Tag Archives seedstock
New opportunities to apply embryo transfer
Embryo transfer may start to grow in commercial herds, in conjunction with other genetic selection tools
When you think of bovine embryo transfer, it’s likely you view it as a technique geared toward the seedstock industry. This advanced reproductive technology is a well-established tool for purebred breeders, and now some embryo transfer practitioners are seeing opportunities for its growth in commercial breeding programs. “Embryo transfer or IVF is not a technology […] Read more
Making genomics work for commercial cattle herds
DNA testing and genomic-enhanced EPDs could contribute to more profitable selection, management and marketing decisions for commercial producers
Although the use of genomics is frequently geared toward the seedstock industry, there are options that could lead to improved profits for commercial beef producers. The use of simple DNA tests and genomic profiles enhancing the accuracy of expected progeny differences (EPDs) can have selection, management and marketing benefits for commercial operations, says Sean McGrath. […] Read more
Beef Breeds Council becomes arm of CCA
Cattle genetics body now a division of Canadian Cattlemen's Association
The market development group representing Canada’s beef cattle seedstock sector has formally merged into the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA). The association on Friday announced the Canadian Beef Breeds Council (CBBC) has officially joined the Beef Cattle Research Council and Canfax among the divisions of the CCA. The move follows a cost-benefit review by an advisory […] Read more
Ranchers talk turkey about purebred bulls
Two seedstock bull producers share how they develop marketable breeding males
There are many decisions which weigh into raising a saleable purebred bull. Do you focus on weight or conditioning? What kind of feeding program do you need to meet that goal? How do you keep them healthy and productive in the bitter winter conditions common across much of the Prairies? Seedstock producers will likely tell […] Read more
Project to boost seedstock production in Newfoundland and Labrador
Research: News Roundup from the December 2019 issue of Canadian Cattlemen
Over the last three years, Newfoundland and Labrador has aimed to expand the availability of local breeding stock through a demonstration project. Most beef consumed in Newfoundland and Labrador comes from other Canadian provinces, with approximately 13.8 million kilograms imported in 2018. In comparison, Newfoundland and Labrador beef producers reported sales of approximately 100,000 kilograms, […] Read more
Using data to drive decisions
The family behind Echo Sand Ranching and Korova Feeders challenges conventional thinking in seedstock production and sales
Data has always driven herd management decisions for Doug and Helga Price, though their methods for using data have greatly evolved over the years. At one time, they calculated performance data for Echo Sand Ranching on paper. Helga spent long hours working this information to rank the females in their herd. Today, with an easy-to-use […] Read more
Stay balanced
Building a seedstock business from scratch
Anyone who raises cattle knows the work is never done, it just changes with the seasons. Raising breeding stock takes that commitment to another level with registrations, shows, and sale preparations often colliding with the start of a new calving season. Despite all of the extras involved, Blair and Stephanie McIntosh knew from the get-go […] Read more