Archive for A.I. Industry – Page 3

New Genetic Leaders at IPS

The April sire summaries surfaced new genetic leaders at International Protein Sires (IPS). “Through the recent sire summaries, we are excited with these new Holstein genetic leaders. Trends around the world show an increased demand for sires identified as A2A2 along with polled genetics. These new leaders at IPS fulfill these requirements. More significantly, these genetic leaders support our objective of “Breeding Cows, Not Numbers,” said Ron Sersland, President, and CEO.

566HO1354 MAKE PEACE is the newest IPS leader at +3036 GTPI. MAKE PEACE is a member of the Holstein Association’s Top 100 GTPI Genomic Sires. Among his prestigious Top 100 peers, MAKE PEACE transmits a rare combination with a minimum +1,355 lbs. milk, +1.51 type, +0.7 DPR. He is also the lowest for EFI% at 15. In addition, MAKE PEACE excels in components, at +100 lbs. (+.16%) fat and +56 lbs. (+.05%) protein. These qualities are bolstered with 2.2% calving ease, 2.69 somatic cell score, +6.2 productive life and +1021 NM$. A qualifying pedigree, MAKE PEACE is sired by Fortnite from a promising young daughter of Renegade.

566HO1352 SHOWBIZ enters the IPS lineup at +2995 GTPI. This classy young sire upholds the IPS tradition of high components; +95 lbs. (+.22%) fat and + 44 lbs. (+.06%) protein. Performance comes in at a sterling +850 lbs. milk. SHOWBIZ is also solid for type across the board; +1.58 type, +1.71 UDC, along with +1.40 FLC. Additional traits include 6.1 productive life and 2.4% calving ease. For the followers of aAa, SHOWBIZ is identified, 462513. Sired by Logistics, SHOWBIZ is from an up and coming daughter of Future. His impressive cow family traces to the breed elite Rudolph daughter, Westwood-HC Rudy Missy (EX-92-GMD).

566HO1351 EASY-OFF PP RC is the #1 Red Carrier GTPI homozygous polled Holstein at +2713 GTPI. This standing makes EASY-OFF PP RC a high demand sire worldwide. His name says it all – EASY-OFF for complete horn removal. EASY-OFF PP RC has superior performance credentials: +938 lbs. milk, +68 lbs. (+.11%) fat, and +44 lbs. (+.05%) protein. These traits are complemented by +1.09 type, and +1.52 UDC. EASY-OFF PP RC is identified as A2A2 and 2.3% calving ease. His analysis code assigned by aAa is 516342, rare attributes in the Holstein breed. EASY-OFF PP RC is a Boeing son from a Very-Good two-year-old daughter of Riveting. His impressive cow family also traces to the elite Rudolph daughter, Westwood-HC Rudy Missy (EX-92-GMD).

566HO1337 BY THE WAY-RED PP continues in the spotlight at +2602 GTPI. This marks the sixth consecutive sire summary where he is the #1 homozygous polled Red & White Holstein. BY THE WAY-RED PP offers the desirable balance between superior performance and quality type. At +712 lbs. milk, BY THE WAY-RED PP also improves component test; +.03% fat and +.05% protein. His notable type traits are +1.57 type and +1.23 UDC. Sired by Webster-P, BY THE WAY-RED PP is from a Very Good-87 two-year-old daughter of Jax-P. And he descends from a cow family with highly classified cows, possessing high component test.

These quality leaders add genetic power to the IPS Holstein sire lineup. Their injection into any herd will assure long lasting high performing dairy cattle. IPS semen is available throughout North America and around the world from company employees and independent distributors. Located in Rock Springs, Wisconsin, you may obtain additional information about IPS through their website, www.ipssires.com or by calling toll free: 1.800.542.7593

Sarah Retherford Awarded 2022 NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship

The National Association of Animal Breeders is pleased to announce Sarah Retherford has been selected to receive the 2022  NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship Award.

Sarah is the fourth recipient of the NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship and impressed the selection committee with her enthusiasm for male bovine reproductive physiology. Sarah earned her Bachelor of Science in Animal and Veterinary Science from The University of Wyoming in May 2021. She will pursue her graduate degree focused on improving reproductive efficiency in cattle through understanding the role of the seminal plasma microbiome on sperm viability, function, and fertility.  Sarah will continue her MS program at the University of Wyoming under the guidance of Dr. Jeremy Block.

Sarah became involved in agriculture at an early age when her family moved to Wyoming.  Her desire to pursue a career in agriculture evolved from her involvement in 4-H, FFA, rodeo, working on ranches or farms, owning and caring for her own horses and working at a local tack store.  These experiences provided the foundation for her approach to life, academics, and her career pursuits.   Following graduation from high school, Sarah enrolled at the University of Wyoming and majored in Animal and Veterinary Science.  After completing a class in reproductive physiology, she began working in Dr. Block’s laboratory as an undergraduate and continued working in the lab following graduation.  She has gained valuable skills including in vitro fertilization, embryo multiplication and endometrial cell culture and has been involved in hands-on research projects involving semen collection, cryopreservation, estrous synchronization, embryo transfer as well as laparoscopic artificial insemination. 

Тhе NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship is а unique opportunity for individuals planning to pursue а career in the bovine genetic improvement industry to earn а Master of Science degree in bovine genetics or bovine male reproduction physiology. The fellowship was established to develop talent with the technical and management competencies as needed by the future cattle industry. As such, the award is intended for individuals who have long term aspirations in the genetic improvement industry as exemplified by Dr. Gordon Doak, who dedicated 42 years to developing NAAB programs. “Given Sarah’s passion for research and her experience in Dr. Block’s reproductive physiology lab, she has a good foundation and understanding of the skills required to conduct meaningful research” states Jay Weiker, President and  СЕО of NAAB. “Sarah represents the caliber of student that we seek and we are especially pleased that she has interest in researching male bovine reproduction related to fertility.  This is a field of study that can use much more research.”                                                             

NAAB is the national trade association for artificial insemination businesses. NAAB members  account for about 95% of dairy and beef semen sold in the USA and market semen to more than 100 countries around the world.

New Select Sires’ graduates emphasize health traits for daughter longevity

By increasing the average productive life of cows in the herd from 2.5 lactations per cow to 3.33 lactations per cow, dairy owners can expect to generate an average of $45 in extra profit per cow per year, according to research from dairy genetics and economics researchers Dr. Chad Dechow and Dr. Albert DeVries. With this research and other industry practices in mind, Select Sires Inc. is focusing on health and wellness traits that make the greatest economic impact on dairy farms. Herds can rely on Select Sires, Accelerated Genetics and GenerVations sire lineups to create healthy, productive daughters. Fourteen Holsteins, two Jerseys and one Brown Swiss sire graduated to daughter-proven status and joined these lineups following the April sire summaries. 

 

Holstein Highlights

  • Herd Health Profit Dollars (HHP$) is designed to achieve greater longevity in the herd. The new class of graduates includes five sires above +900 HHP$, with 7HO14578 FOXCATCHER (+1,044), 14HO14636 TRY ME (+1,028) and 7HO14436 BIG DOLLARS (+985) leading the list. BIG DOLLARS (+1,208 DWP$®), 7HO14329 EMINENT (+1,113) and 14HO14587 HARLOW (+1,026) rank among the industry’s best for Zoetis’ Dairy Wellness Profit Index®, another tool for herds focused on health and wellness.
  • Because mastitis is the most common clinical disease reported in dairy cows and cited as the third most prevalent reason for culling in commercial dairy herds, Select Sires developed the innovative Mastitis ResistantPRO designation. The green Mastitis ResistantPRO icon in Select Sires’ directories and on the website identifies sires that excel in multiple indicators of mastitis resistance. FOXCATCHER, TRY ME, BIG DOLLARS, EMINENT, HARLOW, 14HO14464 REEVE-RED and 250HO14605 TROPIC are included in the group of 11 new Holstein graduates that qualify for the designation.
  • New daughter-proven leaders for Sire Conception Rate include 7HO14132 LIBERTY-P (+3.7 SCR), EMINENT (+3.0) and HARLOW (+2.7). Daughter Pregnancy Rate (DPR) leaders are EMINENT (+2.8), TRY ME (+2.4) and FOXCATCHER (+1.6).
  • Four of the new graduates rank within the industry’s top-50 sires for GTPI® with FOXCATCHER making his debut in the top-10 at +2902. Other GTPI leaders include 7HO14732 MERIDIAN (+2869), HARLOW (+2856) and TRY ME (+2852).
  • LIBERTY-P debuts as a proven Polled sire and an SCR superstar (+3.7), with balanced Type, A2A2 Beta-Casein and BB Kappa-Casein.
  • The massively popular 7HO14477 WARRIOR-RED graduated and ranks as the No. 1 proven PTAT Red sire at +3.59. Field reports say his milking daughters are standouts in the barn and the showring. 250HO14579 HANCOCK earned his graduation cap with 254 daughters in 125 herds confirming his customer satisfaction status. As the first 250HO12961 DOC son with milking daughters, HANCOCK offers elite Type (+3.60 PTAT) and milk production (+1,275 PTAM). These two Showcase sires also carry the Mastitis ResistantPRO designation and are available with gender SELECTED semen.
  • For production power and high components, farmers should look to BIG DOLLARS (+2,182 PTAM, +127 CFP), 7HO14316 MARKSMAN (+1,690, +134) and FOXCATCHER (+1,481, +142).
  • In addition to WARRIOR-RED, farmers interested in the Red market will be excited for new graduates 250HO14465 RONALD, 7HO14460 CROWN-RED and REEVE-RED. Previously a popular young sire, RONALD is a unique addition as a Red Carrier backed by 12 Excellent dams. CROWN-RED is from a different branch of the Apple tree and one of the highest new Red & Whites for GTPI at +2562. REEVE-RED hails from the Roxy family and combines positive components with a pleasing linear profile and positive fertility.

 

Jersey Highlights

  • 7JE1726 STARLORD graduates as the No. 1 Craze son in the world. He offers balanced production with +1.8 DPR, +2.0 Livability, A2A2 Beta-Casein and BB Kappa-Casein. He qualifies for Mastitis ResistantPRO, RobotPRO® and FeedPRO® designations.
  • 14JE1712 JX BUTKUS {4} has a unique pedigree and combines valuable daughter fertility (+0.9 DPR) and Productive Life (+4.0) with A2A2 Beta-Casein and BB Kappa-Casein.  
  • Both Jersey graduates are available with gender SELECTED semen.

 

Brown Swiss Highlights

  • Showcase favorite, 7BS905 RAMPAGE, is creating stylish heifers that calve with outstanding mammary systems. He is tremendous for sire fertility and qualifies for the Elite Sexed Fertility designation based on the field performance of his gender SELECTED semen.

 

For more information about individual sires, please visit www.selectsires.com and use the new Advanced Sire Search to locate and sort sires that match your genetic goals. To access sires from the palm of your hand, download Select Sires Mobile from your app store today!

 

Based in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc., is the largest global A.I. cooperative and is comprised of six farmer-owned and -controlled local organizations in the United States. As the industry leader, it provides highly fertile semen, as well as excellence in service and programs to supply dairy and beef producers with the world’s best genetics.

Ultraplus™ – New Gender-sorted Semen Technology

Sexing Technologies®, the industry leader in sorted semen technology, is pleased to announce Ultraplus™. A new gender-sorted semen technology, adding the most innovative improvement to the sorting process, Ultraplus™ results in the highest Conception Rates ever seen before in the dairy industry. Available at 90 plus percent of desired gender from Sexing Technologies®, Ultraplus™ is poised to meet the growing demand for gender-sorted semen which has doubled in the global usage over the past five years.

“Ultraplus™ represents the next tier in our continued commitment to bringing the most reliable, technology-driven solutions to the industry,” says Juan Moreno, Sexing Technologies® Chief Executive Officer. “It goes FURTHER BEYOND our original semen sorting technology to bring the highest Conception Rates in the history of this product to help our customers meet their profitability and sustainability goals.”

This new gender-sorted product offering has a 3 percent fertility increase over Sexing Technologies®’ SexedULTRA 4M®. There are three years of laboratory research and development behind Ultraplus™ and the increase in fertility is based on field data collected from 72 farms, 52 different sires and over 15,000 inseminations of lactating cows. This data confirms that the improved Ultraplus™ is officially the highest Conception Rate gender-sorted semen at 14% rate gain over the initial XY marketable semen sorting technology available since 2005 from Sexing Technologies®.

Since gender-sorted semen hit the market, Sexing Technologies® has been at the forefront of the technology and in constant search of ways to improve the process and ultimately, the results for farmers. The products so far have been SexedULTRA® with 8 percent fertility increase over the original, then SexedULTRA 4M® with another 3 percent fertility increase and today, there is Ultraplus™ with an additional 3 percent improvement in Conception Rate.

The Sexing Technologies® commitment to improvement has led to the development of Ultraplus™, the highest fertility gender-sorted semen in the world. This increase in fertility was achieved by further refining the Sexing Technologies® revolutionary sorting process. Ultraplus™ is ready to meet the growing demand of gender-sorted semen, a trend that has been gaining momentum globally in the past four years in the evolving dairy industry.

With 44 owned and licensed labs in 19 countries, Sexing Technologies® is the pioneer in gender-sorted dairy and beef semen and provides over 90 percent of all sorted semen around the globe. With these resources, Sexing Technologies® strives to serve and assist farmers in achieving all aspect of their genetic goals while bringing profitability and sustainability to the dairy and beef industries.

Select Sires’ LIONEL leads multiple industry indexes

Sire summary results put 7HO14454 LIONEL among the breed’s best sires for Net Merit (+1,252 NM$), GTPI® (+3135), Herd Health Profit Dollars (+1,195 HHP$) and Dairy Wellness Profit Index® (+1,333 DWP$®). With the April updates, LIONEL added 1,200 daughters from 75 herds to his proof, improving his reliability and dominance within the breed.

“LIONEL daughters have a tremendous will to milk and come in a commercially friendly package—designed for the modern dairyman,” said Kevin Jorgensen, senior sire analyst.

Farmers can expect healthier, longer-living and highly productive daughters from LIONEL. His pedigree reads 7HO12788 FRAZZLED x 7HO12165 MONTROSS x 7HO11351 SUPERSIRE and he boasts production power. LIONEL’s +3,397 Milk and +253 Combined Fat and Protein (CFP) will add pounds to the bulk tank and dollars to the bottom line. To create your next generation of herd leaders, LIONEL is available in genderSELECTEDsemen. For more information about LIONEL, visit www.selectsires.com/discover/lionel.

Based in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc., is the largest global A.I. cooperative and is comprised of six farmer-owned and -controlled local organizations in the United States. As the industry leader, it provides highly fertile semen, as well as excellence in service and programs to supply dairy and beef producers with the world’s best genetics.

 

Semex & Boviteq Announce Collaboration With Ferme Jacobs

Semex and Boviteq, are excited to announce a partnership started in the Fall of 2021 with world-renown breeders Ferme Jacobs of Cap-Santé, Quebec.

Ferme Jacobs is shifting much of their milk production herd to a state-of-the-art robotic facility for 300+ cows. Being focused on genetic improvement, Semex and Boviteq are pleased to team up with them, utilizing Semex solutions such as Elevate® genomic testing and IVF services from Boviteq. Together, we’re developing a genetic strategy that maximizes genetic gain, producing elite male and female calves, as well as overall herd genetic improvement to meet their future growth strategies.

“We are so pleased to be working more closely with Ferme Jacobs,” said Brad Sayles, Semex Chief Operating Officer. “They’re working hard to invest in their breeding program to not only develop their famous show herd, but also to develop productive, healthy cows that work well in modern management environments. They’re extremely passionate breeders, and excellent ambassadors for the dairy industry, so assisting them in their genetic strategy to reach these goals is certainly an opportunity we’re excited about. Thierry Laberge, Product Development Specialist as well as Semex’s entire genetic team and Pier-Olivier Lehoux, Ciaq Consulting Representative who will work with them to establish objectives, utilizing Semex sires to produce bulls for Semex and elite females for themselves.”

“Additionally, they will be utilizing Boviteq’s world-leading embryo production platform and IVF technologies to maximize embryo production and reproductive performance,” says Sayles.

ELITEST – PHÖNIX Partnership

After intensive preliminary talks between representatives of the French insemination cooperative Élitest and the partners of the PhönixGroup, an agreement has now been reached that regulates the intensive cooperation in the breeding area over the next few years. The Élitest cooperative is aiming for full membership in the PhönixGroup and will be integrated into the joint work of the Phönix partnership in several steps in 2022 and 2023.

The work area of ​​Élitest borders directly on the breeding areas of the Phoenix partners Rinder-Union West eG and Rinderunion Baden-Württemberg eV and thus rounds off the Phoenix work area. Élitest stands for cooperative principles and is structured in a similar way to a German cooperative. Last year, the Élitest cooperative carried out more than 200,000 first inseminations, primarily of the Holstein breed. After completion of the integration phase, Élitest will become the seventh cooperation partner of the PhönixGroup.

We are convinced that this expansion will better meet the major challenges currently facing the entire cattle breeding industry.

Read press release here

The Latest Sign of Dairy Inflation Is Tanking Sales of Semen

Higher prices for dairy products could be coming, and falling sales of semen from dairy bulls are telling the story.

The market for dairy semen sales has tanked to a 17-year low, with sales volumes dropping by 6.7% last year, according to National Association of Animal Breeders data. It’s because American dairy farmers don’t want as many milking cows — they’re buying semen from beef cattle and raising more animals for meat instead, because it’s more profitable. Right now, dairies are struggling to make money as everything from feed prices to labor and energy costs skyrocket.

Smaller dairy cow herds means less milk output, and for consumers, that could signal higher butter and cheese prices could be on the horizon. The U.S. Department of Agriculture just last week raised price forecasts for cheese, butter, nonfat dry milk and whey on strong demand and dwindling production expectations. Inflation is already rising at its fastest pace since 1982, with the cost of food and gasoline at the forefront.

“The number of dairy heifers should be reducing” as farmers breed more beef cows, said Matt Gould, editor of the Dairy Market Analyst. 

 

Got Milk?

U.S. sales of domestic dairy cow semen dwindle

Source: National Association of Animal Breeders

Source: Bloomberg

Nineteen Students Receive a Total of $19,500 in 2022 Premier Select Sires Scholarships

Premier Select Sires awarded a total of $19,500 to 19 college students through the 2022 Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program. Two students received $2,500 scholarships through the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship and the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Seventeen other students received scholarships of $750 to $1,500 in value.

Allen Graulich of Argus Acres, LLC, a 500-cow Registered Holstein operation in Cobleskill, N.Y., is the son of David and Suzanne Graulich. Allen received the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Allen is a student at Cornell University studying Animal Science with a dairy concentration, and after graduation he plans to begin working at Riverview, LLP in Morris, Minn. He looks forward to learning new techniques from a different perspective.

Ryan Allen of Glen Toctin Farm, a 120-cow Registered Holstein operation in Jefferson, Md., is the son of Michael and Johanna Allen. Ryan received the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship. Ryan is a student at Penn State University studying Animal Science. After graduation, Ryan plans to pursue a career in the A.I. industry. He hopes to translate his passion for dairy genetics into a role focusing on the procurement and advancement of the best possible genetics. He also plans to stay involved on his home farm.

Hannah Diehl of Musser Run Jerseys, a 200-cow Jersey operation in McVeytown, Pa., is the daughter of Joseph and Kristin Diehl. Hannah is a student at Penn State University studying Animal Science. After graduation, Hannah plans to work as a herd manager or assistant herd manager to grow her skills on a farm that is different from her home farm. She then hopes to return to her family’s farm and use her new skills and experience while expanding the farm and implementing new technologies.

Erin Armitage of Clover Stone Farm, a 50-head dairy heifer and beef cattle operation in Greenwich, N.Y., is the daughter of Kevin and Lee-Ann Armitage. Erin is a student at SUNY Morrisville studying Dairy Science and Agribusiness. After completing her Associate’s Degree in Dairy Science and Agribusiness, Erin plans on transferring to Virginia Tech to complete her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees. She then hopes to open an agribusiness marketing and consulting firm to help other agricultural businesses make plans for the future and improve their operations. She also hopes to grow her herd of dairy show cattle and allow youth to lease them so they can have the same opportunities she did in the agricultural industry.

Laurel Gray of Grayhouse Farms, a 1,100-cow dairy operation in Stony Point, N.C., is the daughter of Andy and Amy Gray. Laurel is a student at North Carolina State University studying Agricultural Business Management. After graduation, Laurel plans to return home and work on her family’s dairy farm. Her goals include helping with finances, assisting with field work, working with calves and heifers, helping with the family’s hunting business, and expanding her small herd of beef cattle.

Regan Jackson of Waverly Farm, a 70-cow and 200-heifer dairy operation in Clearbrook, Va., is the daughter of Kevin and Laura Jackson. Regan is a senior at Clarke County High school and plans to attend Louisiana State University to study Nutrition and Food Science. After receiving her undergraduate degree, Regan plans to continue her education to become a doctor. As a doctor, she will use her medical position and agricultural background to serve as a spokesperson providing factual information on dairy products and their nutritional benefits.

George Sebright of Farview Holsteins, a 60-cow Registered Holstein operation in East Berlin, Pa., is the son of Robby and Jayne Sebright. George is a student at Virginia Tech studying Dairy Science. After graduation, George hopes to work in the A.I. industry, either working with mating programs, working in sales, or working with a sire analyst team. He wants to help dairy producers achieve genetic goals while improving the breeds that define the future of the dairy industry. He also hopes to continue his family’s tradition of dairying.

Jordan Anderson of Cabaret Cattle Company, a 25-head dairy calf and heifer operation in Centre Hall, Pa., is the daughter of Don and Angela Anderson. Jordan is currently serving as a Pennsylvania state FFA officer and will begin studying Agriculture Communications at the University of Wyoming next year. After graduation, she plans to pursue a career advocating for the industry she loves and helping to give our hardworking farmers a voice that reaches consumers. She is also interested in working in the marketing and communications department of an agricultural company.

Glenn Barnes of Maple Knoll Farm, a 320-cow dairy and 30-head beef cattle operation in Lawrenceville, Pa., is the son of Jeffery and Pamela Barnes. Glenn is a senior at Cowanesque Valley High School and plans to attend Oklahoma State University to study Agricultural Engineering. After graduating from college, Glenn plans to return to his family’s dairy farm and become a partner with his father, brother, and uncle. He wants to use his education to make positive changes on the farm, making it a more advanced, modern facility. His degree will provide him with a better understanding of the machines and systems on-farm, and he will be able to service the equipment as needed. Glenn is also working towards using his piloting skills to train and become an aerial application specialist.

Kyle Barnes of Gate House Farms, a 280-cow dairy farm in DeRuyter, N.Y., is the son of Paul and Jerri Barnes. Kyle is a student at Virginia Tech studying Dairy Science. After graduation, Kyle plans to work in the agriculture industry. He would someday like to return to his home farm and begin an expansion process.

Will Coltrane of Coltrane Dairy, LLC, a 600-cow and 700-heifer dairy farm in Pleasant Garden, N.C., is the son of David and Amy Coltrane. Will is a student at the University of Mount Olive studying Agricultural Business and Animal Science. After graduation, Will plans to return to his family’s fourth-generation farm. He plans to continue broadening his scope of the industry, and he hopes to play a part in helping farmers garner the respect they deserve for their dedication and work ethic.

Hayley Daubert of Standard of Excellence Dairy, a 30-cow dairy operation in Dayton, Va., is the daughter of Jeremy and Rebecca Daubert. Hayley is a senior at Turner Ashby High School, and she plans to attend South Dakota State University to study Dairy Science with a Microbiology focus. After graduation from college, Hayley plans to work in a veterinary laboratory to study animal disease. She hopes to help farmers and veterinarians better identify and treat diseases and limit the spread of disease on farms. She also plans to volunteer with a local rescue squad as an EMT. She is especially passionate about helping farm families who experience the unfortunate occurrence of farm accidents. Hayley also plans to continue breeding and raising cattle.

Naomi Diehl of Musser Run Jerseys, a 200-cow Jersey operation in McVeytown, Pa., is the daughter of Joseph and Kristin Diehl. Naomi is a student at Messiah University studying accounting. After graduation, Naomi plans to work as an agriculture accountant. She wants to help farmers manage their finances and learn where they can save money. She would also like to start a creamery at her family farm and promote the dairy industry and the wholesomeness of milk.

Kendal Jenkins of Leona-View Holsteins, a 150-cow Registered Holstein operation in Columbia Crossroads, Pa., is the daughter of James Jenkins. Kendal is a student at Penn State University studying Animal Science. After graduation, Kendal would like to pursue a career as a dairy nutritionist. Through this career, she looks forward to being involved in several aspects of agriculture including animal science, cow care, agronomy, and forage crop management.

Lainey Koval of Koval Brothers Dairy, LLC, a 500-cow Holstein operation in Stillwater, N.Y., is the daughter of Christopher and Jennifer Koval. Lainey is a student at Cornell University studying Agricultural Science. After graduation, Lainey plans to either return to her family farm or enter a field that allows her to work alongside farmers. She has a passion for protecting the nation’s farmland and managing businesses in economically and environmentally sustainable ways.

Chad Patterson of Patterson Farms, Inc., a 300-cow Holstein operation in Chestertown, Md., is the son of Charlie and Sherry Patterson. Chad is a student at Purdue University studying Agriculture Systems Management. After graduation, Chad plans to return to the family farm. He will use what he learned from college to improve the farm and solve problems in an efficient manner.

Paige Peiffer of Boxed-In Acres, an 80-cow Holstein operation in Lebanon, Pa., is the daughter of Ammon and Brenda Peiffer. Paige is a student at Penn State University studying Animal Science. Paige is deciding between several avenues for after graduation. She is interested in applying for vet school, pursuing a career in cattle reproduction or nutrition, or returning to the family farm as the fourth generation. She hopes to make a positive impact on the industry no matter what her career choice.

Salem Sifford of Roseview Cattle Farm and Plessed Rose Dairy Farm, a 40-head Hereford and 25-cow Holstein operation, respectively, in Goldvein, Va. is the daughter of Stephen and Rosemary Sifford. Salem is a senior at Liberty High School, and she plans to attend college to study Animal Science/Pre-Veterinary. After completing her undergraduate degree, Salem hopes to attend veterinary school and pursue a degree as a veterinary pathologist. She feels that this career will give her the opportunity to be involved with finding much needed solutions to better the industry and help producers protect their animals.

Cole Verano is the son of Jose and Tammy Verano. Jose is the manager of JM Larson Inc., a 4,500-cow dairy operation in Okeechobee, Fla. Cole is a student at the University of Florida studying Agriculture Operations Management. After graduation, Cole hopes to work for a dairy farm in southern Florida where he will be able to use his education to help improve the sustainability of dairy farming. He also looks forward to using his marketing and management skills to increase the profitability of dairy farming to ensure that there are plenty of farms for future generations.

The Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program provides financial support to eligible students pursuing agricultural education, and it also provides additional return to the cooperative’s member-owners by supporting the next generation of young people desiring to study and work in the agriculture industry. The Premier Select Sires board of directors has made a commitment to providing money to support this scholarship program on an ongoing annual basis.

Premier Select Sires is a farmer-owned cooperative that serves beef and dairy producers in its 23-state member area. Dedicated to providing its members with all they need to achieve success, Premier provides:

  • Industry-leading genetics from the Select Sires, Accelerated Genetics, and GenerVations brands
  • Effective herd health and management products, as well as artificial insemination supplies
  • Reliable services and programs backed by years of success
  • Knowledgeable industry experts who are easily accessed for consultation, advice, and on-farm assistance

Together with its five sister cooperatives across the United States, Premier owns and controls Select Sires Inc., the world’s most recognized name in bovine genetics.

 

CentralStar scholarship applications due June 1

CentralStar Cooperative, serving dairy and beef producers in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana, is offering seven, $1,000 scholarships this year. Those interested can find the application at www.mycentralstar.com/scholarship. The deadline is June 1, 2022.

Scholarships are available for two types of students. Applicants must be presently enrolled in a four-year college or a one- or two-year technical college or short-course program in an agricultural-related field. Applicants can also be a high-school senior admitted into one of the aforementioned programs. The applicant or their parent(s) must be a stockowner of CentralStar Cooperative. Read the application for additional detail.

CentralStar’s goal of enhancing producer profitability through integrated services is fulfilled by incorporating an array of products and services critical to dairy-and-beef-farm prosperity. CentralStar’s product and service offerings include Accelerated Genetics, GenerVations, and Select Sires genetics; extensive artificial-insemination (A.I.) technician service; genetic, reproduction, and dairy-records consultation; DHI services; diagnostic testing; herd-management products; research and development; and more. CentralStar’s administration and warehouse facilities are located in Lansing, Mich., and Waupun, Wis., with laboratories in Grand Ledge, Mich., and Kaukauna, Wis. For more information, visit CentralStar Cooperative Inc. at www.mycentralstar.com.

 

Premier Select Sires Offers Benefits to Members

Dairy and beef producers face more challenges than ever before as they seek ways to increase efficiency while dealing with labor shortages, growing input costs, economic challenges, and more. While Premier Select Sires is likely best known as a genetic provider, doing business with your local member cooperative opens the door to other benefits that producers may not be aware of—many of which are offered at a discount or included at no charge to semen-purchasing members. Premier has hired additional field staff members to help meet the labor demands seen on member-owner farms, and local representatives are trained and prepared to provide producers with the following:

Industry-Leading Genetics. Premier distributes high-quality genetics from three brands—Select Sires, Accelerated Genetics and GenerVations. The sire team works hard to develop a bull lineup as diverse as the Premier customer base, so that producers across the territory can meet their unique goals. Premier offers daughter-proven sires, genomic young sires, and elite early-release genomic young sires through the NxGEN® program. All semen is backed by research and strict fertility standards.

Herd Management Products. A full line of herd management products exists to either enhance or protect genetic investments and create healthier livestock with stronger immune functions. Heat detection aids and breeding supplies are also available.

Reproductive and Genetic Advising. Select Reproductive Solutions® (SRS®) experts can meet with dairy producers regularly to provide feedback regarding opportunities in the herd, helping producers reach higher pregnancy rates among cows and heifers. Select Mating Service® (SMS®) specialists manage inbreeding and control recessives through pedigree analysis and advanced computer technology. They also help producers create custom indexes and utilize genomic data to improve genetic progress. Experienced Reproductive Services Specialists (RSS) are available to perform breeding services as well.

Genomic Testing. Premier partners with Zoetis, the largest global animal health company, to provide genomic testing to dairy and beef producers. Premier staff can assist with proper sample collection, submission, and interpretation to help producers maximize the benefits of the testing.

Beef on Dairy Programs. The Premier team can help producers right-size herd inventories and increase the value of extra calves to be sold to the beef market. Designated ProfitSOURCE™ sires excel for growth and carcass merit while offering the necessary calving ease and fertility for breeding to dairy animals. SimVitro® HerdFlex™ beef embryos offer a unique alternative to beef on dairy breeding, allowing dairy producers to break into new markets and increase ROI with straight beef calf sales. Premier strives to help producers identify opportunities for marketing the calves that result from these programs.

CowManager®. The CowManager herd monitoring system uses revolutionary technology to track animal health, rumination, and fertility. CowManager gives producers “another set of eyes” on the herd and provides real-time data to a computer, smartphone and/or tablet. Premier staff can help producers implement the system and create a cohesive, efficient breeding program.

Training Opportunities. Many training options are available for farm personnel, including artificial insemination, heat detection, milking, and others. Trainings are offered in both English and Spanish. For those interested in learning to A.I., visit premierselectsires.com/training to register for one of the scheduled courses! 

Liquid Nitrogen Service. No A.I. program can exist without a reliable source of liquid nitrogen for storing semen. Premier Area Sales Managers can service A.I. tanks and provide producers with the genetics they need.

Financial Benefits. For member-owners of Premier, every dollar spent earns them patronage equity. For convenience, members have online access to account details and purchases. Easy-to-understand monthly billing and free credit for 30 days on purchases provides additional benefit.

For more information on the Premier cooperative and how Premier staff can serve you, please visit the Premier website or contact the office (www.premierselectsires.com, 800-227-6417, office@premierselect.com) to get connected with a local representative today.

Sexed straws account for 80% of Ai Services’ dairy semen sales in Northern Ireland

Ai Services (Northern Ireland) Ltd has confirmed that sexed straws now account for 80 per cent of all the company’s dairy semen sales from October 2021 to January 2022.

“Our sexed semen sales have doubled over the past three years. Milk producers are now happy to use sexed bulls on both heifers and cows,” added company breeding services’ manager Ivan Minford.

“Sexed semen provides dairy farmers with the widest range of breeding options. In the first instance it gets around the issue of producing dairy bull calves, which have a very low market value.

“It is also an approach to breeding that allows more beef semen to be used within a herd. In turn, this is adding significantly to the value of the calves that will be sold off farm.

“But the fundamental driver of wanting to use sexed dairy semen in the first place also remains in place: using the technology allows dairy farmers to produce the high quality heifer replacements they need from the lowest possible number of cows.”

According to Ivan, a £75 investment in sexed semen will invariably generate a heifer calf worth between £300 and £500 on the day it is born. These figures are based on the rule-of-thumb assertion that it takes, on average, 1.8 to 2.4 straws of sexed semen to create one pregnancy.

Reflecting on the current breeding per-

formance of dairy cows on farms across Northern Ireland, the Ai Services’ repre-sentative confirmed that the benefits of the excellent grass growing year that was 2021 are still evident.

He explained: “Autumn calving cows were kept on good grass throughout the late summer. As a result, they calved down in good condition and, subsequently, went on to perform tremendously well in the milking parlour.

“An increasing number of dairy farmers are now block calving cows in the early autumn period in order to maximise the value of the winter bonuses on offer from all the milk buyers.

“But it’s critically important that these farmers get their cows back in calf again between 60-100 days post calving.

“The latest indications are that conception rates have been very high over recent weeks with cows settling back in calf well.

“This reflects the excellent management standards being achieved on so many dairy farms right across Northern Ireland.”

According to Ivan, increasing numbers of dairy farmers are now synchronising their heifers.

He commented: “It’s an approach that allows them to calve these animals down within a relatively short period of time.

“Again, sexed semen can be used very effectively within a synchronisation pro-gramme. It also makes sense to use a technician in these circumstances.

“In the first instance, it takes a lot of pressure off the farmer if large numbers of animals have to be inseminated at the same time. And, of course, the improved conception rates achieved by technicians will more than pay for the additional fees incurred.”

Ivan confirmed the growing demand for bulls delivering improved components and improved management traits, including daughter fertility and longevity.

The beginning of February saw Ai Services adding a number of new and exciting bulls to the company’s listing of dairy sires.

These include Peak Altaazura, Peak Alta Rescue and Peak Alta Wheelhouse.

Altaazura has an exceptionally high PLI value of £936, delivering an extra 99.7kg of fat and protein combined per lactation. He is recommended to improve chest and body strength. Altaazura daughters have an excellent rump width and added slope to the rump. He is positive for all management traits.

Rescue combines type, production and health traits in one package. Rescue lowers stature but increases chest and rump width. Daughters will be predominantly black in colour with excellent udders. Rescue is also recommended as a calving ease sire.

Peak Alta Wheelhouse produces strong, robust daughters. They have an excellent rump with lower pin settings. Wheelhouse is a top production and type sire in the one package. He is recommended to increase daughter fertility and longevity.

Source: farmweek.com

Connecterra and ABS Global Announce Agreement to Use AI-Backed Technology to Improve U.S. Dairy Farm Operations

New partnership brings together leaders in dairy farm artificial intelligence and bovine reproductive management to benefit dairies

Connecterra and ABS Global Announce Agreement to Use AI-Backed Technology to Improve U.S. Dairy Farm Operations

Connecterra and ABS Global Announce Agreement to Use AI-Backed Technology
Connecterra and ABS Global Announce Agreement to Use AI-Backed Technology
 
Connecterra and ABS Global Announce Agreement to Use AI-Backed Technology

Amsterdam The Netherlands, Feb. 08, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Dutch-based Connecterra, a global pioneer in using artificial intelligence to deliver insights to dairy farmers, has signed a new agreement with U.S.-based ABS Global, a world leader in bovine genetics and reproduction services.

Beginning in early 2022, ABS will introduce Ida as a digital solution that enables improvements in fertility, health and animal welfare to its customers in Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Iowa, and South Dakota. ABS Trusted Advisors will also gain access to the Ida Enterprise platform, which provides cutting-edge digital collaboration and analytics capabilities to dairy farm partners and suppliers.

“This partnership with ABS will arm farmers and their advisors with Ida’s powerful technology that’s been proven to deliver greater operational efficiencies on U.S. dairies and around the world,” said Yasir Khokhar, CEO of Connecterra. “As the rapid digital transformation of global agricultural continues, our work with ABS is an indication of how technology can empower the industry in nearly every aspect of farming.”

Since 2015, Connecterra has set the gold standard for dairy cattle monitoring and on-farm data analytics with Ida. The platform combines behavior data collected via proprietary collar-mounted sensors with data from herd management systems like BoviSync, Lely Horizon and others, internet-connected farm equipment and third-party sources. Ida then uses artificial intelligence to translate the data into real-time, easy-to-understand insights in the app. Unlike other systems, Ida asks for user in-app feedback to improve the insights. Those 1-2 taps provide additional data that Ida processes with machine-learning algorithms. Ida then becomes smarter, more personalized and more effective for each customer’s herd and operations.

“We see the value in Ida’s artificial intelligence. We are excited to see our customers and ABS Trusted Advisors benefit from it,” shared Darren Peterson, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at ABS. “And we look forward to working with Connecterra to deploy this technology.”

For more information regarding Ida sales, visit ida.io.

About Connecterra

Connecterra is on a mission to empower farmers to increase their productivity while reducing the impact of farming on the planet. The solution is Ida, the intelligent dairy assistant. Ida’s platform uses artificial intelligence to enable farmers, their advisors and other stakeholders to make better decisions that lead to a more efficient, productive and ultimately, sustainable dairy industry. The Amsterdam-based company has teams in the United States and New Zealand, a product presence in 18 countries and partnerships with industry leaders around the globe.

About ABS

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, U.S.A., ABS Global is the world‐leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, artificial insemination technologies, and udder care products. Marketed in more than 70 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since it was founded in 1941. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

Zoetis, CowManager and Select Sires Form Global Collaboration

Zoetis, CowManager® and Select Sires Inc. today announced the launch of a strategic collaboration to integrate genomic tools and predictive sensor systems. The goal of this collaboration is to create value for cattle producers in farm management through better advice supported by more accurate, intelligent cow data. When producers can make efficient, more informed decisions on-farm, they may ultimately achieve better cow health outcomes and business results.

Combining DNA Predictions, Real-time Analytics and Mating in One Convenient Space

Through traits and indexes developed by Zoetis — including the Dairy Wellness Profit Index®(DWP$®) — and CowManager’s ear sensor technology, farmers will have access to accurate information on health, fertility, nutritional insights and location. 

“Many cattle producers are already on the cutting edge of leveraging precision agriculture to sustain and improve their herd,” said Jason Osterstock, Vice President, Precision Animal Health, Zoetis. “The combination of our DNA tools with CowManager’s sensor technology can afford producers the ability to make quicker actionable decisions in real time.”

As part of the collaboration, the team at CowManager will initially work to integrate DNA tool data from Zoetis into the CowManager dashboard to provide access to critical animal information, such as health and fertility events.

“We are beyond proud and look forward to combining forces with these two other industry captains,” said Guus Oostveen, CEO, CowManager. “Together, we strive to conduct in-depth research and tackle agricultural challenges to provide farmers with more in-depth cow data. This can not only help farmers worldwide prepare for the future and increase their herd health — it can also help them to run their businesses more successfully.”

The three-way collaboration also brings industry-leading support and expertise to help producers integrate management solutions to achieve desired outcomes. By combining on-farm analytics and increased reliability in genetic selection, improved herd management can be achieved.

“Our history with both CowManager and Zoetis has been a positive combination for producers, as they use monitoring technology from CowManager as well as genomic testing and the resulting Dairy Wellness traits from Zoetis,” said Todd Kranz, chief development officer, Select Sires Inc. “We look forward to continued cooperation and the resulting benefits for our dairy and beef customers.”

Cattle producers are encouraged to reach out to local Zoetis, Select Sires, or CowManager representatives to stay included in upcoming advancements around this exciting new collaboration.

About Zoetis

As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After 70 years innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide — from livestock farmers to veterinarians and pet owners. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics, and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. A Fortune 500 company, Zoetis generated revenue of $6.7 billion in 2020 with approximately 11,300 employees. For more, visit www.zoetis.com

About CowManager®

CowManager® has revolutionized the world of cow management systems by inventing the active ear tag technology, based on generations of knowledge, science and the drive to improve every day. As a result, thousands of dairymen in over 40 countries rely on CowManager’s user-friendly ear sensor system for an accurate understanding of their cows’ fertility, health and nutrition status.

Visit www.cowmanager.com

About Select Sires Inc

Select Sires Inc. is North America’s largest A.I. organization and is comprised of six farmer-owned-and-controlled cooperatives. As the industry leader, it provides highly fertile semen as well as excellence in service and programs to achieve its basic objective of supplying dairy and beef producers with North America’s best genetics at a reasonable price.
Visit www.selectsires.com

Select Sires’ storied DIAMONDBACK passes away

The famed 7HO12587 Mr D Apple DIAMONDBACK (EX-93) passed away in late January. He was a Doorman son of Ms Delicious Apple-Red-ET (EX-94-2E-EX-MS). In 2021, DIAMONDBACK sired more than 200 new Excellent cows and 465 Very Good two-year-olds in the United States. He sired fierce competitors in many national shows and was awarded Premier Sire of the heifer show at the 2017 World Dairy Expo and Premier Sire of the Red & White Show at the 2021 World Dairy Expo. He was known worldwide for his impressive pedigree and high-type profile. DIAMONDBACK earned his credentials through the success of his many daughters, consistency and time. 

John Erbsen and Diamondback banner

“He was a standard in Select Sires’ Showcase™ program for the last seven years,” said Kevin Jorgensen, Holstein sire analyst. “He sired both Holstein and Red & White champions and Excellent cows from coast to coast and around the world. DIAMONDBACK left an indelible mark on the breed.”

Select Sires thanks John and Connor Erbsen and Mike Deaver of Illinois for their partnership in breeding DIAMONDBACK and offering this tremendous sire to the industry.

Breeder of 7HO9264 Dempsey, Randy Nigh Selected as CentralStar Pioneer Award Recipient

The CentralStar Cooperative board of directors recently announced Randy Nigh of Viroqua, Wis., as the 2021 Pioneer Award recipient. Established in 1977, the Pioneer Award recognizes individuals who, through selfless and dedicated service and leadership, have provided the cooperative and its members greater prosperity.

“Randy was a great asset to the cooperative during the many years he served on the board of directors,” shared Steve Abel, CentralStar board vice president. “His understanding of the business history of the cooperative, along with his great knowledge of genetics, made him a valuable board member.”

A member of the CentralStar Board of Directors for a period of 32 years, Nigh served as president for seven years and vice president for two. Additionally, Nigh was a director on the Select Sires Inc. board and was a member of the Holstein sire committee. Nigh has been actively involved in his community and dairy industry, including roles with National Holstein Association, Vernon County Holstein Association, his local township, and the Viroqua FFA in Viroqua.

A family operation, Nigh, and his brother Robert, own Lirr Farm, a 1,000-acre dairy, beef, and cash-crop farm. Lirr Farm is recognized across the world for being the breeder of 7HO9264 Lirr Drew DEMPSEY, a Select Sires Showcase™ sire. The farm’s passion for registered Holsteins runs deep, and to date, Lirr Farm has earned the Holstein Association’s Progressive Breeder Award for 20 years and the Progressive Genetics Award for 30.

CentralStar Cooperative Inc. was established May 1, 2019, as a result of the merger between NorthStar Cooperative Inc. and East Central/Select Sires. The cooperative’s goal of enhancing producer profitability through integrated services is fulfilled by incorporating an array of products and services critical to dairy- and beef-farm prosperity. CentralStar’s product and service offerings include Accelerated Genetics, GenerVations, and Select Sires genetics; artificial insemination (A.I.) service; genetic, reproduction, and dairy-records consultation; DHI services; diagnostic testing; herd-management products; research and development; and more. CentralStar’s administration and warehouse facilities are in Lansing, Mich., and Waupun, Wis., with laboratories in Grand Ledge, Mich., and Kaukauna, Wis. 

Dairy Lab Services to merge wtih CentralStar Cooperative

For the second time in less than 12 months, CentralStar Cooperative is expanding its DHI and milk-analysis services. On Jan. 25, 2022, the board of directors and delegates of Dairy Lab Services (DLS), a national Dairy Herd Information (DHI) milk-testing association and lab in Dubuque, Iowa, approved merging into CentralStar effective March 1. With this merger, CentralStar Cooperative will become one of the largest DHI organizations in the country, working with more than 1,900 producers and 642,000 cows across the Midwest.

“The merger of DLS into CentralStar is a natural fit for our cooperative, as it aligns with our board of directors’ strategic vision and model of supporting dairy producers with powerful data and diagnostic tools to advance their businesses,” said CentralStar Board President Paul Trierweiler. “We appreciate the trust DLS leadership has placed in us to continue to provide DHI testing and lab services to Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and southwest Wisconsin dairy producers.”

DLS members can expect a smooth transition to CentralStar DHI Services. Both DLS and CentralStar processes records through Dairy Records Management Service (DRMS), so there will be no change in the way producers receive reports or the type of reports they rely on. Additionally, the speed in which producers receive results will be similar, at approximately two days.

In time, sample processing will move from the DLS lab to the CentralStar laboratory in Kaukauna, Wis. Built in 2017, the lab uses state-of-the-art techniques including infrared spectroscopy, flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA), polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and more to process more than 2.3 million samples, annually. Samples can be analyzed for more than a dozen components and characteristics including butterfat, protein, somatic cell count, solids-non-fat, milk urea nitrogen, Johne’s, bovine viral diarrhea, neospora, mastitis, pregnancy, and others.

“As the landscape of the industry continues to change, the board of directors and delegates felt it prudent to merge with CentralStar to take advantage of economies of scale to allow continued access to affordable DHI services,” said DLS General Manager Terry Hopper. “Additionally, this merger provides members access to expanded resources and services, including new diagnostic-=test options, as well as an extensive line of herd-management products, including cow-side tests for somatic cell count and ketosis.”

CentralStar began providing DHI Services in 2000 with the mergers of Michigan DHIA and Fox Valley DHI. Since that time, the cooperative has become the fastest-growing national DHI organization and scores among the best for turnaround time of sample results for like-sized laboratories. CentralStar DHI records are processed through DRMS, which processes more herds and cows across the U.S. than any other dairy-records processing center. CentralStar pioneered the development of milk diagnostics on DHI samples. In 2000, CentralStar began providing diagnostic services with the development of the Johne’s milk ELISA. In 2011, CentralStar worked in collaboration with IDEXX to validate the milk-pregnancy test, which is now performed on more than 5 million samples in North America, annually. More recently, CentralStar researchers have developed diagnostic tests for bovine leukosis virus, A2, and mastitis organisms. 

CRV and VHLGenetics consolidate cooperation in DNA testing

Herd improvement organisation CRV and VHLGenetics have signed a new, three-year cooperation contract. The scope of this cooperation includes genotyping of animals and embryos. CRV and VHLGenetics also see opportunities in the joint development of new commercial services based on DNA analysis.

International growth HerdOptimizer

The organisations have already cooperated intensively during the past three years. For example, VHLGenetics carries out the genomic tests on hair samples and ear-notches for CRV. These samples are increasingly sent from abroad. VHLGenetics is also responsible for genotyping embryos produced by the CRV breeding programme.

“VHLGenetics represents an important partner in our drive to achieve further international growth for our HerdOptimizer programme. This tool is used for female genomic testing,” says Tjebbe Huybrechts, Global Director Data at CRV. “We currently already process samples submitted from ten different countries and see opportunities ahead to consolidate and jointly expand our global services in the next few years,” he says.

Bringing DNA technology to everyday practice

“CRV makes an interesting partner for VHLGenetics as a way of bringing DNA technology to everyday practice,” says Daniel Mioch, CEO of VHLGenetics. “Together we are investigating the potential for introducing new applications commercially,” he explains.

Mioch mentions genotyping of animals that carry the A2A2 variant of the beta-casein protein as a practical example. Collaboration between CRV and VHLGenetics will enable immediate certification of this A2A2 genotyping in the future, enabling dairy farmers to easily meet the requirements of companies that buy A2A2 milk.

Access to the latest techniques

“By working with CRV, we can scale up the DNA technology we have developed and make it more widely available. And that will facilitate further progress in innovation,” says Daniel Mioch of VHLGenetics.

“This cooperation with VHLGenetics means we can offer national and international dairy farmers immediate access to the very latest DNA techniques. And support them in their efforts to improve and increase the sustainability of their herd management practice,” explains Tjebbe Huybrechts of CRV.

A.I. Stakeholders Petition U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

On January 13, 2022, Select Sires, Semex, URUS, and STgenetics, all major stakeholders in the cattle genetics industry, joined together to petition the United States Patent and Trademark Office to cancel two patents owned by ABS Global, a division of Genus plc. The challenged patents, U.S. Patent Nos. 10,975,351 and 10,982,187, purport to claim exclusive patent rights in a cow and a bull, respectively, bred by ABS, their eggs or sperm, any first-generation offspring from those two animals, and any eggs or sperm produced by those offspring. In other words, ABS’s patents not only claim that ABS invented these animals and their attributes, but they also claim as ABS’s invention all potential progeny of the original two animals.

Believing ABS’s unprecedented steps to claim patent rights in its animals is inconsistent with U.S. law and harmful to farmers, breeders, and the dairy and beef industries overall, the petitioning companies have asked the Patent Office to review and invalidate the claims of these two patents. The companies have presented several arguments as to why the Patent Office should cancel the claims, including that the patents are directed to products of nature that are not eligible for patent protection, that the patents are not sufficiently new and are obvious variations of conventional selective breeding, and that the patents fail to adequately describe and enable the claims.

“While Select Sires, Semex, URUS and STgenetics sometimes compete in the marketplace, we are united in our belief that ABS’s attempt to patent the natural products of selective breeding is bad for the public and the cattle industries and goes beyond what the U.S. patent laws allow,” said David Thorbahn, president and CEO of Select Sires, Inc. The petitioners look forward to the Patent Office taking up their challenge in the coming months.

Randy Nigh Selected CentralStar Pioneer Award Recipient

The CentralStar Cooperative board of directors recently announced Randy Nigh of Viroqua, Wis., as the 2021 Pioneer Award recipient. Established in 1977, the Pioneer Award recognizes individuals who, through selfless and dedicated service and leadership, have provided the cooperative and its members greater prosperity.

“Randy was a great asset to the cooperative during the many years he served on the board of directors,” shared Steve Abel, CentralStar board vice president. “His understanding of the business history of the cooperative, along with his great knowledge of genetics, made him a valuable board member.”

A member of the CentralStar Board of Directors for a period of 32 years, Nigh served as president for seven years and vice president for two. Additionally, Nigh was a director on the Select Sires Inc. board and was a member of the Holstein sire committee. Nigh has been actively involved in his community and dairy industry, including roles with National Holstein Association, Vernon County Holstein Association, his local township, and the Viroqua FFA in Viroqua.

A family operation, Nigh, and his brother Robert, own Lirr Farm, a 1,000-acre dairy, beef, and cash-crop farm. Lirr Farm is recognized across the world for being the breeder of 7HO9264 Lirr Drew DEMPSEY, a Select Sires Showcase™ sire. The farm’s passion for registered Holsteins runs deep, and to date, Lirr Farm has earned the Holstein Association’s Progressive Breeder Award for 20 years and the Progressive Genetics Award for 30.

DairyNZ kicks off new campaign to attract more Kiwis to dairy

A young female farmer with a love of rural New Zealand is helping to launch DairyNZ’s latest campaign, which aims to give Kiwis a better understanding of what it means to be a dairy farmer.

DairyNZ chief executive Dr Mackle says DairyNZ’s Join us campaign is part of a wider project – Here for the Long Game – aiming to help communities understand what drives dairy farmers, and how they are working to provide a better future for their farms, the land, their families, their communities, and New Zealand.

“Dairy farmers are a core part of the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of communities throughout New Zealand, and our wider ‘Here For the Long Game’ is a platform for dairy farmers to share with other Kiwis who they are and what they do in a way that’s open and fun,” he says.

“Welcoming and supporting new farming talent is vital to the sector’s long game, so we’re excited to launch a new campaign encouraging young Kiwis to get into the dairy sector,” he adds.

The Join Us campaign looks into daily life on a farm – from working with machinery and technology, to caring for animals and the land.

“It’s about showing young Kiwis that, for those keen to get stuck in, dairying offers a truly rewarding career and lifestyle. By joining us, you’re not only securing your own future, but becoming part of creating a better one for all New Zealanders.”

The Join Us campaign is fronted by Eastern Bay of Plenty dairy farmer Shannon Munro, who has been dairy farming for about 10 years.

With her husband and three children, Munro says they opted to move away from urban city life to provide a different upbringing for her young family.

Her husband Steve was a builder and after the birth of their first son, she says they agreed that a city lifestyle wasn’t what they wanted for their family.

They moved from Te Puke to Ngakuru, a rural community in Rotorua Lakes, where Steve found a job as a farm assistant. With her son in tow, Shannon helped with calving and rearing the calves.

Over the next decade as their family expanded, they progressed into farm manager and 2IC roles, and then into contract milking, moving around the country as opportunities came up, including farming in Canterbury and the Waikato.

“We are now about 30 minutes from Whakatāne and are in our first year leasing a 66 ha dairy block, which was previously leased by Steve’s parents. We bought their 170 herd as they purchased a dairy farm.”

Shannon says their three kids, aged between 3 and 11, love being on the farm, riding motorbikes and being hands on. They especially enjoy making huts in the bush and staying at the family’s glamping spot next to the creek.

“The kids can enjoy a lot of freedom on the farm. At the same time, they have lots to keep them busy and they’re learning life skills they may not have otherwise learned in the city,” she says.

The family is planning to stay on their farm for the next few years, but ultimately want to own their own small farm.

Shannon says that as a young, Māori woman she is proud to be presenting a different face to dairy farming and to be associated with the campaign to show people what dairy farming has to offer as a career.

“Dairy farming offers really great opportunities and a great lifestyle. There are lots of opportunities for people to progress quickly and it’s very rewarding.”

Source: Fuseworks Media

Select Sires regrets to inform farmer-owners of GAMEDAY’s passing

Skilled veterinary staff from Select Sires Inc. and experts from The Ohio State University provided extensive care to 7HO15167 GAMEDAY prior to his passing in mid-January. The sire’s death was the result of gastrointestinal ailments that could not be reversed. With limited product in inventory, GAMEDAY semen will be exclusively available to NxGEN® members at this time.

While his passing is unfortunate, GAMEDAY’s elite rank should not go unnoticed. This NxGEN headliner continues to be a breed-leader with +3033 GTPI®, +1,055 Net Merit (NM$), +1,082 Herd Health Profit Dollars (HHP$) and +1,066 Dairy Wellness Profit Index (DWP$®). Dairies looking for next-level genetic gains are encouraged to complete and submit the NxGEN membership form online at www.selectsires.com/nxgen. Herds with a NxGEN membership will have the greatest opportunity to capitalize on GAMEDAY’s genetic power while inventory remains available.

Select Sires thanks RMD Dairy Farm Ltd. of Rittman, Ohio for their partnership in developing GAMEDAY.

®Your Success Our Passion. and NxGEN are registered trademarks of Select Sires Inc. Dairy Wellness Profit Index and DWP$ are registered trademarks of Zoetis Inc., its affiliates and/or its licensors. GTPI is a registered trademark of Holstein Association USA. ™Herd Health Profit Dollars and HHP$ are trademarks of Select Sires Inc.

Honoring a golden career for GOLD CHIP

Select Sires commemorates the influence of 7HO10920 Mr Chassity GOLD CHIP-ET (EX-95). The Goldwyn son of the world-famous Regancrest S Chassity-ET (EX-92-EX-MS-GMD-DOM) passed away late last week. GOLD CHIP has been a cornerstone in Select Sires’ Showcase™ lineup for more than a decade. He has sired national and international champions, such as the most recent intermediate champion of the International Holstein Show, Oak-Ridge-K Gchip Turbo (EX-92), and many high-scoring cows, including Oakfield GC Darby-ET (EX-95-EX-MS) and Ryan-Vu Gchip Claudette-ET (EX-95). GOLD CHIP can be found on the maternal side of up-and-coming Showcase sire, 7HO13839 TATOO.

“With more than 43,000 daughters in his proof, GOLD CHIP was a predictable source of consistent results,” said Kevin Jorgensen, senior Holstein sire analyst at Select Sires Inc. “He boosted mastitis resistance, added balance and fitness and created cows that improved over time. GOLD CHIP was a true customer satisfaction sire and we were blessed to have him as a member of the Showcase program.”

Select Sires extends their sincere gratitude to the breeders of GOLD CHIP, Ernest W. Kueffner and David R. Dyment of Boonsboro, Maryland.

Based in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc., is the largest global A.I. cooperative and is comprised of six farmer-owned and -controlled local organizations in the United States. As the industry leader, it provides highly fertile semen, as well as excellence in service and programs to supply dairy and beef producers with the world’s best genetics.

CentralStar Cooperative Hires Nine Interns

CentralStar Cooperative, serving dairy and beef producers in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana, has hired nine interns for 2022 in their genetics, laboratory, and research and development business units.

Six students, all from different colleges, will join the genetics and artificial-insemination (A.I.) team as A.I. Specialist Interns. Allyson Harbridge, Fond du Lac, Wis., is a junior at University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wis., majoring in animal science with a certificate in business management for agricultural and life sciences. Harbridge started working with large animals when she was 15. She has a background in livestock sales, milking cows, and working at a veterinary clinic.

Brenton Wolf, Oconto Falls, Wis., is a junior studying dairy science and agricultural business at University of Wisconsin-River Falls, River Falls, Wis. His love of the dairy industry began when he started showing cattle at the county fair. He’s interested in genetics and reproduction, as well as dairy health and nutrition.

Brett Schoenherr grew up on a beef-cattle and poultry operation in Canton, Iowa. He is currently a junior at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Platteville, Wis., majoring in animal science with a livestock-production emphasis. Schoenherr is a member of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville wrestling team and the FarmHouse Fraternity.

Emma Duarte, Dighton, Mass., is pursuing a bachelor’s in animal science and an associate’s in agricultural business at the State University of New York at Cobleskill, Cobleskill, N.Y. Her passion for the dairy industry began in high school when she attended Bristol County Agricultural High School and worked on the school’s dairy and livestock farm.

Jayson Heinold was raised on a cattle and row-crop operation in Valparaiso, Ind., He attends Purdue University, West Lafayette, Ind., studying animal production and agricultural finance.

Savannah Avent is a junior at Michigan State University, Lansing, Mich., majoring in animal science with a minor in business. She grew up in Posen, Mich., on a fifth-generation crop farm with a small beef herd and horses. Avent’s upbringing includes 4-H and FFA; she also completed an independent-study course at Werth Dairy, LLC, Alpena, Mich., with a focus on A.I. 

CentralStar’s 2022 Research and Development Intern is Sophie VanderWeele, Pleasant Ridge, Mich., a third-year undergraduate student at Michigan State University. She’s studying chemical engineering and minoring in pharmacology and toxicology. Much of her undergraduate research has been focused on reproductive health and sciences. She’s looking forward to joining the CentralStar team and seeing how she can translate that knowledge to an agricultural and livestock setting.

CentralStar has two milk-and-diagnostic-testing laboratories, one in Kaukauna, Wis., and the other in Grand Ledge, Mich. Ashlee Piskow, Granton, Wis., will intern in the Kaukauna laboratory. She grew up on a 30-cow dairy farm and was an FFA member. Piskow also worked on a 500-cow dairy farm through high school where she completed a youth apprenticeship. Piskow is currently a student at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, Green Bay, Wis., studying farm-production dairy science.

Emma Rauch, Niles, Mich., will intern at CentralStar’s Grand Ledge laboratory. She grew up showing in 4-H and FFA. Today, she attends Michigan State University studying animal science and minoring in biotechnology. Rauch is involved with the livestock-judging team, Block and Bridle, and Sigma Alpha.

CentralStar’s goal of enhancing producer profitability through integrated services is fulfilled by incorporating an array of products and services critical to dairy-and-beef-farm prosperity. CentralStar’s product and service offerings include Accelerated Genetics, GenerVations and Select Sires genetics; extensive artificial-insemination (A.I.) technician service; genetic, reproduction, and dairy records consultation; DHI services; diagnostic testing; herd-management products; research and development; and more. CentralStar’s administration and warehouse facilities are located in Lansing, Mich., and Waupun, Wis., with laboratories in Grand Ledge, Mich., and Kaukauna, Wis. For more information, visit CentralStar Cooperative Inc. at www.mycentralstar.com. 

Premier Select Sires Scholarship Deadline is January 31, 2022

The deadline to apply for the 2022 Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program offered by Premier Select Sires is January 31, 2022. Premier will award up to $20,000 to students within the cooperative territory through this program, and students meeting the eligibility requirements below are encouraged to apply. Students can access scholarship forms under the “News” tab of www.premierselectsires.com, by calling (570) 836-3168, or by emailing office@premierselect.com.

Two exemplary students will receive $2,500 scholarships through either the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship or the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Several other students will receive scholarships of $750-$1,000 in value.

Eligible students include high school seniors through college seniors presently enrolled or planning to enroll in an undergraduate agriculture-related major. The student or his/her parent or guardian must reside in the Premier membership area and must be an active Premier customer in good standing. Previous scholarship winners remain eligible during subsequent award years; however, a student can only receive a $2,500 scholarship once in his/her school career.

The Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program provides financial support to eligible college undergraduates in agricultural majors. The program provides additional return to the cooperative’s member-owners by supporting the next generation of young people desiring to study and work in the agriculture industry. The Premier Select Sires, Inc. board of directors has made a commitment to providing money to support this scholarship program on an ongoing annual basis.

Semex, CIAQ & EastGen Contribute $100,000 to BC Dairy Association

Semex along with its owners, EastGen and CIAQ, are pleased to announce the donation of a combined $100,000 to the British Columbia Dairy Association adding to the $100,000 donation previously made by WestGen. Last month the BC Dairy Association worked quickly to set up an emergency recovery fund with all monies raised directed towards providing urgently needed services and supplies to dairy farms and their families.
 
 “The entire country has been moved by the devastation seen by our clients, friends and partners in British Columbia following these catastrophic floods,” says Paul Larmer, Semex CEO. “Our deepest concern has been and continues to be the health and safety of farmers, farm workers and livestock in these affected areas. With our partners at WestGen, we collectively worked immediately to protect supply chains and deliverables, and now together we’re working to support the work needed to rebuild in these critical farming areas in what has already been a challenging year.”
 
“British Columbia’s farmers were there for us during the Great Ice Storm of 1998,” says CIAQ President, Jean-François Morin. “Now it is our turn to be there for them. On behalf of our Board of Directors, employees and client-owners, we are making this gesture of solidarity to help them get through this terrible ordeal.”
 
 “As partners in Semex, we work together for producers across Canada,” says EastGen President Gerrit Wensink. “Now, as the individuals and families in British Columbia deal with the devastation brought by the floods, producers in Eastern Canada are united in support of their colleagues and partners in BC.”
 
“We’re proud to be partners in a key part of Western Canada’s dairy community and will continue to support and evaluate needs in this recovery effort,” says Larmer. “Today we’re proud to announce this collective commitment and we look forward to helping rebuild this critical part of the agricultural landscape.”

Exciting New Genetics at IPS

The December sire summaries unveiled exciting new genetics at International Protein Sires (IPS). “With the recent sire summaries, we are pleased to introduce our new class of Holstein genetics. This diversified group of genomic tested sires provides breeding tools for the most discerning dairy farmer. Importantly, these bulls are a true testament to our goal of Breeding Cows, Not Numbers,” stated Ron Sersland, President and CEO.

566HO1348 COLLINS leads the new IPS class at +2935 GTPI. His superior credentials include +1,566 lbs. milk, +2.29 type, and +0.0 DPR. COLLINS is the highest genomic tested sire in the Holstein breed this high for the combined ratings listed above. Identified as A2A2, COLLINS excels in components at +83 lbs. (+.08%) fat and +61 lbs. (+.04%) for a combined 144 lbs. Additional trait improvements are: 9.3% EFI, +3.5 PL, and 2.9% calving ease. COLLINS is sired by Genuine and from a young and promising Helix daughter. The fountainhead of his notable family is the influential breed matron, Snow-Denises Dellia (EX-95-GMD).

566HO1349 SPOT ON PP is the breeds #3 GTPI homozygous polled genomic tested sire at +2802 GTPI. A known labor saver, SPOT ON PP daughters do not require dehorning. Added qualities include +84 lbs. (+.20%) fat and +47 lbs. (+.09%) protein for a combined 131 lbs. On the conformation side, SPOT ON PP is +1.43 for UDC. Among the top three GTPI PP sires, SPOT ON PP ranks highest for type and udder composite. His linear scores for height and width of rear udders along with fore udder improvement is impressive. An A2A2 designated sire, SPOT ON PP is also +4.2 productive life and 2.3% calving ease. This breed leader is sired by Monument P and from a Luster P daughter. The maternal family traces to the highly respected Rilara Mars Las Ravena (EX-91-GMD).

566HO1350 AINSLEE brings added qualities to the new IPS class at +2718 GTPI. AINSLEE is rated a supreme production bull at +1,337 lbs. In addition, this class act excels in conformation traits. His first-class ratings are: +2.41 type, +2.16 UDC, and +1.39 FLC. Nearly all AINSLEE’s linear traits are off the chart on the positive side. Further qualities include 9.2% EFI, +3.4 productive life, and 2.5% calving ease. AINSLEE is a rare genetic package being this high for milk, type, and +1.5 DPR.

566HO1341 BIG ORBIT adds stardom to the new IPS class at +2927 GTPI. High components are superior attributes; +117 lbs. (+.32%) fat and +48 lbs. (+.09%) protein. His combined fat and protein is +165 lbs. Production improvement is complimentary at +688 lbs. milk. BIG ORBIT’s conformation traits are equally impressive; +1.34 type and +1.45 UDC. Additional qualities include +831 DWP$ and +3.3 productive life. BIG ORBIT is a Biggelo son from a Very Good Granite daughter with 5.1% butterfat test. His next six classified maternal dams are all classified excellent.

These impressive additions add genetic power to the IPS Holstein sire lineup. As a result, dairy farmers can be assured of durable cattle with superior performance. IPS semen is available across the United States and around the world from company employees and independent distributors. Located in Rock Springs, Wisconsin, you may obtain additional information about IPS through their website, www.ipssires.com or by calling toll free: 1.800.542.7593

Arcowin merger ends – Innoval, Masterrind and VikingGenetics

The synergies of a cooperation between the leading AI companies in Europe have been investigated including the intent to merge. The investigation has identified many benefits of collaboration between partners, but the complexity exceeds the added value of a merge. Therefore, a decision to end the merging process have been taken.

16th December 2021, the owners of Innoval in France, Masterrind in Germany and VikingGenetics (owned by Faba, Växa and VikingDanmark) in the Nordic countries, have decided to stop the process of merging the three companies Innoval, Masterrind and VikingGenetics.

On 1st December 2020, the three companies Evolution, Masterrind and VikingGenetics, announced the foundation of the new cooperative Arcowin from 1st of January 2021. Arcowin was established to support dairy and beef breeding programs from Evolution, Masterrind and VikingGenetics, with the main objective to take advantage of their respective genetic resources and start some R&D collaborations. In December 2020, the three companies agreed to investigate further synergies of collaboration. Based on the analysis of the synergies, the board of directors of the cooperatives announces their intent to merge activities related to R&D, breeding, production and international sales and marketing in April 2021.

16. December 2021, the leadership, and Board of Directors of Arcowin, has evaluated that is has not been possible to create further synergies by merging the companies. This is due to legal and technical issues, that has ended in a possible structure not being beneficial for the members.

Merging the three companies should result in synergies that exceeds the benefit each company individual delivers to their members, owners and worldwide customers. It has not been possible to gain, and therefore the decision has been made to stop the merging

The three partners will continue to work on common breeding programs and collaborate on some R&D projects, but each company operating independently. The work will be continuing ensuring the most sustainable and highest possible genetic progress of different breeds, for the greatest benefit of the members and worldwide customers within the dairy and beef industry.

Source: arcowin.com

Select Sires Inc. recognized with workplace award

Select Sires Inc. received a Best CEO award and high scores for various categories, including overall culture, leadership and perks and benefits in Comparably’s quarterly Best Places to Work Awards. The Best CEO award identifies CEOs in the top 5 percent of 1,927 similar sized companies. These assessments were completed by Comparably, a trusted third-party evaluator of workplace culture and compensation.

“The exceptional leaders on our annual Best CEOs list invest just as much in the happiness and well-being of their employees as they do in the growth of their business,” said Comparably CEO Jason Nazar. “David Thorbahn’s recognition as one of the best this year is a testament to his strong leadership at Select Sires.”

In addition to Thorbahn’s recognition, the Select Sires Executive Team received an A+ score with many anonymous reviews commenting on their positive communication and encouragement along with sheer passion for the agriculture industry. In the Overall Culture category, a culmination of 18 different metrics, Select Sires Inc. received an A-.       

In November, Select Sires Inc. partnered with Comparably to assess critical aspects of the workplace. Employees completed anonymous surveys that included more than 50 structured and comprehensive questions in nearly 20 core culture categories, including: compensation, leadership, professional development, work-life balance and benefits. The submissions were reviewed by Comparably and feedback was provided to Select Sires.

Select Sires Inc. takes great pride in their people and strives to create a positive and fulfilling environment for employees to succeed. Moving forward, leadership teams and department managers will glean valuable insights from Comparably’s reports and review the anonymous employee responses. This partnership and feedback will allow Select Sires to take actions that continuously improve workplace culture and ensure employees are both respected and celebrated for their hard work and dedication.

Comparably’s mission is to make workplaces transparent and rewarding for both employees and employers. Comparably reveals company cultures and market compensation (as contributed by real employees) and showcases the most fair and accurate display of employer brands.

To learn more about Select Sires Inc. assessment and read firsthand reviews from verified staff, visit www.comparably.com/companies/select-sires.

Select Sires graduates a diverse, complete class of daughter-proven sires

Twelve Holsteins, four Jerseys, three Brown Swiss and one Ayrshire graduated to the daughter-proven lineup following the December Sire Summaries. “The class added great depth to the lineups, with diverse pedigrees and a variety of genetic specialties,” said Kevin Jorgensen, Holstein sire analyst. “We continue to create sires for every market and deliver daughter-proven results for complete, trouble-free cows to enhance farmer-owner success.”

Select Sires Highlights

  • 7HO14320 ALPHABET makes his debut on the daughter-proven list among the breed’s top-5 TPI® sires. He’s also a leader for production traits (+2,194 Milk, +101 Fat and +63 Protein) and boasts a positive Sire Conception Rate (+0.6 SCR).
  • 7HO14364 EISAKU hails from one of the all-time greats: Sandy-Valley Eternity (EX-92-EX-MS-DOM). He’s a sire that offers great production and positive components with a balanced linear and daughters that are well suited for modern environments.
  • 7HO14438 GODDARD possesses traits to create healthy and fertile cattle. He ranks well for Herd Health Profit Dollars (+898 HHP$) and Dairy Wellness Profit Index® (+905 DWP$®) with positive sire and daughter fertility. GODDARD also qualifies for Select Sires’ FeedPRO®, RobotPRO®, GrazingPRO®, Mastitis ResistantPRO and FertilityPRO designations.
  • 7HO14401 CASCADE is a perfect complement to 14HO7770 HELIX and 7HO12788 FRAZZLED bloodlines. He’s a 7HO12787 KING ROYAL son that transmits a rare combination of elite TPI (+2725), Type traits (+2.20 PTAT, +2.34 UDC) and positive Daughter Pregnancy Rate (DPR).
  • Select Sires is excited for 7HO14324 BACKFLIP to join the daughter-proven Showcase™ lineup. His dam is the former Canadian Cow of the Year, Jacobs Goldwyn Britany (EX-96-2E-EX-MS).
  • 7HO14264 SPEEDY is a great production sire (1,939 Milk, +139 Combined Fat and Protein) backed by multiple generations of Very Good dams. At +981 HHP$ he ranks No. 4 in the breed.
  • 7HO14314 ROCHESTER and 7HO14451 BIG AL can offer farmers high-ranking TPI values, A2A2 Beta-Casein and powerful mastitis resistance. At +974 HHP$ BIG AL ranks No. 5 in the breed.
  • Three Jersey sires graduate to the proven lineup: 7JE1699 JX PINE {6}, 7JE1705 MAGICIAN and 7JE1719 JX ADAMA {6}. Both JX PINE {6} and JX ADAMA {6} excel in their production and component offerings. MAGICIAN is a Showcase favorite, destined to sire winners on the colored shavings and with breed-leading +3.7 DPR to boost fertility.
  • 7AY121 MAGELLAN traces back to Shawards Calimero Megan (EX-94-2E). He’s a Revolution son with an outstanding balance of production (+964 Milk) and Type (+0.4).
  • 7BS891 FORTUNE, 7BS897 BEACON and 7BS903 TY earn their place in the daughter-proven lineup. FORTUNE and TY offer a complete package of production, fertility and fitness, while BEACON shows himself to be a Type specialist. BEACON daughters are tall, strong and deep bodied with amazing frames.

Accelerated Genetics Highlights

  • 14HO14138 HUSKY will sire healthy cows that return profit to the dairy. He is a breed leader for DPR (+4.0), Productive Life (+6.6 PL) and many of Zoetis’ cow wellness traits, including the Wellness Trait index (WT$) at +214. HUSKY performs very well on the HHP$ index with +927 and is stamped with the Mastitis ResistantPRO designation.
  • 14HO14315 MILFORD graduates as a high component sire for Fat and Protein percent (+0.13 Fat, +0.06 Protein) and makes for a great mating on FRAZZLED daughters and granddaughters.
  • 14HO14442 DELPRO improves wellness and production simultaneously with A2A2 Beta-Casein and BB Kappa-Casein. He’s also the perfect complement to 7HO11314 MOGUL and FRAZZLED bloodlines.
  • 14JE1675 IROQUOIS-P is Polled with a super low Somatic Cell Score (2.77) and carries the Mastitis ResistantPRO designation. He’s known for siring strong cows with more moderate stature and high, wide rear udders.

GenerVations Highlights

  • 250HO14310 COFFEE is an extreme Fat improver (+0.24% Fat) with positive sire and daughter fertility and powerful mastitis resistance. He carries both FertilityPRO and Mastitis ResistantPRO designations, as well as FeedPRO® and GrazingPRO®.

For more information about individual sires, please visit www.selectsires.com and use the new Advanced Sire Search to locate and sort sires that match your genetic goals. To access sires from the palm of your hand, download Select Sires Mobile from your app store today!

Based in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc., is the largest global A.I. cooperative and is comprised of six farmer-owned and -controlled local organizations in the United States. As the industry leader, it provides highly fertile semen, as well as excellence in service and programs to supply dairy and beef producers with the world’s best genetics.

Source: 12/21 CDCB Genomic Evaluation, AJCA/HA/ABA/BSCBA Type Evaluation %Rel: ALPHABET Yield 94, SCR 99; SPEEDY Yield 98; MAGICIA DPR 71; MAGELLAN Yield 68, PTAT 52; HUSKY DPR 86, PL 87; MILFORD Yield 96; IROQUOIS-P SCS 83; COFFEE Yield 97. All Jerseys sires are JH1F, JNSF and BBR 100.

™Showcase, gender SELECTED, Mastitis ResistantPRO, Herd Health Profit Dollars and HHP$ are trademarks of Select Sires Inc. Jersey Performance Index (JPI) and Jersey Udder Index (JUI) are trademarks of the American Jersey Cattle Association. Calf Wellness Index and CW$ are trademarks of Zoetis Inc., its affiliates and/or its licensors. ®FeedPRO, RobotPRO, GrazingPRO, FertilityPRO and Your Success Our Passion. are registered trademarks of Select Sires Inc. TPI is a registered trademark of Holstein Association USA. Dairy Wellness Profit Index, DWP$, Wellness Trait Index and WT$ are registered trademarks of Zoetis Inc., its affiliates and/or its licensors. 7=Select Sires; 14=Accelerated Genetics; 250=GenerVations

Limitations and Conditions of Sale: gender SELECTED semen shall be used only for the single insemination of one female bovine during natural ovulation with the intent to produce a single offspring unless specifically approved on an individual customer basis by Sexing Technologies in writing. AS A CONDITION OF PURCHASING gender SELECTED, THE PURCHASER AGREES THAT genderSELECTED SEMEN WILL NOT BE REVERSE SORTED OR RE-SORTED UNLESS SPECIFICALLY PERMITTED, IN ADVANCE, ON A CASE-BY-CASE BASIS BY SELECT SIRES IN WRITING. Select Sires intends to monitor the use of the gender SELECTED semen and vigorously enforce these restrictions on use. Please see http://www.selectsires.com

NxGEN sires excel in health, wellness and fitness

Select Sires offers early access to the industry’s most elite genetics through the NxGEN® program. These sires hail from the best pedigrees and boast powerful health, wellness and fitness traits to create the next generation of profitable cattle. Following the December sire summaries, the breed’s No. 1 available Net Merit sire, 7HO15821 FROST BITE (+1,191 NM$), joined the NxGEN lineup. The most recent portfolio includes 11 sires that average +2930 GTPI®, +982 NM$, +995 Cheese Merit (CM$) and +991 Herd Health Profit Dollars (HHP$).

“As dairies double-down on genetics, they are more critical of the females selected to produce replacements. This strategy, combined with an intense focus on sire selection, is expected to move the dial on genetic advancement,” said Lyle Kruse, vice president of U.S. market development at Select Sires Inc. “A more aggressive approach to sire selection will deliver returns on your investment and this lineup of NxGEN sires provides dairies with the most competitive genetic advantage.”

New addition FROST BITE (+3013 GTPI) offers a unique pedigree: 7HO15097 GRANADA x 7HO14454 LIONEL x 7HO12897 SAMURI. His NM$ leadership combines with phenomenal health and wellness (+1,090 HHP$, +1,221 Dairy Wellness Profit Index®, +133 Wellness Trait Index®) plus outstanding production (+1,531 Milk, +164 Combined Fat and Protein) and A2A2 Beta-Casein.

Overall, the current lineup equips herds with the genetic power to combat the dairy industry’s most common ailments and culling risks. Seven of the sires are more than +1,000 on Select Sires’ new HHP$ index. HHP$ places strong emphasis on health traits, particularly mastitis resistance. When compared to TPI and NM$, mastitis resistance and Somatic Cell Score (SCS) PTAs represent only 5 percent of the formula whereas these traits receive a relative emphasis of 19 percent in Select Sires’ HHP$ formula. Sires 7HO15583 KASHTON (+1,103), FROST BITE (+1,090), 7HO15167 GAMEDAY (+1,082) and 250HO15662 RIX (+1,055) rank as the top four sires for this innovative index.

In addition to HHP$, Select Sires also uses the green Mastitis ResistantPRO designation to identify sires that possess traits necessary to combat costly mastitis cases. Eight of the NxGEN sires qualify for the Mastitis ResistantPRO designation, including KASHTON, GAMEDAY, RIX and 14HO15582 MASHAK.

All NxGEN sires are available in Select Sires’ high-quality gender SELECTED SexedULTRA semen to create your next generation of healthy and profitable herd replacements.

To experience next level genetic gains, join Select Sires’ NxGEN program and add these sires to your lineup. For more information about NxGEN, or to apply for membership, visit www.selectsires.com/NxGEN.

Based in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc., is the largest global A.I. cooperative and is comprised of six farmer-owned and -controlled local organizations in the United States. As the industry leader, it provides highly fertile semen, as well as excellence in service and programs to supply dairy and beef producers with the world’s best genetics.

Select Sires Acquires GeneNet LLC

Beef cattle producers and industry personnel met recently at the Range Beef Cow Symposium in Rapid City, South Dakota for Select Sires’ relaunch of GeneNet LLC, their newly acquired grid-marketing company. More than 150 observers enjoyed fellowship, hospitality and informative presentations from Blair Brothers Angus Ranch, Sturgis, South Dakota, and Sandra Utter, supply chain manager, Select Sires Inc. Attendees participated in valuable discussions detailing the advantages and challenges of grid marketing and strategies for its implementation.

Select Sires Inc. acquired GeneNet LLC in 2020 to bolster the cooperative’s service to dairy and beef producers and help capture more value for raising better cattle. Based out of Hays, Kansas, GeneNet LLC has a 23-year history of helping customers gain access to grid marketing opportunities for their fed cattle and then returning valuable carcass data to enhance genetic, management and marketing decisions.

GeneNet was founded in 1998 by Ken Conway, Ph.D., a long-time influencer in the purebred Angus industry with a doctorate in meat science from Texas A&M University. He was one of the first to develop a grid during the value-based marketing revolution. Conway maintained his leadership role with GeneNet for one year following the acquisition by Select Sires to aid in the transition and mentor Sandra Utter to lead the charge.

Honoring SUPERSIRE’s millionaire legacy

Select Sires has announced the passing of genetic giant, 7HO11351 Seagull-Bay SUPERSIRE-ET (EX-90-GM). After historical popularity as a young sire, SUPERSIRE made his debut to the daughter-proven lineup as the breed’s No. 1 GTPI® sire in April of 2015. He reigned as the breed-leader for four consecutive genetic evaluations and maintained a top-10 rank for many more sire summaries. In 2018, at the age of seven years and 10 months, SUPERSIRE made headlines as Select Sires’ eleventh bull to sell one million units of semen. Today, SUPERSIRE has more than 72,000 daughters in his production proof with a stellar reputation known worldwide.

“The beautiful thing about SUPERSIRE daughters is they outproduce the herd while doing it in a healthy fashion. SUPERSIRE has been able to transmit those same qualities to several sons,” said Rick VerBeek, Holstein sire analyst at Select Sires Inc. “SUPERSIRE should be regarded as one of the all-time great profit generators of his generation!”

SUPERSIRE and his progeny are designed for success: tailor-made for modern dairies, efficient and most importantly, profitable. His influence is prominent on the maternal pedigree of several high-ranking sires, including: 14HO7770 HELIX, 14HO7796 GRIFF, 250HO13267 DUKE and 7HO12819 OUTSIDERS. S-S-I Suprsire Miri 8679-ET (EX-90-EX-MS-GMD-DOM), is one of the most well-known SUPERSIRE daughters and dam of 7HO13250 JEDI and 7HO13373 FLAGSHIP. Presence on the paternal pedigree of 7HO11985 TETRIS, 7HO12449 MARTY, 14HO7418 BELAIR and 7HO12788 FRAZZLED will carry SUPERSIRE’s legacy and continue to bring genetic power to dairy farmers around the world.

Bred by Seagull-Bay Holsteins in American Falls, Idaho, SUPERSIRE was a 7HO10524 ROBUST son from a beautiful maternal line and a direct descendent of the famed Ammon-Peachey Shauna-ET (EX-92-2E-EX-MS-GMD-DOM). Select Sires is thankful to Seagull-Bay Holsteins for the opportunity to work with SUPERSIRE and introduce his genetics to the world.

Based in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc., is the largest global A.I. cooperative and is comprised of six farmer-owned and -controlled local organizations in the United States. As the industry leader, it provides highly fertile semen, as well as excellence in service and programs to supply dairy and beef producers with the world’s best genetics.

CentralStar Awards Employee Teams

CentralStar Cooperative, serving dairy and beef producers in Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana, recently announced their employee team-member award winners for the 2020-2021 fiscal year. At almost 400 employees strong, CentralStar recognizes team members for everything from work anniversaries to sales, service, and outstanding-effort achievements. 

Rex Reinholt, Rochester, Ind., was honored with Area Sales Manager of the Year. Sherman Wilson, LaValle, Wis.; Deanna Pleiman, Lake City, Mich.; and Jim Neuser, Cato, Wis., all received Artificial Insemination (A.I.) Specialist of the Year awards. Tyler Vande Wettering, Greenleaf, Wis., was named Team A.I. Technician of the Year, and Nathan Ellerbrock, Osseo, Wis., was Runner-Up Team A.I. Technician of the Year. Julie Ainsworth, Grand Rapids, Mich., was awarded Consultant of the Year.

Continuing with CentralStar’s Dairy Herd Information (DHI) milk-testing business unit, DHI Specialist of the Year recognition went to both Lexi DuSell, New Richmond, Wis., and Angela Gaugler, Fowlerville, Mich. First-Year DHI Specialist of the Year recipients include Katelyn Loeks, McBain, Mich., and Brittany Coop, Eau Claire, Wis.

The company-wide honorable outstanding-effort award was presented to Financial Analyst Keri Colegrove, Eaton Rapids, Mich.

Teams are critical to CentralStar’s success. Employee team members are asked to vote for Team Star-Member Award winners who exemplify teamwork, dedication to customers, and overall enthusiasm for the company. Team Star-Member Award winners include Laura Pavliscak, Okemos, Mich.; Chad Kaufmann, St. Johns, Mich.; Kyle Nackers, Kaukauna, Wis.; Keri Colegrove; Mike Finegan, Litchfield, Mich.; Emily Middleton, Kingston, Mich.; Brian Landis, Goshen, Ind.; Deanna Pleiman; Nathan Ellerbrock; Mike Kutz, New Holsteins, Wis.; Dan Zernicke, Bonduel, Wis.; Matt Staner, Potosi, Wis.; and Victor Lopez, Beaver Dam, Wis.

CentralStar recognizes A.I. specialists and team A.I. technicians for number of A.I. services. Achieving major A.I.-service milestones during the last fiscal year: Garret Carnahan, Hilbert, Wis., 100,000 A.I. services; James Tiffany, Spring Valley, Wis., 100,000 A.I. services; Sandy Hoppmann, Wilton, Wis., 100,000 A.I. services; Aaron McMillan, Oshkosh, Wis., 150,000 A.I. services; Chris Meyer, Loganville, Wis., 150,000 A.I. services; and Dan Zernicke, 175,000 A.I. services.

Area Sales Manager Brad Fossum, Lodi, Wis., was recognized for achieving a career milestone of 1 million semen-units sold and Greg Beavers, Bloomington, Ind., 500,000 semen-units sold.

In CentralStar’s DHI business unit, employees are honored for number of cows tested. Major milestones in this area include those who’ve tested 1 million cows so far in their careers: Dennis Holterman, Watertown, Wis.; Cindy Milligan, Parma, Mich.; Misty Rademacher, Elsie, Mich.; Lorie Reese, Posen, Mich.; and Alicia Vanderpool, Morenci, Mich. In addition, Roger Sweeney, Ubly, Mich., was honored for testing 3 million cows; Jayne Steuer-Birkholz, Elkhart Lake, Wis., 4 million cows; and Rick Huth, Green Bay, Wis., 6 million cows.

CentralStar Cooperative has tremendous longevity among employees, and several were honored for major levels in years of service. Those with the most tenure include Dale Griebenow, Watertown, Wis., 25 years; Pat Kondel, Owosso, Mich., 25 years; Lorie Reese, 25 years; Ben Slack, Viroqua, Wis., 25 years; Brent Beeker, Constantine, Mich., 30 years; Carol Decker, Menasha, Wis., 30 years; Scott Woepse, Kiel, Wis., 30 years; Frank Blahnik, Cuba City, Wis., 40 years; Kris Kimball, Seymour, Wis., 45 years; and James Iverson, Mindoro, Wis., 45 years.

CentralStar’s goal of enhancing producer profitability through integrated services is fulfilled by incorporating an array of products and services critical to dairy-and-beef-farm prosperity. CentralStar’s product and service offerings include Accelerated Genetics, GenerVations and Select Sires genetics; extensive artificial-insemination (A.I.) technician service; genetic, reproduction, and dairy records consultation; DHI services; diagnostic testing; herd-management products; research and development; and more. CentralStar’s administration and warehouse facilities are located in Lansing, Mich., and Waupun, Wis., with laboratories in Grand Ledge, Mich., and Kaukauna, Wis. For more information, visit CentralStar Cooperative Inc. at www.mycentralstar.com.

Premier Select Sires Scholarship Opportunities Total $20,000 in 2022

Premier Select Sires will award up to $20,000 to students within the Premier territory through the 2022 Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program. Two exemplary students will receive $2,500 scholarships through either the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship or the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Several other students will receive scholarships of $750-$1,000 in value.

Scholarship application forms will be available beginning November 15, 2021 under the “News” tab of www.premierselectsires.com, by calling (570) 836-3168, or by emailing office@premierselect.com. Completed scholarship applications are due January 31, 2022.

Eligible students include high school seniors through college seniors presently enrolled or planning to enroll in an undergraduate agriculture-related major. The student or his/her parent or guardian must reside in the Premier membership area and must be an active Premier customer in good standing. Previous scholarship winners remain eligible during subsequent award years; however, a student can only receive a $2,500 scholarship once in his/her school career.

The Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program provides financial support to eligible college undergraduates in agricultural majors. The program provides additional return to the cooperative’s member-owners by supporting the next generation of young people desiring to study and work in the agriculture industry. The Premier Select Sires, Inc. board of directors has made a commitment to providing money to support this scholarship program on an ongoing annual basis.

COBA/Select Sires Names Chris Sigurdson General Manager

COBA/Select Sires Board President, Chad Steinberger, is pleased to announce that Chris Sigurdson of Sartell, Minnesota has accepted the role of general manager/CEO.  “Sigurdson has been leading the growth of Minnesota/Select Sires Coop, Inc. since August 2008.  He brings a wealth of industry background along with an exciting plan for growth and innovation to the cooperative.  His federation leadership and experience will be an asset to COBA/Select Sires,” says Steinberger.

Sigurdson will lead both cooperatives after Duane Logan, retiring general manager of COBA/Select Sires, finishes his term at the end of the year as the fifth manager in COBA’s 75-year history.  Sigurdson along with COBA/Select Sires’ board of directors are looking forward to utilizing the outstanding staff between both cooperatives to serve members in all of the service territories.  They are developing a plan to share resources to maximize service to member-owner-customers while effectively using the talents of the staff for both cooperatives. He looks forward to exploring areas such as business systems, marketing, communications, key account management, semen availability, sales development, strategic concepts and support services as possible areas of collaboration.

Serving over 13 years as the Minnesota Select Sires general manager, Sigurdson is no stranger to the Select Sires federation staff and employees.  “His previous service with another artificial insemination company as well as an advanced reproductive technologies company provide great background to potential areas of growth for both cooperatives,” according to Steinberger. 

COBA/Select Sires, Inc., one of the founding members of Select Sires, Inc., has become widely respected for its clearly demonstrated ability to provide the finest service and bovine genetics available in the world.  COBA/Select Sires, Inc., operates as a true cooperative by encouraging member input and allowing members to share in profits through patronage refunds.

US bovine AI industry invests in next generation of geneticists and andrologists

The National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) is pleased to announce that applications are now welcome for the 4thAnnual NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship. Named after Dr. Gordon Doak who dedicated 42 years to the bovine genetic improvement industry, this Fellowship is part of the industry’s ongoing commitment to advance the fields of bovine genetics and male reproduction physiology.

Each year, NAAB selects one talented student to receive the NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship. The Fellowship presents a unique opportunity to any student desiring to pursue a career in the cattle genetic improvement industry. The selected recipient will earn a fully funded Master of Science degree in bovine genetics or male reproduction physiology at a major US university of choice. The Fellowship is open to both US and international students.

‘NAAB is proud to support talented students who represent the future of our industry,’ says Jay Weiker, President of NAAB. ‘We are continuously impressed with the quality of applicants. Often from agricultural backgrounds, these students embody the passion and drive of the next generation to advance this industry and improve the quality of the global dairy and beef populations for a changing world.’ Previous winners of the NAAB Doak Fellowship are Laura Jensen, Elizabeth Donaldson and Caleb Rykaczewski. Laura, a Wisconsin native, is completing her Masters’ study at the University of Florida where she researched the genetics of thermotolerance in dairy cattle. Laura will pursue her PhD in Australia. Elizabeth, born and raised in Kansas, pursues a career in beef cattle genetics and has completed one year of her program at Kansas State where she is researching the genetics of methane emission in grazing Angus cattle. Caleb has commenced his program at the Ohio State University analyzing on-animal sensors to monitor bull health and performance. All three recipients are outstanding ambassadors for the NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship and are supported with a network of world leading scientists as well as AI industry experts.

For more information on the NAAB Doak Graduate Fellowship and the details to apply, please visit https://www.naab-css.org/news/naab-scholarship Applications are accepted until December 1st, 2021.

NAAB is the national trade association for artificial insemination businesses. NAAB members account for about 95% of bovine semen sold in the USA and market semen to more than 100 countries around the world.

National Association of Animal Breeders, Inc.

Certified Semen Services, Inc.

8413 Excelsior Drive, Suite 140 Madison, WI 53717

608.827.1526 Fax:608.827.1535

Website: www.naab-css.org

JNS Test from Genetic Visions-ST™️ is Made Official by AJCA

The American Jersey Cattle Association has designated the JNS test from livestock genomic testing leader and innovator Genetic Visions-ST™ as its official test for Jersey Neuropathy with Splayed Forelimbs (JNS) in an animal’s genetic code.

JNS is an undesirable genetic trait that produces Jersey calves unable to stand because of splayed forelimbs. Calves with JNS are born alive and appear to be healthy but they have neurological issues causing loss of feeling in their front legs. Affected calves lay with their front legs stretched in front of their bodies. Healthy calves lay with their legs bent underneath their bodies. JNS is haplotype and when first found can be eliminated in future generations through selective breeding of animals using genomic testing. The Genetic Visions-ST™ JNS test is a precise test identifying animals that have the JNS trait and is more exact than haplotype selection, which is not 100 percent accurate.

“We realize the bottom-line costs mutations like JNS inflict on dairy producers,” says Alan Mileham, Genetic Visions-ST™ Senior Researcher and one of the team leaders who created the JNS test. “The faster the Jersey breed can rid itself of the JNS condition, the faster the breed will remove the mutation. If Jersey breeders take their testing seriously, JNS will quickly become a disease of the past.”

Producers can currently purchase the stand-alone JNS test but soon will be able to access the test through the suite of Vision+™ genomic tests. For more information on the JNS test, expanded genomic testing, or sample submission, contact Avery Kotlarczyk, avery.kotlarczyk@geneticvisions.com, (608).662.9170 Ext. 3101

Source: STgenetics

Premier Select Sires Announces New Regional Sales Managers

Premier Select Sires welcomes two new Regional Sales Managers (RSM) to the management team, including Sean Johnson in the Central region and Kevin Lager in the Southwestern region. Each will transition into his new role in the coming weeks.

“Premier is excited to have Sean and Kevin take on leadership serving our member owners in the Central and Southwestern regions,” said Kirk Sattazahn, Vice President of Marketing and Development for Premier Select Sires. “Sean and Kevin have direct, practical experience at the farm level and both have demonstrated a tremendous ability to use their skills to help our customers achieve success.” 

Sean Johnson

Sean Johnson of Rohrersville, Md. will assume the role of Central RSM for Premier Select Sires. He will assist and oversee sales and support staff in the states of Pennsylvania, Maryland, and New Jersey.

Johnson has most recently served as an Area Sales Manager in Premier’s central region, serving counties in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. For the past five years, he has grown the Premier Select Sires brand in his area, working closely with support staff to better serve member-customers with Premier’s portfolio of semen, products, and programs.

Johnson holds more than 30 years of experience in the dairy industry. Before working for Premier as an Area Sales Manager, he served as an Assistant Herd Manager for Maple Dell Farm in Woodbine, Md.; a Dairy Herdsman for the Brad Garst farm in New Windsor, Md.; an independent fitter, and as the owner and operator of Mid Atlantic Hoof Care.

Johnson is a member of the National Judges List for all dairy breeds, and he serves as a volunteer with the Maryland 4-H dairy judging program. He attended the University of Maryland.

Kevin Lager

Kevin Lager of Rexford, Kan. will assume the role of Southwestern RSM for Premier Select Sires. He will assist and oversee sales and support staff in the states of Kansas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama.

Lager has most recently served as a Premier Select Sires Area Sales Manager in Kansas. For the past three years, he has excelled in both semen and product sales, administering and promoting Premier’s portfolio of beef and dairy solutions.

Prior to working with Premier, Lager was an Independent Sales Representative for Accelerated Genetics. He also has served as the Herdsman for his family’s dairy in Grinnell, Kan., a Dairy Field Specialist for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, and an Extension Associate for Texas AgriLife Extension Service. He holds a Master of Science degree in Ruminant Nutrition, a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture, and a minor in Agriculture Economics, all from Kansas State University.

Lager has volunteered his time to many agriculture and community organizations, including the Sheridan County 4-H, Kansas Farm Bureau, and the Sheridan County Library Board. Lager and his family currently reside on the family’s fifth-generation homestead and where they raise a small herd of Angus/Red Angus cows and white dorper sheep for 4-H projects. Lager also breeds and cares for breeding age heifers for his family’s dairy.

Current Central RSM Paul Knight plans to retire at the end of 2021. Current Southwestern RSM Ryan Bodenhausen recently accepted a position with the Select Sires Inc. Beef Department. Premier congratulates both Knight and Bodenhausen on these career changes and thanks them for their many contributions and years of dedicated service to the Premier Select Sires cooperative!

Celebrating JEDI’s successful career


S-S-I Suprsire Miri 8679-ET (EX-90-EX-MS-GMD-DOM), JEDI’s dam, was a standout and selected as a potential sire dam at a young age. She has since lived up to those expectations with tremendous classification and production records. JEDI’s sire, 7HO12165 MONTROSS, was also very young but equally as impressive. Both Miri and MONTROSS had high genomic data and stellar pedigrees. Miri was a descendent of Roylane Shot Mindy-ET (VG-86-VG-MS-DOM) while MONTROSS was a son of Unique-Style Bolton Money (EX-93-2E-EX-MS-GMD-DOM). The proven performance of their dams and sires instilled confidence in the mating of Miri and MONTROSS.

“JEDI was an impact sire of his time, and his influence will carry on through his sons and daughters,” said Jeff Ziegler, vice president of dairy cattle breeding at Select Sires Inc. “Over the years, Select Sires has been quite vocal about our belief in good cow families and science. JEDI was the result of both strategies. Genomic numbers combined with a spectacular pedigree to give us JEDI and his elite genetics have translated to many profitable daughters for dairy producers around the world.”

Today, JEDI has more than 26,000 daughters in 18 countries. He is one of only 40 active A.I. sires that transmits more than 2,000 pounds of milk and has a daughter count significantly greater than any other sire among that group. JEDI leaves behind a legacy with seven sons in Select Sires’ daughter-proven lineup and as the maternal grandsire of more than 55 sires. He has also been immortalized in one of Select Sires’ Impact Sires of the Breed prints. With over 600,000 units of lifetime sales and one of the fastest selling young sires in the A.I. cooperative’s history, JEDI has made his mark as Select Sires’ most popular genomic giant.

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