By: Kevin Jorgensen, Sire Analyst, Select Sires Inc.
I am often asked with the advancements in technology and feeding, do genetics really matter anymore? The answer to that is a resounding yes! As we now live a world with higher feed costs and inputs, the cow that most efficiently uses those resources is the cow that adds more to the bottom line. The more of those we have versus cows that “take up space” the better off the dairy and ultimately the business is.
There perhaps has never been a time when genetics mattered more than now! As I have had the good fortune of traveling across the country and across the globe, the common denominators of the most successful and most productive dairies are:
#1, they have a clear vision of who they are and what they want their cows to be
#2, they use the best genetics to get them in that direction.
They didn’t all have the same breeding philosophy, which is not what I am suggesting, but they know the kind of cow that works best in their herd and they do all they can to propagate as many of those kind as possible.
Regardless of what traits are most important to your operation, go after them as aggressively as you can and even on the lower cows, use bulls that mirror your philosophy. If a chain is only as strong as its weakest link, a herd only gets better if the bottom is improving as well!
At Select Sires, there has never been a better selection of sires to meet the needs of every producer. Along with those sires, we have the tools available to help you meet your goals such as the SMS program and our evaluator staff, who are there to help you every step of the way. In addition, our professional sales and service staff have some of the best product knowledge in the industry.
Genetics have never been so important to all types of breeders these days and we’re excited at the continuing way we measure value in the bulls we provide. With ongoing genetic evaluation updates, the information and accuracy you receive helps you make a better, more profitable decision for your dairy with every straw that’s purchased. Genetics matter because we can pinpoint breed leaders. Genetics matter because we can accurately rank and sort available sires. Genetics matter because they help us achieve profound success in a short amount of time. It is truly the Select Sires mission to provide a “sire for every desire” and match the best genetics for your herd’s goals.
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