Dairy Genetics
Crossbreds are now part of the genetic picture, and new tools are making their evaluations more accurate.
Changing market signals are pushing one Arizona dairy to move away from Jerseys, using IVF embryos to quickly build more Holsteins and reshape the herd for better profitability.
As milk pricing signals shift and Holsteins improve components, some dairies are rethinking the role of Jerseys and adjusting breeding strategies to build cows that better fit today’s market.
After several years of tight replacement numbers, rising use of sexed semen suggests U.S. dairy producers are beginning to slowly rebuild heifer supplies.
The era of the average cow is over. Learn how 2026 genetic innovations are bulletproofing dairy herds against heat stress, rising feed costs and evolving supply chain demands.
Beef-on-dairy has grown and improved rapidly, but challenges in calf care, supply chains and early research remain.
Even after losing a major export market, the U.S. bovine genetics industry bounced back in 2025.
Beef-on-dairy calves are bringing in record prices, giving farms a welcome boost when milk markets are tight.
Acquisition strengthens Zoetis’ leadership in precision animal health by integrating Neogen’s global genomics capabilities, expanding predictive insights and individualized care worldwide.
Beef-on-dairy has rapidly evolved into a major contributor to the U.S. beef supply, reshaping how dairy and beef sectors work together and positioning itself as a lasting force in the marketplace.
Beef-on-dairy steers need better fiber than conventional cattle to perform their best.
Cornell University’s Daryl Nydam explores balancing short-term beef-on-dairy profits with the three-year investment of replacement heifers to ensure long-term herd efficiency and sustainable management flexibility.
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The outlook for 2026 is one of cautious optimism anchored by structural evolution. The U.S. dairy industry is no longer just a milk business; it is a component and beef business supported by high-tech processing and sophisticated risk management tools.
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With their recent accolade of being named the 2026 IDFA’s Innovative Dairy Farmer of the Year award winner, the Waddell family showcases what it truly means to be modern dairy producers.
The next phase of beef-on-dairy is all about creating a reliable, efficient supply chain.
When replacement heifers are limited, every pregnancy counts.
Nestled in South America, Lechera Protea Dairy masterfully blends a rich heritage with pioneering innovation, transforming from modest 1975 ambitions into a high-tech, high-output operation.
As the dairy industry navigates the future, it’s clear using a combination of innovation, consumer engagement and sustainable practices will be pivotal.
By directing breeding and mating decisions toward specific traits, we can cultivate more sustainable cows.
How this California operation is turning genetics and data into profits by raising higher performing beef-on-dairy calves with its own Angus bulls.
Through remarkable advancements in genetic testing and data-driven strategies, McCarty Family Farms are setting new standards in productivity, quality and sustainability.
Marshall shares how technology and collaboration can help beef and dairy producers raise more consistent, high-value cattle.
“We have different dairy farms, we have different preferences and we have these great new technologies and tools that let us filter for the traits we want,” says producer Kristen Metcalf. “Why not leave them as long as the data is there?”
Dave Thorbahn’s life work exemplifies leadership, innovation and dedication to industry improvements, making him a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious award.
Alternative revenue sources are becoming more and more common to help producers financially stay afloat. The goal moving forward is clear: striking a delicate balance that ensures longevity and relevance in an ever-changing industry.
Launching in August, the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding’s new Milking Speed PTA offers U.S. producers an objective, high-heritability tool to select for faster-milking cows.
As dairy producers increasingly use beef semen to capitalize on calf value, longer gestation lengths are straining pre-fresh pens, pushing the industry to rethink cow flow, facilities, and future genetics.