New AgSource Report Monitors Inbreeding
Source: AgSource
Genomic testing and sexed semen offer two new ways for dairy producers to accelerate genetic progress in their herds. However, at this rapid pace, how do you know if you are maximizing genetic progress while managing inbreeding? AgSource’s new Genetic Summary Report answers this question and more.
The Genetic Summary Report (GSR) was developed by AgSource to assist producers in monitoring and managing their breeding programs. The first of its kind, the GSR is a four-page analytical tool that examines the genetic makeup within the herd, genetic progress, performance benchmarking, and inbreeding through a combination of 13 tables and graphs. The report’s extensive benchmarks allow producers to measure how well they are doing compared to other herds.
Inbreeding is the hidden thief of your genetic progress. Monitoring your current inbreeding level and risk for future inbreeding is critical to establishing an effective program that manages inbreeding while maximizing genetic progress. The GSR allows you to see a historic trend of inbreeding in your herd, the top 10 most genetically prominent bulls in your herd and a distribution of inbreeding levels in your cows and heifers. This report includes information from genomically tested cows and heifers (if applicable) and is available three times per year to AgSource members who record official animal identification and herd sires. All genetic information is obtained through the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding and is available only to herds enrolled in DHI.
When combined with the AgSource Genetic Selection Guide reports (Cows, Heifers and Progeny), AgSource members and AI representatives have four state-of-the-art tools available to monitor a herd’s genetic program and make the most informed replacement and breeding decisions.
Visit www.agsource.com/GSR to see sample reports and learn more about each of the tables and graphs within. To enroll your herd or ask further questions about the AgSource Genetic Summary or Selection Guide, please e-mail Erin Berger, Associate Vice President Outreach, Training and Sales Support (eberger@agsource.com), or contact customer service at 800-236-4995.
AgSource Cooperative Services provides agricultural and environmental laboratory analysis and management information services to clients located throughout the United States and across the globe. AgSource is a member-owned cooperative and a subsidiary of Cooperative Resources International. Find out more at www.agsource.com.
