The staff at Bow Valley Genetics.

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

Sean McGrath says that investing in genomic tools can work for producers as long as they plan to use the technology to make changes to their operations.

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


(Photo courtesy Canada Beef Inc.)

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

Dan and Heather Brundige started feeding their purebred bulls a mix of CDC Super Oats and barley last year, with good results.

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

Echo Sand Ranch bulls on display.

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


Blair and Stephanie McIntosh started their Simmental herd in 2003 with six cows, one heifer and a bull.

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