m. ... Full story.

Technology improving feedlot efficiency receives funding in Canada

Canadian Cattlemen reports a Saskatoon, Canada company has received $750,000 in funding to market a genetic tool which tells feedlots how long to feed cattle to achieve optimum weight. ... Full story.

Cattle Breeding: Embryo transfer

Most female breeding cattle produce one calf per year. The use of embryo transfer (ET) allows a producer to quickly multiply the genetics of the top females in the herd in addition to gaining genetic improvement from purchasing the best semen that is available that comes with using artificial insemination (AI). ... Full story.

Fast-forward EPDs, accuracy values

Adding DNA information to the American Angus Association® National Cattle Evaluation helps improve the dependability of expected progeny differences (EPD), which is reflected in increased accuracy values. But the question is, how much? And what’s this improvement worth? ... Full story.

Using sire EPDs in cow-calf production

A large segment of the beef cattle industry is adopting expected progeny differences (EPDs) as a valuable selection tool in improving calf productivity. ... Full story.

Angus VNR: Information drives beef improvement 

Duane Jenkins of Little Robe Angus Ranch near Higgins, Texas, shares his perspective on changes in the cattle information available over the decades. ... Full story.

Would you like to add an extra $30 per head return to your calf crop?

Would you spend a $1 to produce an average of 20 extra pounds and an extra $30 per calf at marketing? ... Full story.

IGENITY now accepting hair samples for BVD-PI testing

IGENITY®, a division of Merial®, announces hair samples are now being accepted for the optional diagnostic test for persistent infections (PI) of the bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) virus. Producers choosing to test for BVD-PI in conjunction with the comprehensive IGENITY profile now have the option to submit tissue or hair samples. ... Full story.