Learn about the new Holstein genetic evaluations for August 2024 and see how they’ll boost your farm’s fertility and productivity. Don’t miss out.
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Come August 2024, the Holstein Association USA is shaking things up with an updated Fertility Index, rolled out alongside the official genetic evaluations. This game-changing move follows a recommendation from the Genetic Advancement Committee and has received the green light from the HAUSA Board of Directors.
The revamped Fertility Index brings together multiple reproductive components into a unified measure, including:
- The ability to conceive as a maiden heifer
- The ability to conceive as a lactating cow
- The cow’s overall ability to resume cycling, show heat, conceive, and sustain a pregnancy
The new Fertility Index formula is:
FI = (0.4 x Daughter Pregnancy Rate) + (0.4 x Cow Conception Rate) + (0.1 x Heifer Conception Rate) + (0.1 x Early First Calving)
Significantly, this update involves a shift in weightings: The Daughter Pregnancy Rate has been scaled down from 0.7 to 0.4, while the Cow Conception Rate sees an increase from 0.1 to 0.4. This revamped Fertility Index is a crucial element of the Holstein Association USA’s Total Performance Index® (TPI®), a cornerstone for breeding decisions aimed at maximizing profit, efficiency, and fertility.
By focusing on TPI, dairy farmers can dramatically improve their bottom lines; the genetic excellence expressed by these high-TPI cows isn’t just a short-term advantage—it’s a legacy for future generations.
Curious to see the top-ranking animals, delve into sire summaries, or get the nitty-gritty on the TPI formula? Head over to www.holsteinusa.com/genetic_evaluations/GenUpdateMain.html for all the details.