Genetic Selection In A DNA World
US - Technology is changing many things in life, including how to select cattle.
10 November 2010
1 minute read
“The list of traits producers use in selection decisions is growing as is the accuracy of the information used,” said Sandy Johnson, Kansas State University Research and Extension livestock specialist in Colby, Kansas.
“Knowing when to start applying some of the available technology and when to wait can be confusing,” she said.
Genetic selection of cattle in a DNA world is the focus of a program to be held December 15, 2010 at 10 am, at the AmericaInn in Russell, Kansas. This programme is designed to help producers understand the issues and make better decisions about the expanding list of selection tools, Johnson said.
The programme will begin with K-State Research and Extension’s Jennifer Bormann, assistant professor of beef cattle breeding and genetics, covering basic concepts and terminology that will serve as the foundation for the day’s discussion. Dan Moser, also a beef cattle geneticist with K-State, will look at genomic testing and understanding the contribution genomic information can make in selection.
As feed costs rise, so does interest in selection for feed efficiency. Mike MacNeil, research geneticist with USDA Agricultural Research Service in Miles City, Montana, will look at the challenges and possible solutions to selection for feed efficiency. Also, a panel of commercial producers will share what they need from seedstock providers to reach their genetic goals.
Registration cost is $50 for the first person and $40 for the second person from the same operation if received by Dec. 8th. Registration is available online at www.KSUBeef.org or by contacting 785-462-6281. The program is sponsored by K-State Research and Extension, Igenity and Pfizer Animal Genetics.
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