Using Genomics as a Decision-Making Tool for Commercial Replacement Heifers
Extension Education
Kim Kester
Regional Livestock Educator
University of Wisconsin - Madison
Darlington
Abstract
Genomic testing can save beef producers time and money when deciding which heifers to retain within their herd, especially for commercial herds where in-depth sire and dam data may not be available. Genomic reports can be difficult to understand. The Regional Livestock Educator (RLE) developed a publication that explained the benefits of using genomics technology in commercial beef herds and provided a comparison of two commercial heifers with step-by-step interpretation of their respective genomic reports. The publication was also adapted into a shorter article for the Wisconsin Agriculturist magazine, where the benefits of genomics were explained. In order to generate real-world data for the publication, the RLE worked with the station superintendent at the UW-Madison Lancaster Agricultural Research Station to collect hair follicle samples from 11 replacement heifers in the UW beef herd. The RLE also photographed all heifers to demonstrate how physical appearance (phenotype) does not always align with genetic merit (genotype), reiterating the value of genomics for replacement decisions. Based on genomic results, the RLE selected the top and bottom animal from the group to compare in the publication and magazine article. The publication and overall concept of using genomics as a selection tool were conveyed to producers via face-to-face workshops, webinar, farm visits, websites, social media, print, and radio. There were 541 direct interactions with the content and an additional 515,000 potential audience reach due to radio broadcast and print circulation. The information generated dialogue amongst producers about using genomics technology in their operations, and even prompted producers to call the RLE with questions about genomics for their herd.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. If NOT selected as a State winner, it will not be displayed at the AM/PIC and the abstract will not be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: Kim Kester, Bill Halfman
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Kester, K. Regional Livestock Educator, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, 53530
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Halfman, B. Beef Outreach Specialist, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Wisconsin, 54729