Genetic Symposium bull stud panel encourages producers to embrace technology
Building a beef program around strong genetics is vital to future and continued profitability for producers, and that’s no bull. To a person, members of an interactive bull stud panel at the recent Genetic Symposium stressed the importance of knowing what you want and how to best get it.
The inaugural genetic symposium, hosted by Iowa Beef Center at Iowa State University, focused on genetics as an integral part of production. Panel members representing five companies shared their expertise and experience as they responded to audience questions. Here are a few key points from that discussion.
Building the herd bull battery is key, especially when artificial insemination can be utilized.
Producers need to consider profitability, both initially and for the long term, when making decisions. Marty Ropp from Allied Genetics put it simply, “A bull must have a purpose or there is no profit.”
As EPD numbers continue to expand, how will producers make genetic decisions?
More specific indexes are being developed and used. Dollar indexes can be used to dial in on an operation’s needs and goals. “Background is crucial, and selection is personal to your footprint,” Ropp said.
Big cattle-buying industry changes will continue.
Over the past five to 10 years, implementation of genomic-enhanced EPDs have been impactful, leading to shifted points of interest for cattle producer. This also has improved accuracy in a time of exponential data changes, and as producers are procuring bulls at young ages.
What will AI be able to provide in the future?
“As we advance general technology, we will continue to see the advancement of genetic selection and precision,” said Aaron Arnett from ST Genetics. Genetic selection and precision are being used in feedlot genetics to provide efficiency and health. Advancements in precision mating since 2019 provide cattle producers with the opportunity to meet their goals and be selective about their genetics.
Panel members also answered questions on various breeds, cattle producer goals, and regionally specific needs that ultimately define the guidelines for a producer when making sire selection decisions. Other panel members were Cody Sankey with Genex, Ben Lohmann with ABS, and Jon Herrick with Select Sires. ISU extension beef specialist Patrick Wall moderated the panel.
