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Archive for A.I. Industry

Who Really Invented Artificial Insemination?

Sunday, December 22nd, 2024

Unveil the intriguing journey of artificial insemination. Who led the way in revolutionizing dairy farming? Discover the breakthroughs and advancements here.

Summary:

Artificial insemination isn’t just a scientific breakthrough; it’s a story that weaves through centuries of human curiosity, innovation, and determination. From the earliest anecdotal tales of Arabian tribes to researchers like Leeuwenhoek and Ivanow, A.I. reflects the quest to understand genetics. This rich history transcends borders, seeing key developments in countries like Russia, Japan, and the United States, each shaping today’s dairy industry. Pioneering efforts, lessons from nature, and relentless research have turned A.I. into an indispensable tool for modern dairy farming. It challenges us to think about A.I.’s future in agriculture. From historical observations and global innovations to modern implications, AI has enhanced genetic advancements and dairy production. AI has been vital to dairy farming, improving milk production through selective breeding traced back to ancient stories and early scientific achievements by Spallanzani, Heape, and Ivanow. Contributions from Japan, Denmark, and Italy in the 1930s further refined this technology.

Key Takeaways:

  • Artificial insemination (AI) in animals represents a significant human innovation inspired by natural processes observed in insects.
  • The foundational work of figures like Leeuwenhoek, Spallanzani, and Ivanow spearheaded the understanding and application of AI despite its gradual progression over the centuries.
  • Global efforts in Russia, Japan, Denmark, and Italy played pivotal roles in advancing AI technology and influencing its spread and effectiveness.
  • The development of semen storage methods, including yolk-based extenders and antibiotics, enabled A.I. to become a commercially viable option globally.
  • Technological advancements, such as cryopreservation and improved semen packaging, significantly enhanced the logistics and storage of genetic material, paving the way for contemporary practices.
  • A.I. democratized access to superior genetic traits in livestock, particularly dairy cows, transforming industry standards and capabilities in genetic selection.
  • Evaluation methods for sperm quality evolved, focusing on motility, morphology, and volume, crucial for ensuring the successful dissemination of desirable traits.
  • Sustainable practices in A.I. continue to evolve, balancing genetic advancements with environmental considerations in dairy farming.
artificial insemination, dairy farming, genetic selection, semen freezing, livestock quality, selective breeding, genomic selection, environmental sustainability, milk production, reproductive science

Imagine the transformative power of a technology that has been quietly revolutionizing dairy farming for years. Artificial insemination (AI) is not just a scientific concept but a game-changer in the industry. It empowers you to select the best genes for your herd, leading to superior milk production and healthier calves. This isn’t a distant dream; it’s a reality shaping the present of dairy farming. AI is not just a tool; it’s a beacon of hope for the future of dairy farming. 

From ancient breeders’ tales to the cutting-edge methods we employ today, AI has always been about pushing boundaries. It has fundamentally transformed the dairy industry, enhancing productivity and revolutionizing farming practices. The history of AI is not just a collection of old stories and experiments but a testament to human ingenuity and the relentless pursuit of progress that has shaped the dairy industry we know today.

The Natural Pioneers of Artificial Insemination: Lessons from the Hive

In nature, artificial insemination (AI) isn’t just a human invention; it’s a fundamental aspect of life, particularly in insects like bees. Bees employ AI when they gather nectar and pollinate plants. Their movement of pollen from one flower to another facilitates plant reproduction on a large scale, sustaining many plants and ecosystems. This seemingly simple process is similar to how humans use AI to breed animals. 

How bees work with flowers reminds us of how we can learn from nature. While bees mix plant genetics naturally, humans use AI in farming to improve crops and animals. For dairy farmers, watching nature has helped us develop better breeding programs. Now, we can choose the best traits in livestock, which has dramatically improved farming today.

From Tribal Legends to Scientific Breakthroughs: The Evolution of Artificial Insemination 

Diving into ancient stories, we find fascinating tales of early attempts at artificial insemination hidden in the stories of tribal rivalry. One repeated story tells of Arab horse breeders who would sneak into enemy camps—not to steal horses—but to gather the sperm of champion stallions. They used this sperm to inseminate their mares, hoping to breed strong winners from afar. While these stories might seem more like legends than facts, they show an early idea of selective breeding, a practice that would become scientific much later. 

The transition of artificial insemination from myth to science marks a significant milestone in its history. This shift was not immediate but a result of years of study and discovery. By the 17th century, scientists like Leeuwenhoek began delving into the microscopic world, observing tiny ‘animalcules’ or sperm. These discoveries formed the basis for the scientific pursuit of AI, replacing myths with empirical research. This thirst for knowledge led to a scientific understanding of reproduction, paving the way for the methods used in the 19th and 20th centuries. As dreams turned into experiments, new pioneers emerged, ready to turn stories into reality. The rigorous research supplanted the mythical beginnings of AI, eager to harness this power to enhance agriculture.

Through the Lens of a Draper: The Unseen Genesis of Artificial Insemination 

The journey into the artificial insemination of animals started not in scientific labs but with a curious Dutch cloth maker named Antonie van Leeuwenhoek. He was famous for making lenses that let scientists see tiny organisms for the first time. His discovery of “animalcules,” now known as sperm, was a huge step in understanding reproduction. Leeuwenhoek’s fantastic skill in making microscopes gave scientists the tools to explore life’s tiny details. This critical shift prepared the way for artificial insemination (AI) in animals. 

Lazzaro Spallanzani, an Italian priest turned scientist, wasn’t satisfied with watching life’s building blocks; he wanted to work with them. In 1784, he successfully artificially inseminated a dog, putting theory into practice. His big experiment showed that sperm could be preserved and used later to inseminate a female dog. This was the first time anyone showed that humans could help sperm and eggs meet without natural mating. 

As the timeline moves forward, so does our understanding. Walter Heape, a reproductive scientist from Britain, was a key figure in connecting early efforts with modern science. He did more than just experiments. He studied how animals breed in different seasons and how this relates to fertility. His work helped us understand how an animal’s environment affects its reproduction ability. This was not just academic knowledge; it helped shape modern reproductive management and AI methods. 

The work of these early scientists forms a key trio that guided people through the challenges of understanding reproduction. Leeuwenhoek’s microscope gave the world a way to see reproduction at the cellular level. Spallanzani’s daring experiments showed that it could be applied in real life. Heape’s biological studies ensured that AI became a proven scientific method. The work of these pioneers has been vital in transforming AI from a scientific curiosity to a widely used tool in systematic breeding today.

Russia’s Revolutionary Compiler of Genetic Codes: Ivanow’s AI Transformation 

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Russia witnessed a significant transformation in animal breeding thanks to the innovative ideas of Ivanow. His contributions to artificial insemination (AI) were far-reaching, as he developed new animal breeding methods that propelled Russia to the forefront of AI advancements. 

Ivanow invented semen extenders, which were essential for keeping sperm healthy on long trips. These extenders helped spread good genes over large areas, improving breeding programs and livestock quality. 

Seeing the need for skilled workers, Ivanow started training programs. He taught technicians how to select the best stallions, ensuring that breeding animals were more substantial and improved. This allowed good traits to spread quickly. 

Ivanow’s ideas reached beyond Russia. They inspired research worldwide and encouraged scientists like Japan’s Dr. Ishikawa to start similar projects. His work ignited interest and helped spread new reproductive biology technologies worldwide. 

Ivanow’s legacy includes not only his technical skills but also his long-term impact on global agriculture. By improving semen preservation and training, he laid a solid foundation for artificial intelligence, which led to significant genetic improvements in animal reproduction and greatly influenced this science field for years.

The Era of Global Diffusion and Innovation: Japan, Denmark, and Italy Transform AI.

After the Russian breakthroughs in artificial insemination (AI), the world experienced new ideas and techniques. Japan, Denmark, and Italy made significant contributions. This period was about sharing knowledge and technology, which led to developments that forever changed the dairy industry. 

Ivanow’s work inspired Dr. Ishikawa in Japan, where they began an AI program with horses in 1912. When he returned, he expanded AI to cattle, sheep, goats, swine, and poultry. Although language barriers kept this knowledge within Japan for a while, translations by Niwa and Nishikawa later opened these breakthroughs to the rest of the world. 

Denmark was an early leader in dairy farming. Eduard Sorensen and Gylling-Holm from the Royal Veterinary College started the first cooperative dairy AI group 1936. Their efforts showed that AI worked slightly better, with a 59% success rate in cows, than natural breeding. This success helped spread AI to the United States and other Western countries. 

In Denmark, the rectovaginal fixation technique was a significant innovation. It allowed accurate placement of semen deep in the cervix or uterus, making sperm usage more efficient. Danish innovation also led to the creation of semen straws. Originally made from oat straws, these were updated to cellophane straws after a clever idea from a birthday party observation. Cassou later commercialized them, influencing AI worldwide. 

In Italy, progress in AI was driven by Amantea and Bonadonna. They developed an artificial vagina for dogs and promoted research across different species. These efforts resulted in international cooperation, highlighted by the first International Congress on AI and Animal Reproduction in Milan in 1948. This event unified scientific goals and established AI essential for agricultural and veterinary advancement. 

The combination of ideas from various countries and old and new methods paved the way for today’s AI practices. Each nation contributed unique ideas and technologies, setting a course for improved efficiency and genetics in dairy farming.

America’s AI Revolution: A Decade of Innovation and Industry Transformation

The 1940s in America were crucial for artificial insemination (AI). AI wasn’t just about using new technology; it was about transforming the dairy industry and setting new standards for breeding worldwide. Farmers who were used to traditional methods suddenly found themselves in a new world where science played a significant role in farming. 

This change started with AI cooperatives, which were like a movement led by people who saw the potential of AI to transform dairy farming. 1938, the first AI cooperative began in New Jersey, inspired by Denmark’s success. Soon after, another cooperative started in New York, paving the way for a network that spread nationwide. 

These cooperatives were more than just organizations; they were partnerships between farmers and researchers. They allowed farmers to work directly with experts like Cornell University to boost productivity. This teamwork involved large-scale testing of insemination techniques, focusing on choosing the correct sires and refining semen handling to increase fertility. 

Such efforts led to significant improvements in evaluating semen quality. They standardized the assessment of sperm health and movement, which was crucial for ensuring that AI worked effectively in the market. 

The cooperative model was also great for spreading access to top genetics. Farmers of all financial backgrounds could use the best breeding animals. This approach quickly improved the quality of milk production across many herds, showing AI’s power to level the agricultural playing field. 

So, the 1940s were more than just a time of change; they showed how science and teamwork could update old farming methods into modern successes. AI in America became a symbol of progress in farming and demonstrated the impact of innovative partnerships in transforming an entire industry.

The Magnifying Glass: Evaluating the Silent Architects of Genetic Progress

Checking semen quality is essential for artificial insemination, especially in the dairy industry. To understand semen quality, you must see how many sperm move correctly. This needs precise tools, like a good microscope, to look closely. The main things checked are sperm movement, concentration, and volume, all crucial for successful insemination. 

Frozen semen complicates things. It’s essential to check how well sperm survive after being thawed. During semen checking, measuring the ejaculate volume and sperm concentration is key. Accuracy is crucial. Initially, people used graduated containers, but now, weight is often used for more detailed results. 

Moving forward, the invention of semen extenders marked tremendous progress in AI technology. At first, the challenge was keeping semen good long enough for shipping and use in different places. This led to yolk-phosphate extenders, and Salisbury and others improved them with sodium citrate to keep the egg yolk stable. These improvements kept semen valid for up to three days at 5°C, making it useful worldwide in cattle breeding. 

Later, adding glycerol for freezing changed AI a lot, making long-term semen storage possible. As specific bull semen became more in demand, finding ways to make each ejaculate go further was essential. Lowering the sperm needed per insemination to 4 million per dose changed things significantly. Moving from calling it “dilution” to “extension” better described the process, showing it improved rather than lessened semen’s value. 

These developments, especially using egg yolk-based extenders, significantly increased the practicality and efficiency of AI, setting new industry standards. The many doses each bull could provide, together with better sperm survival over distances and time, led to a new era of genetic improvement in dairy cattle. This wasn’t just a technical success but key for advancing breeding programs and boosting dairy production efficiency.

From Frosty Beginnings: Cryopreservation’s Cold War on Dairy Genetics

The discovery of semen freezing is a big deal for the dairy industry. It changed breeding methods and helped improve cattle genetics like never before. Scientists found a way to freeze chicken sperm using glycerol, a protective chemical, and soon used the same technique for bull sperm. This shielded the sperm during freezing. 

This new method allowed sperm to be stored for a long time at -196°C, as frozen sperm stays stable. It also allowed breeders to send cattle genetics over long distances and organize breeding programs using the best bull genes without worrying about the sperm’s shelf life. 

But getting here wasn’t easy. Frozen sperm was first stored in glass tubes that often broke. Innovators like Cassou made stronger and easier-to-use plastic straws instead. They also created a unique tool for using these straws in breeding, making it practical for farmers. 

Another big step was switching from solid carbon dioxide to liquid nitrogen. This kept the temperature low enough to keep sperm healthy for a long time. At first, liquid nitrogen tanks needed constant refills, which was a hassle. Thanks to investments from people like J. Rockefeller Prentice, companies improved these tanks, making them more efficient. 

Cryopreservation, or freezing sperm, has dramatically changed the dairy industry. Large farms can now plan and improve their herds’ genetics to increase productivity and profits. This process starts with the precise art and science of storing and managing sperm.

Genetic Alchemy: How AI Empowered Dairy Farmers to Rewrite the Blueprint of Milk Production

The shift brought by artificial insemination (AI) changed how dairy farmers pick the best bulls, making it possible for all farmers to obtain top-quality genetics. Before AI, only the wealthy could afford the best bulls. With AI, everyone could access these, leveling the playing field. 

As AI grew, scientists developed better ways to choose bulls based on their genetic potential. Genomic selection became vital, using DNA markers to predict a young bull’s value before it had offspring, which sped up breeding and genetic improvements. 

Progeny testing was once the best way to judge bulls, assessing them based on their daughters’ performance. But this was slow. As AI progressed, new methods gave more precise tests for a bull’s worth in areas beyond milk production, like fertility and health. This helped farmers better select traits to boost herd productivity and resilience. 

In short, AI improved dairy genetics, giving farmers control over their herds’ future and setting the stage for today’s advanced dairy farming, which is based on high-producing cattle.

Navigating the AI Odyssey: Balancing Genetics, Sustainability, and Technology in Modern Dairy Farming 

As we look forward to new technology in the dairy industry, artificial insemination (AI) remains a crucial tool. It helps farmers improve the genetic quality of their herds and increase productivity. However, the journey is not complete. Today’s AI landscape is complex and brings new challenges that we must address creatively. 

Combining AI with genetics has recently opened up tremendous possibilities in selective breeding. This combination allows farmers to choose traits like disease resistance and milk production accurately. But there are challenges. Relying on the same top genetic lines worldwide could lead to less genetic diversity, making herds vulnerable to new issues. 

Environmental sustainability is also essential in modern dairy farming. As consumers want more eco-friendly farming, AI must help sustainable agriculture grow. AI can decrease the environmental impact by improving how animals convert feed and reducing methane emissions from milk production. However, achieving these goals requires research, policy support, and investment in farmer education. 

Automation and digital tools could significantly improve AI in dairy farming. Precision farming, using sensors and data, can improve timing and efficiency in insemination. AI programs could provide real-time insights into cow health to reduce mistakes and improve breeding. However, challenges exist, like high costs, the need for technical skills, and concerns about data privacy. 

Ultimately, the future of AI in dairy farming is full of opportunities and responsibilities. As we move forward, it’s crucial to balance technology with preserving genetic diversity and to stay committed to sustainability and ethical practices. Dairy industry leaders have the power to create a future where innovation aligns with environmental health and productivity thrives. 

The Bottom Line

The journey from old myths to modern farming shows our endless curiosity and drive to improve. From watching nature to inventing new science, this history highlights our effort to understand and control life. The development of artificial insemination (AI) has changed farming, especially in improving genetics and crops. 

But as we move forward, we must ask: How far can we go—or should we go—with these technologies? While they bring bigger crops and more money, we must consider what’s right and good for the planet. Can we handle controlling life better than understanding its effects? For today’s dairy farmers and farming experts, this isn’t just about getting the most milk and efficiency. It’s also a conversation about old ways, science, and ensuring we have food for the future.

Learn more:

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Bullvine Daily is your essential e-zine for staying ahead in the dairy industry. With over 30,000 subscribers, we bring you the week’s top news, helping you manage tasks efficiently. Stay informed about milk production, tech adoption, and more, so you can concentrate on your dairy operations. 

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Charlie Will Receives CentralStar Cooperative Pioneer Award

Wednesday, December 18th, 2024
The CentralStar Cooperative Board of Directors, representing member-stockowners across Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana, is pleased to announce Charlie Will, Marysville, Ohio, as the recipient of the 2024 Pioneer Award.
The CentralStar Cooperative Board of Directors, representing member-stockowners across Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana, is pleased to announce Charlie Will, Marysville, Ohio, as the recipient of the 2024 Pioneer Award.

The CentralStar Cooperative Board of Directors, representing member-stockowners across Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana, is pleased to announce Charlie Will, Marysville, Ohio, as the recipient of the 2024 Pioneer Award. (Courtesy Photo)

LANSING, Mich. — The CentralStar Cooperative Board of Directors, representing member-stockowners across Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana, is pleased to announce Charlie Will, Marysville, Ohio, as the recipient of the 2024 Pioneer Award. Established in 1977, the Pioneer Award honors individuals whose dedication and leadership have significantly advanced the cooperative and its members’ success.

“For more than four decades, Charlie’s passion and leadership elevated the genetics available to dairy producers across the globe,” shared CentralStar Board of Directors President Paul Trierweiler, Westphalia, Mich. “His unwavering commitment to improving the economic possibilities of producers has left a permanent mark on our cooperative and the dairy industry.”

Born and raised on a southern-Illinois dairy farm, Will’s passion for cattle led him to a sales role at Michigan Animal Breeders Cooperative (MABC), now CentralStar Cooperative. Will’s career began with cold calls and closed doors as the first sales representative in northeastern Wisconsin. While initially faced with resistance, his persistence and dedication built a loyal customer base, paving the way for the growth of the cooperative.

In 1978 Will joined Select Sires, Inc. as an assistant sire analyst and later became Holstein sire program manager, having a hand in shaping the genetics of the Holstein breed. Under his leadership, iconic dairy bulls such as 7HO980 MARK, 7HO1897 BLACKSTAR, 7HO6417 O MAN, 7HO5157 DURHAM, 7HO2236 ELTON, 7HO1118 ROTATE, and 7HO5708 BLITZ set new standards. “Bulls like these truly made a difference for dairymen,” reflected Will, “and that’s what I’m most proud of.”

Through decades of work, Will helped shape Select Sires’ legacy, while staying focused on one key goal: to improve the economic viability of dairy producers across the globe. His legacy is one of dedication and a deep commitment to serving dairy producers, traits that have left a lasting imprint on the industry.

CentralStar’s mission of enhancing producer profitability through integrated solutions for mutual success 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. The cooperative serves dairy and beef producers throughout Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana, with additional DHI territory in various surrounding states. For more information, visit CentralStar Cooperative Inc. at www.mycentralstar.com.

Categories : A.I. Industry

ABS Acquires De Novo: Strategic Move for Sale or Survival?

Saturday, September 28th, 2024

Why did ABS buy De Novo? Is it a survival tactic or part of a bigger plan? Find out more.

The recent purchase of De Novo by ABS has sent waves across the dairy farming business. For those who study trends, this shift presents a critical question: Is this a deliberate move for future expansion or an indication that ABS is preparing for a sale? The stakes are high, and the consequences are significant. This is not simply another commercial deal; it can change the competitive environment. But what does this entail for the stakeholders? Everyone believes they are broke, particularly after the significant staff cuts earlier this year. However, purchases like De Novo may signal that something far more significant is at work.

The timing and circumstances of this transaction raise several questions. On the one hand, it might represent ABS’s effort to strengthen its genetics portfolio and stay competitive in a changing industry. On the other hand, it may be arranging itself nicely for sale, presenting all its assets in a clean, enticing package. This could benefit stakeholders significantly, offering them a brighter future in the industry.

To understand the full scope, let’s break down the components: 

  • Consolidation of intellectual property.
  • Potential market strategy shifts.
  • Industry rumors and speculations.

As we explore these aspects more, it’s crucial to consider what this implies for you and your company. Is ABS laying the groundwork for innovation, or are they prepared to transfer the baton? Understanding these implications is vital for your company’s future decisions and strategies.

What’s the Real Strategy Behind ABS Global’s Recent Moves and What Could They Mean for Stakeholders and Potential Investors

ABS Global, a subsidiary of UK-based Genus PLC, has recently been navigating turbulent seas. Earlier this year, the corporation cut off many of its personnel, stoking speculation of financial difficulties. Industry insiders have speculated if ABS is on the verge of collapse. However, the current purchase has provided an exciting twist to the narrative.

Genus PLC, recognized for its diverse interests in swine genetics and biotechnology, has long sought to increase pig production efficiency. Their significant efforts in swine research have resulted in improved, more inexpensive protein production—a vital need in today’s global market. This strategy shift has fueled speculation that Genus may emphasize its successful swine business and sell off its meat and dairy divisions. Enter the chatter about Chinese purchasers.

Why is China interested in ABS’ swine technology? The solution is found in the need for protein and cost efficiency. China’s enormous population is constantly struggling to create enough inexpensive protein. ABS’s superior swine technology may be the answer, enabling Chinese farmers to modify pig genetics for increased protein production easily. This technology isn’t just about satisfying immediate requirements; it’s also about future-proofing against rising demand as China’s middle class grows.

If the reports are accurate, savvy investors may see a jackpot. Genus intends to unload these areas to concentrate on swine technology. With China’s booming market in mind, these assets would be stunning. Furthermore, some believe ABS’s recent layoffs and strategic purchases are preparation actions. These actions make ABS a more appealing investment or connect more closely with Genus’ swine-focused objectives.

Who Could Be Eyeing ABS Global Next? The Strategic Arms Race Between URUS and STgen

Regarding prospective ABS purchasers, two names stand out: URUS and STgen. Both have different objectives and strategic goals that profit significantly from the purchase.

URUS: This corporation, already a dairy and cattle genetics industry behemoth, has lately made significant financial advances. They received support from UK bankers CVC, indicating they are preparing for something huge. Could they be planning to buy ABS? Is this consistent with their “complete solution” approach? URUS is now dominant in genetics but underrepresented in feed and nutrition. Adding ABS to their portfolio may bring the same advantages as expanding into feed and nutrition sectors, providing a full range of services to dairy producers and growing market share.

STgen, on the other hand, has acquired a sizable fortune from its intellectual property in sexed semen. It has been a market leader in that segment. Interestingly, ABS already has a sexed semen product, so this may seem paradoxical. However, the purchase may exacerbate STgen’s monopolistic fears. At the same time, the company awaits the US government’s judgment on its merger with Select Sires. Owning ABS might lead to severe antitrust difficulties.

The Critical Question: Can ABS Global Regain Its Former Glory?

ABS Global’s market dominance waned during the 2000s, which is no secret. ABS was once a dominant force in the dairy business in the United States. Still, substantial reductions have been seen in recent years. This raises the question: where does ABS fit today?

ABS Global has taken exact steps to recover some control. They have been active in their pursuit of intellectual property. Why is this important? In today’s market, having complete control over product creation is critical. Companies such as Alta Genetics with their Peak program, STgen with their program, and Select Sires and Semex with their separate programs share one feature: They have complete control over their female programs from beginning to end.

So, what does this imply for ABS? This approach allows ABS to control its product development entirely, making it more appealing to prospective customers. This is especially important if they want to sell. Demonstrating ownership and control over manufacturing is a significant selling factor.

ABS’s recent purchase of De Novo supports this plan. Initially, the agreement was pricey, securing Desu’s genetic influence. However, owning De Novo removes expensive royalties and enables ABS to incorporate this intellectual property into its business fully. It’s more than simply a cost-cutting measure; it’s a deliberate move to improve their market share.

While ABS may no longer have the clout, it once had in the 2000s, its purchase of intellectual property and efforts to regain total control over product development are deliberate steps toward reclaiming its industry relevance. This potential for resurgence makes ABS an intriguing player, sparking interest in its future trajectory.

Looking Ahead: What Does the Acquisition of De Novo Imply for ABS Global’s Future? 

Looking forward, the purchase of De Novo represents a major strategic shift for ABS Global. This measure might boost ABS’s attractiveness to prospective purchasers. By acquiring complete control of De Novo, ABS acquires exclusive access to significant intellectual property, notably genetic developments. This represents them as a more self-sufficient and inventive organization, resulting in a better market value. Consequently, the dairy and beef segments may witness a change in emphasis, leading us to the next important question: will they keep, divest, or reform these sectors?

This purchase might simplify operations for the dairy sector and enable more consistent genetic improvements, aligning ABS with industry leaders such as STgen and URUS. A buyer interested in dairy genetics may view this as a chance to profit from ABS’s newly discovered capabilities.

The swine market may benefit from a targeted emphasis on genetic excellence. However, suppose reports regarding ABS’s divestment intentions are accurate. In that case, the future of the company’s swine operations might be wholly dependent on another firm. This might lead to specialist swine genetics businesses targeting Genus/PIC for purchase.

The more significant implications for the sector are compelling: an ABS focused on innovation and control may force rivals to boost their game. Dairy producers and experts may have access to cutting-edge genetic tools and increased herd performance. In contrast, selling the cattle and dairy divisions may generate new dynamics as various industry participants take over. In any case, the dairy and beef genetics landscape is likely to change significantly.

The Bottom Line

ABS’s ownership of De Novo resolves some of the conjectures regarding their future but still leaves many concerns unexplained. The purchase indicates a goal to consolidate intellectual property and reclaim control over product development, which might make them an intriguing acquisition target. ABS’s recent troubles and layoffs starkly contrast this investment, indicating a complicated, multifaceted approach. ABS’s efforts to establish a niche in a competitive field may signal either a new age of growth or a planned departure strategy. What are your thoughts?

Key Takeaways:

  • ABS Global’s acquisition of De Novo sparks speculations about its financial status and possible sale.
  • Market rumors suggest ABS is focused on its swine operations and may sell off its beef and dairy segments.
  • Potential buyers like URUS and STgen could be strategic fits for ABS’s dairy and beef sectors.
  • Acquiring De Novo gives ABS greater control over its product development, possibly making it more appealing to investors.
  • The move aligns ABS with the industry trend of owning and developing proprietary female programs.
  • ABS has experienced a market position decline since the ’90s; this acquisition could be a step toward regaining some lost ground.

Summary:

In the ever-evolving world of agribusiness, ABS Global’s recent acquisition of De Novo raises eyebrows and sparks intense speculation. This move comes on the heels of significant staffing layoffs and leads many to question the company’s financial health and strategic direction. Are they broke and desperate, or is this a calculated move to make the company more attractive for sale? Rumors swirl that Genus, ABS Global’s parent company, may be preparing for a significant deal with Chinese buyers, specifically interested in Genus’s intellectual property related to swine operations. On the other hand, giants like URUS and STgen could be positioning themselves to acquire ABS’s beef and dairy segments, adding even more intrigue to the unfolding drama. When it comes to agricultural markets, strategic acquisitions often signal deeper intentions and future transformations in market dynamics. The timing and circumstances of the transaction raise several questions, including whether ABS is consolidating intellectual property, preparing for market strategy shifts, and presenting all assets in a clean package. ABS, a subsidiary of Genus PLC, known for its diverse interests in swine genetics and biotechnology, aims to enhance pig production efficiency, attracting China’s interest due to its need for cost-effective protein production. This acquisition could make ABS more appealing to prospective buyers or align it more closely with Genus’ swine-focused objectives.

Learn more:

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Bullvine Daily is your essential e-zine for staying ahead in the dairy industry. With over 30,000 subscribers, we bring you the week’s top news, helping you manage tasks efficiently. Stay informed about milk production, tech adoption, and more, so you can concentrate on your dairy operations. 

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ABS Strengthens Genetic Portfolio with Full Ownership of De Novo

Friday, September 27th, 2024

ABS’s full ownership of De Novo Genetics boosts dairy innovation and profitability. How will this strategic move impact your dairy operations?

Summary:

ABS Global has taken a significant step forward by attaining full ownership of De Novo Genetics LLC, marking a monumental milestone in its quest for genetic excellence. This strategic investment not only underlines ABS’s commitment to advancing genetic progress but also ensures full control over its dairy genetics engine, promising faster innovation and enhanced product quality. Jeff Low, ABS COO, emphasized, “This investment enables us to deliver on our commitment to excellence, allowing us to innovate faster, improve quality, and respond effectively to the needs of our customers.” Established as a joint venture with De-Su Holsteins in 2016, De Novo has introduced over 800 bulls into the market, with the highest quality genetics still in the pipeline. As ABS incorporates these genetics into its strategic framework, dairy farmers can expect an influx of superior traits, improved profitability, and access to cutting-edge technologies like CRISPR, ensuring a wider choice of customized product solutions. Operational adjustments include relocating most ABS embryo donors to ABS facilities for better quality standards while continuing to collaborate with third-party facilities like De-Su Holsteins.

Key Takeaways: 

  • Enhanced Innovation: Full ownership allows ABS to accelerate product development and innovation, meeting customer demands more efficiently.
  • Stronger Control: ABS gains complete control over De Novo Genetics, ensuring alignment with its long-term strategic goals.
  • Ongoing Partnership: Despite full ownership, ABS will continue collaborations with entities like De-Su Holsteins to advance genetic progress.
  • Increased Genetic Development: Most embryo donors will be housed at ABS facilities, streamlining the genetic enhancement process.
  • Commitment to Quality: ABS’s investment underscores its dedication to delivering superior genetics and maintaining industry leadership.
dairy genetics, ABS Global acquisition, De Novo Genetics, genetic development, bovine genetics technology, CRISPR genomic techniques, next-generation sequencing, genetic selection process, improved bull performance, agricultural innovation

ABS Global’s recent purchase of full ownership of De Novo Genetics LLC demonstrates its steadfast commitment to genetic development. Technological developments customized to market demands are also on the way. “This investment enables us to deliver on our commitment to excellence, allowing us to innovate faster, improve quality, and respond effectively to the needs of our customers,” said Jim Low, ABS’s chief operating officer.

ABS Global Reinforces Industry Leadership with Strategic Full Ownership of De Novo Genetics

ABS Global Inc. (ABS) has long been a leader in bovine genetics and is dedicated to promoting dairy and beef genetics worldwide. ABS has maintained its position as a key industry leader by relentlessly pursuing genetic quality and innovation.

In 2016, ABS took a significant step in its genetic development objective by forming De Novo Genetics LLC with De-Su Holsteins, a highly regarded dairy farm company in New Albin, Iowa. This cooperative venture has played a crucial role in establishing a solid foundation for dairy genetics and improving the genetic options accessible to dairy producers, contributing significantly to ABS’s growth.

Since its inception, De Novo Genetics has made significant strides in developing an impressive roster of over 800 dairy bulls. These bulls have successfully entered the market via ABS or are awaiting their debut. Among these outstanding sires, ENTITY and VENTURE stand out as daughter-proven sires. At the same time, BENEFIT and LEEDS are the promising young bulls in their inventory. These initiatives have bolstered ABS’s status as a top source of high-quality dairy genetics and demonstrated the success and impact of De Novo Genetics.

The Strategic Importance of ABS’s Full Ownership of De Novo Genetics 

ABS’s complete ownership of De Novo Genetics is a strategic move that aligns with its long-term product strategy and unwavering commitment to genetic development. This decision allows ABS to have direct control over a crucial component of its genetic engine, ensuring alignment and eliminating competing agendas.

ABS’s full control over De Novo Genetics brings several benefits. It accelerates decision-making, leading to faster innovation and adoption of new technology. This control also allows ABS to seamlessly integrate De Novo’s high-quality genetics into its product line, creating a more unified and rapid development environment.

Furthermore, the strategic decision allows ABS to maintain and improve the quality of its genetic supplies. ABS has complete control of De Novo, allowing it to manage all aspects of product development, from early research to final market release. This monitoring guarantees that the company’s high standards are maintained and that genetic advancements are accomplished without compromise.

The advantages of this transaction extend to ABS’s clients, who will benefit from faster genetic developments and a wider choice of customized product solutions. By maximizing De Novo’s genetic potential, ABS is poised to provide farmers with bulls with more excellent performance, improved health features, and increased profitability. This is an exciting time for our clients, as they can look forward to a future of enhanced genetic solutions that meet their specific needs.

Finally, ABS’s complete ownership of De Novo aligns with its strategic aims of leading the industry in genetic excellence and innovation. It strengthens the company’s position as a leader in dairy genetics, ensuring further success and revolutionary improvements for its worldwide client base.

Appreciating Partnerships and Embracing Future Innovations: ABS’s Strategic Takeover of De Novo Genetics

“We would like to thank Darin and the entire Meyer family for their great partnership and strong support over these years, and we wish them continued success as we work together,” says Katie Olson, ABS Senior Director, Global Bovine Product Development.

“We are excited to take full control of De Novo, a critical component of our long-term product strategy,” says Jim Low, CEO of ABS. “This investment helps us to deliver on our promise to excellence by helping us to develop quicker, increase quality, and more effectively meet our customers’ demands. Our team is actively working on additional features and upgrades to differentiate De Novo in the market.”

ABS’s Vision for the Future: Pushing the Boundaries of Bovine GeneticsABS intends to use cutting-edge technologies to push the frontiers of what is possible in bovine genetics. ABS intends to speed the creation of high-performance genetic characteristics by investing in breakthrough genomic techniques such as CRISPR and next-generation sequencing technology. This accelerates the invention cycle and improves the accuracy and quality of existing genetic products. Consider the possibilities: faster-growing, healthier, and more productive herds suited to the specific demands of dairy producers.

Furthermore, ABS plans to use advanced data analytics and machine learning algorithms to improve its genetic selection process. These technologies will allow farmers to make more exact forecasts about genetic potential, ensuring they maximize their investment. Understanding patterns and trends in genetic data allows ABS to give practical solutions tailored to particular farm needs.

One promising area of growth is the advancement of embryo transfer procedures. ABS intends to improve In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Embryo Transfer (ET) techniques, boosting efficiency and success rates. This will increase the number of high-quality calves born yearly, accelerating genetic progress in dairy herds.

These technical breakthroughs allow ABS to respond more quickly to market needs, ensuring their products stay at the forefront of genetic progress. This means higher yields, improved milk quality, and more profitability for dairy producers. The future of dairy production is bright, with ABS and De Novo leading the way in genetic innovation.

Revolutionizing Operations: Strategic Relocation and Enhanced Collaboration

Following the purchase, we anticipate many substantial operational adjustments consistent with ABS’s strategic aims. One of the most significant improvements will be relocating most ABS embryo donors to ABS facilities, resulting in tighter control and better quality standards. Furthermore, third-party facilities such as De-Su Holsteins will continue to play an essential role in creating a collaborative environment for genetic progress.

On the ground, this implies that thousands of ET (Embryo Transfer) and IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) calves will continue to be born every year across a growing coalition of cooperator recipient herds. This network of herds is critical because it provides the infrastructure required to expand genetic breakthroughs and fulfill the expectations of dairy producers worldwide.

These operational changes reflect ABS’s larger vision for the future, in which genetic development is not just a goal but a must. ABS intends to expedite genetic advancements by combining and streamlining its facilities and collaborations, resulting in practical advantages for dairy farmers.

The Bottom Line

ABS’s purchase of De Novo Genetics is more than a business move; it demonstrates the company’s dedication to pushing the frontiers of dairy genetics. This transfer gives ABS complete control over De Novo’s operations, resulting in speedier innovation and quality improvements. With complete ownership, ABS is better positioned to address customer demands and increase dairy profitability via superior genetic innovations.

Consider this: if ABS adds De Novo’s high-quality genetics to its inventory, what does this imply for the future of your herd? The sector is about to undergo a massive upheaval, and those that remain ahead of the curve will surely gain. Remain connected and educated, and, most importantly, be ready to use these innovations to improve your dairy farming operations.

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The Legacy of Edg RUBICON: How a Pioneering Sire Transformed ST Genetics and the Dairy Industry

Monday, September 23rd, 2024

How did Edg RUBICON transform dairy farming forever? Discover his legacy and impact on the industry.

dairy production, Edg RUBICON-ET, STgenetics, genetic profile, TPI sire, NM$ sire, gender-sorted sperm, dairy breeding, genomics in breeding, sustainable dairy farming

The dairy industry mourns the passing of a giant. Edg RUBICON-ET, the bull that altered STgenetics and revolutionized dairy production, has died. His impact on the industry and his contribution to STgenetics’ early success are incalculable. Join us as we look at RUBICON’s extraordinary impact, from his groundbreaking contributions to gender-sorted sperm technology to his long-lasting legacy in genomics, as well as how RUBICON shaped the genetic landscape of dairy farming and spearheaded advances in sustainability and profitability. “RUBICON was a standout from the beginning, and as one of the first sires available in gender-sorted semen, he helped prove the value of this innovative technology to the global market,” said Juan F. Moreno, CEO and founder of STgen. Join us as we commemorate this famous sire’s legacy and reflect on the lessons he left for future dairy producers.

Remember the First Time You Heard About the Rubicon? 

Remember when you first heard about RUBICON? It’s like recalling the early days when a rookie became a legend. RUBICON was founded to set new standards for dairy breeding.

RUBICON was born with a superb genetic profile, instantly drawing dairy specialists’ attention. He has all of the characteristics of a game-changer from the start. But what distinguishes him? Juan F. Moreno, CEO and creator of STgenetics® said, “RUBICON was a standout from the start due to his genomic package. We realized we had something special on our hands.

Within his first several years, RUBICON swiftly progressed through the ranks. He wasn’t simply one of many sires. He was the top TPI (Total Performance Index) and NM$ sire, demonstrating the quality of his genetic package. This sparked a surge of hope and enthusiasm among breeders who saw the potential of their herds. His early success may be measured as over 38,000 daughters in 6,200 herds, counting [source]. This is not just remarkable; it’s incredible. Imagine the dependability and stability he gave to several dairy farms. It was like a domino effect, except for cows and milk outputs.

RUBICON’s impact grew beyond numbers as additional farms adopted his genetics. His fast acceptance demonstrated the breeders’ faith in him. According to studies, RUBICON helped demonstrate the importance of gender-sorted sperm. Technology, which was once in its infancy, has evolved into a trusted instrument, owing mainly to one bull demonstrating its promise. He was a pioneer among sires, forging a new, more efficient way across genetically unexplored territory.

There’s no doubt that RUBICON has had a pivotal role in influencing the future of dairy breeding. His early days serve as a reminder that sometimes you can tell when something—or someone—is destined for greatness.

Celebrating Rubicon’s Pioneering Legacy 

When considering Rubicon’s pioneering achievements, it is hard to miss his essential involvement in the field of gender-sorted sperm. He was a pioneer in the field, selling approximately 500,000 doses of gender-sorted semen. This breakthrough enabled dairy producers worldwide to attain more predictable and lucrative herd compositions, dramatically improving herd management procedures.

Furthermore, Rubicon demonstrated the power of genomics with great success. As a previous #1 TPI and NM$ sire, he confirmed using genetic data in breeding operations, as shown by his 38,000 daughters scattered throughout over 6,200 herds. His genetic blueprint resulted in exceptional offspring performance, confirming his top NM$ ranking among sires with over 30,000 daughters.

Rubicon also helped to make dairy farming more sustainable. As a renowned EcoFeed® sire, he was at the forefront of feed conversion efficiency, encouraging sustainability and profitability. This emphasis on eco-responsibility reflects his legacy of advocating for a more sustainable dairy sector.

The Rubicon’s inventions and successes influenced genetic developments and established new industrial norms. His tremendous and far-reaching influence continues to resound throughout the dairy farming sector.

Rubicon’s Influence: A Global Beacon of Genetic Excellence 

RUBICON’s impact extended beyond boundaries, reaching dairy farms all over the globe thanks to its remarkable genetic brilliance. His robust production profile and high components established a new benchmark for dairy breeding, improving herd performance worldwide. With almost 38,000 daughters in 6,200 herds, RUBICON’s genetic legacy is undeniable. He maintained his supremacy, ranking as the top NM$ sire in his age category among those having over 30,000 daughters in progeny proofs. Furthermore, RUBICON became the first industry sire to sell 500,000 doses of gender-sorted semen, demonstrating his worldwide popularity and long-term value in contemporary dairy production.

More Than Just Genetics: Rubicon’s Legacy in Sustainability and Profitability 

RUBICON was an expert in genetics and a pioneer in dairy farmer sustainability and profitability. His effect on feed conversion efficiency established a standard in the dairy sector. By enhancing the efficiency with which feed is converted into milk, RUBICON dramatically lowered feed expenditures, which account for a considerable amount of dairy farm expenses. This efficiency translates directly into lower carbon footprints since more excellent feed conversion requires fewer resources and produces less waste.

These developments resulted in substantial advantages for dairy farmers globally. For example, RUBICON’s offspring needed less nutrition to produce the same quantity of milk as daughters from other locations. This efficiency decreased operating costs and improved agricultural sustainability by reducing environmental impact. In a period when sustainability is just as important as profitability, RUBICON’s genetics provided a double edge, making him a top option for forward-thinking farmers.

Furthermore, his pioneering position as an EcoFeed® sire helped to promote environmentally beneficial methods. EcoFeed®-emphasized sires such as RUBICON promoted sustainable farming by choosing features that lead to better feed use. Consequently, farms that used these traits reported decreased feed inputs per unit of milk produced, which helped improve overall farm sustainability.

In short, RUBICON’s influence extended beyond genetic brilliance; he advocated for techniques that combined environmental responsibility with commercial benefit. His legacy of promoting sustainability via feed conversion efficiency has impacted the dairy farming industry, demonstrating how innovation can promote profitability and environmental responsibility.

Reflecting on Rubicon’s Legacy: What Truly Set Him Apart? 

As we consider Rubicon’s enduring impact, it is apparent that his achievements dramatically altered the landscape of contemporary dairy production. But what made the Rubicon so unique? Was it his unrivaled TPI and NM$ ratings or the incredible trust he gained among breeders worldwide?

Rubicon’s genetic brilliance highlighted the vast possibilities of genomics early on. This was more than a personal milestone; it established a standard for future sires and the business. With almost 38,000 daughters in 6,200 herds, his high-performance genetics are currently used in dairy companies worldwide. This vast effect assures that his exceptional characteristics, such as production efficiency and component quality, will benefit farmers for centuries.

However, the narrative continues with genetics. Rubicon was also an innovator in the field of technology. As the first sire to sell 500,000 doses of gender-sorted semen, he demonstrated the financial potential of this groundbreaking breeding technology. Thanks to its demonstrated profitability and sustainability, the use of gender-sorted sperm has subsequently become commonplace.

Looking forward, Rubicon’s legacy goes beyond stats and medals. His work to promote Feed Conversion Efficiency via EcoFeed® programs has sparked a sustainability wave in dairy production. This unique emphasis increases revenue while reducing the industry’s carbon impact, critical in today’s ecologically sensitive society.

Rubicon’s genetics and the technology he popularized will indeed stimulate future innovation. As dairy production changes, we can be sure that Rubicon’s effect will endure, paving the way for a more efficient and sustainable future.

The Bottom Line

The significance of the Rubicon cannot be emphasized. Rubicon has made an unmistakable impression on the dairy sector, establishing milestones for genetic developments and pioneering the use of gender-sorted semen. His genetic brilliance and sustainability successes have paved the way for future progress, showing how innovative breeding may result in profitability and environmental stewardship.

As we move ahead, we must ask ourselves: What else can we do to build on this legacy? How can we capitalize on Rubicon’s achievements to change dairy farming further? The future will undoubtedly provide new problems, but we have a solid basis for building with sires like Rubicon establishing the standard. The issue today is: Who will be the next Rubicon?

Summary:

Edg RUBICON-ET wasn’t just any sire; he was a legend who carved his name into the annals of the dairy industry. From being a pivotal figure in gender-sorted semen technology to influencing over 38,000 daughters across more than 6,200 herds, RUBICON left an indelible mark. His innovations and successes set new standards, and his legacy of promoting sustainability through feed conversion efficiency has made a lasting impact, proving that innovation can drive both profitability and environmental responsibility. Juan F. Moreno, CEO of STgen™, aptly remarked, “RUBICON was a standout from the beginning… congratulations to his breeders on providing us with such a monumental sire”. Celebrating his incredible achievements and pioneering legacy, we see how RUBICON’s influence continues to shape the future of dairy breeding, making him a global beacon of genetic excellence.

Key Takeaways:

  • Edg RUBICON-ET was a pivotal sire for STgenetics®, leaving a remarkable impact on dairy genetics worldwide.
  • He was instrumental in proving the value of gender-sorted semen technology.
  • His legacy includes over 38,000 daughters across more than 6,200 herds, demonstrating his dominance in genetic quality.
  • RUBICON was the first sire to sell 500,000 doses of gender-sorted semen, setting a benchmark in the industry.
  • He played a key role in advancing sustainability through Feed Conversion Efficiency.
  • STgenetics® continues to champion improved herd genetics, sustainability, and profitability for dairy farmers globally.

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Bull Fertility in Dairy Production: Why Genetic Evaluations Matter More Than Ever

Thursday, September 19th, 2024

Explore how enhancing bull fertility with genetic evaluations can elevate dairy production efficiency. Can improved semen quality and genomic tools revolutionize your herd?

Summary:

Assessing bull fertility is paramount to enhancing the efficiency of dairy production systems. This involves shifting the focus from traditional female-centric genetic evaluations to include male fertility traits. Key metrics such as scrotal circumference, semen quality, and sperm characteristics are essential indicators. Genetic and genomic evaluations provide powerful tools for identifying and culling young bulls with undesirable fertility traits, thereby boosting the herd’s reproductive success and economic viability. With advances in technology like computer-assisted semen analysis, the precision of these assessments has improved significantly. Currently, the industry relies heavily on scrotal circumference for fertility measurements, but incorporating additional markers like sperm volume, concentration, and motility can further enhance reproductive efficiency. Ongoing research continues to uncover vital genetic markers linked to male fertility, offering hope for future advancements in breeding programs. Ultimately, optimizing bull fertility improves conception rates and offspring performance and enhances the overall profitability of dairy operations.

Key Takeaways:

  • Accurate bull fertility assessment is crucial for enhancing the efficiency of dairy production systems.
  • Current US dairy industry genetic evaluations primarily focus on female fertility traits, limiting potential genetic gains from male fertility improvements.
  • Scrotal circumference is the primary phenotype used in genetic evaluations of bull fertility but is insufficient.
  • Advancements in technology, such as computer-assisted semen analysis, offer more objective and precise measures of semen quality.
  • Genetic factors, including single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with male fertility traits, play a significant role in evaluating bull fertility.
  • Selection for traits like scrotal circumference can positively impact fertility, such as calving interval and daughter pregnancy rates.
  • Accurate fertility evaluations require considering factors like age, nutrition, temperature, and semen collection methods.
  • Incorporating genomic predictions can significantly enhance the predictive power of bull fertility assessments.
  • Improving bull fertility can lead to increased conception rates, better offspring performance, and reduced costs per pregnancy for dairy producers.
bull fertility, dairy production, genetic advancement, reproductive efficiency, artificial intelligence in breeding, semen quality assessment, genetic prediction in bulls, conception rates, dairy farm profitability, improving bull genetics

Understanding the pivotal role of bull fertility in dairy production is crucial, as it directly impacts genetic advancement and economic outcomes. Traditionally, genetic evaluations in the US dairy industry have primarily focused on females, overlooking the significance of young bulls. To enhance efficiency, it’s essential to evaluate young bulls for sperm abnormalities and semen quality. Bull fertility is not just an economic necessity; it’s the cornerstone of genetic development and agricultural earnings. Neglecting it could lead to severe consequences. Improving bull fertility benefits dairy producers by boosting conception rates, enhancing offspring performance, and reducing pregnancy costs. Currently, the industry’s reliance on scrotal circumference as a measure of fertility overlooks vital markers such as sperm volume, concentration, and motility.

Join us in advocating for the integration of genetic and genomic studies of bull fertility into breeding operations. This holistic approach is key to improving reproductive efficiency, increasing genetic gain, and promoting profitability for dairy farms.

Bull Fertility: The Driving Force Behind Successful Conception and Genetic Advancement 

Bull fertility is a driving force behind successful conception and genetic advancement. It improves conception rates, leading to more successful pregnancies and increased herd reproductive efficiency, thereby facilitating a smooth cycle of production and growth.

Bull fertility affects progeny qualities. Choosing high-fertility bulls promotes good genetic features, including improved milk production and illness resistance, ultimately improving herd performance.

High fertility rates lead to lower pregnancy costs. Producers save on insemination expenses and reduce resources spent on futile efforts, resulting in more lucrative operations. This potential for increased profitability is a promising aspect of the future of dairy production.

Individual bull care and artificial insemination are vital for achieving genetic advances. A.I. enables the widespread spread of better bull genetics, accelerating genetic progress. Individual bull service allows for more regulated breeding, which improves genetic results. Both strategies are crucial for optimizing bull fertility, achieving genetic gains, and assuring sustainable dairy production.

Reevaluating Bull Fertility: Beyond Scrotal Circumference in Genetic Evaluations

Bull fertility assessment has traditionally centered on scrotal circumference measurements in the United States dairy business. This restricted method reveals a more significant difficulty in genetic tests, which mainly focus on female reproductive features. Scrotal circumference gives crucial information about a bull’s reproductive potential.

Selecting for a larger scrotal circumference has shown substantial advantages. Bulls with bigger scrotal circumferences often have shorter calving intervals, which improves reproductive efficiency. This feature has also been associated with increased pregnancy rates in their daughters, indicating hereditary benefits beyond immediate reproductive results. Incorporating scrotal circumference into genetic assessments may improve production and genetic gain in dairy cows.

Challenges in Accurate Bull Fertility Assessment: Navigating Subjectivity and External Influences

Despite breakthroughs in genetic and genomic studies, precisely determining bull fertility remains difficult. The subjective aspect of semen quality features such as motility, shape, and concentration might result in inconclusive assessments and skewed genetic predictions. These problems highlight the need for more objective evaluation approaches, such as computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA).

External influences confound genetic assessments. Age is significant, with younger bulls potentially lacking mature semen production and older bulls displaying decreased fertility. Nutrition is critical; well-nourished bulls produce superior semen. Extreme temperatures may have a harmful influence on semen quality and production rates.

The timing and manner of collecting sperm impact sperm characteristics. The collector’s experience, collection frequency, and even tiny differences in the method all contribute to diversity. Technologies such as computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) provide more objective results. However, widespread adoption is required to handle these difficulties effectively.

Technological Advancements: Ushering in a New Era of Precision in Bull Fertility Assessment 

Recent scientific developments have not only improved but revolutionized how we measure bull fertility, ushering in a new age of accuracy and impartiality. Computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) offers trustworthy data for dairy farmers and geneticists, improving genetic assessments. This reassures us that the future of dairy production is in good hands.

These technologies allow for improved selection in breeding operations by measuring semen qualities directly related to fertility and quantifying sperm motility and morphology, which aids in identifying genetic markers for enhanced fertility, allowing for more informed breeding choices and faster genetic gains. Incorporating CASA into breeding operations also improves assessment efficiency. It reduces labor requirements, enabling geneticists to examine more enormous datasets quickly and precisely.

Integrating scientific developments into bull fertility tests helps dairy producers optimize herd genetics, enhance conception rates, and minimize expenditures per pregnancy, leading to increased production and profitability.

Understanding the Intricacies of Semen Production and Quality Traits in Bull Fertility: A Key to Informed Decision MakingSemen output and quality qualities are critical factors in predicting bull fertility. Scrotal circumference, readily measured by wrapping a tape around the broadest section of the scrotum, measures the bull’s sperm production capability and influences female reproductive features. A bigger scrotal circumference correlates with shorter calving intervals and higher pregnancy rates in daughters, making it an important selection factor.

Post-collection, semen volume is the overall amount of ejaculate from a single collection. In contrast, concentration represents the sperm density within it. High quantities and concentrations improve insemination success. Volume is measured using calibrated containers, while a spectrophotometer often determines concentration.

Computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) devices quantify motility, or the capacity of sperm to move. These technologies provide exact, unbiased estimates of the motile sperm fraction and velocity. High motility is required for fertilization since sperm must reach and fertilize the ovum.

The percentage of abnormalities is the fraction of malformed sperm detected by microscopic inspection. A high number of anomalies typically indicates diminished fertility. Accurate evaluations aid in identifying bulls with superior genetic quality and reproductive potential.

These qualities are crucial for successful genetic selection and better reproductive outcomes. Advanced technology in semen analysis improves accuracy, allowing dairy farmers to make more educated breeding selections that increase genetic gain, fertility, and production efficiency.

Leveraging Genetic Correlations in Bull Fertility: An Indirect Approach to Maximizing Reproductive Success

Genetic connections are an essential topic in bull fertility. They demonstrate how multiple qualities share genetic components, implying that picking one feature may enhance another related trait. In bull fertility, these connections are critical for indirect selection tactics, which include improving visible attributes to increase harder-to-measure traits, resulting in better reproductive success.

For example, choosing bulls with bigger scrotal diameters may improve reproductive attributes. Research indicates that having a larger scrotal diameter leads to shorter calving intervals, higher daughter pregnancy rates, and more significant average daily gain. Focusing on quantitative features such as scrotal diameter might indirectly improve complex attributes required for success.

Additionally, sperm motility often corresponds with sperm concentration. Producers may also increase sperm concentration by selecting for greater sperm motility, which can be measured via modern semen analysis. This comprehensive method improves bull fertility, which drives genetic advancement in dairy herds.

Harnessing the Power of Genomic Prediction: Transforming Bull Fertility Evaluation

Genomic prediction is a novel technique that uses an individual’s genome to assess bull fertility. Researchers sequence the bull’s DNA to find single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), minor genetic differences affecting fertility. Advanced computer algorithms then use this data to anticipate the bull’s breeding potential precisely.

This strategy enables early and precise selection of bulls with superior genetic features. It accelerates genetic growth in dairy cows while improving overall reproductive efficiency and production.

The genes NYD-SP5 and PIAS1 on chromosome 1 play a vital role in sperm formation and are associated with male fertility. The genes TMEM119 on chromosome 17 and PIWIL3 are crucial for sperm production and function. COX7A2L on chromosome 11 and SLC25A31 also affect sperm motility by regulating energy metabolism. CDH18 promotes cell-to-cell adhesion and sperm motility, whereas KCNU1 regulates sperm shape and movement.

Dairy farmers may improve breeding efficiency by incorporating genetic information into their selections. Genomic studies’ predictive capacity drives breakthroughs in herd genetics, assuring dairy production’s long-term sustainability and profitability.

Maximizing Economic Gains Through Enhanced Bull Fertility: A Pivotal Strategy for Dairy Farmers

The economic relevance of bull fertility for dairy production cannot be overstated. Improved bull fertility corresponds with higher conception rates, increasing herd production and milk output. A viable bull ensures that more inseminations result in successful conceptions, optimizing the herd’s reproductive cycle. This leads to less energy wasted on unsuccessful mating attempts and a more efficient lactation cycle, crucial for optimal milk production.

Furthermore, increasing bull fertility leads to better herd health. Bulls with good sperm quality and genetic traits are more likely to produce healthy calves. This amounts to lower veterinary expenses and fewer disease outbreaks, which might result in significant economic losses. Healthier cows are more productive, increasing milk yield and herd efficiency.

Improved bull fecundity benefits profitability and return on investment (ROI). Better fertility rates lower the cost per pregnancy, an essential metric for dairy farmers. Farmers may transfer resources to other vital areas of their company by getting pregnancies more efficiently, enhancing overall production and profitability. Furthermore, genetic advancement generated by choosing high-fertility bulls may improve the overall quality of the herd, resulting in long-term gains in milk production and cattle quality.

Bull fertility, economic efficiency, and ROI convergence are crucial to long-term dairy production. Dairy farmers may utilize strategic selection and breeding programs to promote bull fertility, resulting in immediate increases in conception rates and milk outputs and long-term benefits in herd health and profitability. The economic ripple effect shows that investing in genetic and genomic evaluations of bull fertility is vital for improving dairy sector profitability.

Global Practices in Bull Fertility and Genetic Evaluations: Integrating Innovation and Tradition 

Globally, bull fertility and genetic assessments in dairy production systems demonstrate various techniques that reflect common ideas and distinct approaches. In the United States, genetic examination focuses mainly on the female population, with minimal use of male fertility characteristics such as scrotal diameter. Although helpful to some degree, this strategy may overlook crucial genetic features in bulls that impact total herd fertility.

Countries such as Canada and certain European nations, notably the Netherlands and Germany, use comprehensive genetic screening procedures that include both male and female reproductive features. These nations often include substantial data from male fertility characteristics, such as semen quality attributes and sperm motility, in their genetic analyses. Notably, these areas prioritize research and technological innovation, introducing advanced technologies like computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) sooner and more extensively than their American equivalents.

In New Zealand and Australia, the focus on bull fertility corresponds closely to pasture-based dairy systems. Genetic assessments often concentrate on features that improve fertility and adaptation to specific environmental situations. Integrating genomic data is critical, focusing on discovering single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to reproductive features across various climatic situations, guaranteeing robust and resilient dairy production.

These worldwide techniques are similar in that they all aim to improve reproductive efficiency and genetic gain. All major dairy-producing nations acknowledge the importance of genetic and genomic techniques in increasing reproductive qualities but with varied degrees of focus on male vs. female assessments. Furthermore, the convergence in using technology improvements to acquire more objective assessments of reproductive features demonstrates a shared path toward precision dairy production.

However, the variances are also significant. The United States remains relatively unusual in its female-centric genetic examination technique. At the same time, other major dairy countries use a more balanced approach, which may provide a broader tapestry of genetic insights. This emphasizes the significance of a more integrated assessment approach that captures various reproductive parameters and fully utilizes genetic technology to promote future dairy production efficiency.

The Bottom Line

The significance of increasing bull fertility in dairy production cannot be understated. Genetic and genomic assessments provide critical insights into sperm quality and reproductive features, influencing conception rates and herd genetic gain. Using scrotal circumference as the only male fertility indicator suggests the possibility for an increase via detailed trait assessments.

Subjectivity and factors such as age, diet, and temperature challenge traditional sperm quality measurements—sophisticated technology, such as computer-assisted sperm analysis, results in more objective assessments. Genetic relationships among fertility parameters help guide indirect selection approaches for improving reproductive success.

Genomic discoveries have found gene markers related to male fertility, highlighting the potential for precision breeding programs. To optimize these advances, a matching emphasis on dairy cow reproductive characteristic phenotypes is required. This comprehensive strategy will improve reproductive efficiency and profitability, securing the future of dairy production in a competitive agricultural market.

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Breaking Down Blondin Sires’ Meteoric Rise in the AI Industry

Friday, September 13th, 2024

Explore how Blondin Sires became Canada’s fastest-growing AI company. Understand their strategies, challenges, and successes.

dairy cow genetics, Blondin Sires, dairy breeding industry, genetic products, market share increase, genomics technology, distribution network, high-type sires, competitive advantage, innovative breeding methods

Blondin Sires, Canada’s fastest-growing dairy genetics company, has grown from a small startup to a well-known worldwide brand. Their creative method blends cutting-edge technology with traditional breeding goals and strategies, and has propelled their rapid growth. This strategic execution has seen them increase their Canadian market share from 2.8% in 2022 to a staggering 4.9% in 2023—a 75% increase. Are you intrigued about the secrets behind their incredible growth? Read on to learn about the path, methods, and discoveries that have propelled Blondin Sires to the front line of dairy genetics.

The Serendipitous Genesis: From Scarcity to Necessity 

Blondin Sires strated from a clear need, like a coincidental alignment of shortages and potential in the dairy breeding business. The team at Ferme Blondin faced a growing dilemma: the bulls on the market did not fulfill their demanding requirements for high-type sires with full pedigrees and highly classified dams. This remarkable lack prompted a brave move. 

The first phase was riddled with challenges that might demoralize even the most resilient spirits. They had to create a distribution network from scratch, like sailing unknown seas. These also had to compete for top sires with much larger AI companies who had more extensive distribution networks. Despite these formidable obstacles, their determination remained unwavering. 

Ferme Blondin’s choice to start an AI firm was more than a financial endeavor. There was widespread frustration felt among many breeders for bulls that met their breeding needs, servicing this need fueled the Blondin Sires rapid growth. Their story highlights a critical realization that innovation often starts when motivated people solve a common need by taking things into their own hands.

Forging the Path: Milestones Marking Blondin Sires’ Formative Years 

Blondin Sires’ early accomplishments demonstrate the company’s endurance and devotion. The journey started with theacquiring their marketing code (799), which was a watershed moment in making their goal a reality. This stage was far from straightforward since negotiating the complexity of the AI sector without previous knowledge presented a significant learning curve. However, their unwavering effort paid off.

Another watershed moment came when a strong distribution network was built from the ground up. Initially, the team worked hard to understand logistics and create relationships with breeders and distributors. Their commitment led to developing an effective distribution system, ensuring that breeders throughout Canada had access to bulls with elite conformation, full pedigrees, and excellent performance. These early results provided the groundwork for Blondin Sires’ future expansion and success in the competitive AI business.

Thriving Through Agility: Blondin Sires’ Blueprint for Rapid Growth and Efficiency

Blondin Sires has shown resilience and adaptation in the face of increasing competition, distinguishing itself via swift decision-making and proactive employment methods. Unlike many firms, Blondin Sires focuses on its capacity to make quick, significant choices. For example, they publicaly release new sires as young as 11 months old, substantially earlier than the industry average of 15 to 18 months. This quick deployment guarantees their customers get genetic benefits sooner, which is crucial in the fast-paced dairy breeding business.

The aggressive employment drive, led by co-founder, Simon Lalande, has also been critical. Lalande swiftly grew Blondin Sires’ sales staff from a few to 25 salespeople throughout Canada. Its proactive employment strategy has provided breeders in Canada with rapid access to its genetic products, giving them a competitive advantage in availability and distribution. Such strategic measures demonstrate how Blondin Sires constantly adapts to market demands while establishing new norms for speed and efficiency in the AI business. This proactive approach to employment instills confidence in the company’s growth and future success.

Harnessing the Digital Age: The Tech-Driven Ascendancy of Blondin Sires 

Blondin Sires’ spectacular success may be attributed in large part to technology. Two technical cornerstones, genomics, and social media, have simplified operations and considerably expanded their market reach.

Both genetics and actual performance have been fundamental to the company’s strategy when selecting bulls. Blondin Sires uses advanced genetic testing to thoroughly assess prospective sires, assuring they have the needed qualities. The capacity to distinguish between full brothers and choose the one with the most promising genetic composition from new high-merit cow families has given them a competitive advantage.

Blondin Sires’s clever use of social media has also had a significant impact. It recognized that conventional marketing approaches would be insufficient in today’s digital age, so they used social media channels to communicate with breeders all over the globe. Their strong online presence enables them to publish engaging material and frequent updates, fostering a vibrant community around their brand. This digital involvement not only broadens market reach and builds customer loyalty but also makes the audience feel engaged and part of the community, enhancing its image as a forward-thinking, breeder-focused organization.

This dual-focus approach keeps them at the forefront of dairy genetic improvements while fostering a tight, interactive connection with their worldwide clients.

A Game-Changing Acquisition: The DMV Genetiq Stake

Blondin Sires overcame a significant challenge by purchasing a share in DMV Genetiq, an AI stud in Drummondville, Quebec. This action was transformational. Previously, housing bulls in the United States necessitated bringing semen back to Canada, which significantly hampered timely delivery. Breeders wanted instant access to the bulls, not in two months. Blondin Sires’ activities were simplified after purchasing a share in DMV Genetiq. Once all health regulations have been met, they may now collect and ship semen within a day in Canada, minimizing delays due to transportation. This shift increased speed and efficiency, facilitating their quick expansion and dedication to client satisfaction.

Strategic Global Partnerships: Expanding Reach and Ensuring Excellence

Another critical component of Blondin Sires’ approach is its worldwide distribution network. Establishing and nurturing connections with talented, devoted distributors worldwide has been beneficial. These partners understand and support Blondin Sires’ goal and have the commercial skills to promote and sell their goods in various international markets successfully. This vast network enables Blondin Sires to expand its reach without a physical presence, concentrating on breeding programs, bull selection, marketing, and supplying semen. At the same time, its global partners manage regional sales and customer interactions.

Equally significant are the breeders who work with Blondin Sires. These breeders provide the desired genetics and exemplify the company’s objective of excellence in dairy breeding. Their support for Blondin Sires’ goals and involvement in the genetic pool significantly boosts its reach and services. Blondin Sires collaborates with breeders to provide high-merit genetics that satisfy the demands of focused and modern dairy farmers.

These collaborations provide a solid basis for Blondin Sires’ further development. They enable the organization to maintain high quality and efficiency standards while increasing its worldwide impact and capabilities. In an industry where connections are as meaningful as technology, Blondin Sires distinguishes itself by utilizing strategic collaborations to generate innovation and success.

Celebrating Milestones: Achievements That Define Blondin Sires’ Success 

BLONDIN RD UNSTOPABULL MAPLE appeared to have no limits in a three-day period she took home Grand Champion of the Red and White Show, The Holstein Show and then Supreme Champion at the 100th Royal Winter Fair. Unfortunately, this month she passed away at 4 years old. She was owned by K Doeberiener, L Bowen, W Schilling & T&S Abbott.

BLONDIN RD UNSTOPABULL MAPLE, sired by Blondin Sires’ sire Riverdown Unstopabull-Red and bred by Blondin, Riverdown, and Villyvon, appeared to have no limits. In a three-day period, she took home Grand Champion of the Red and White Show and the Holstein Show and then Supreme Champion at the 100th Royal Winter Fair. She was exhibited by R&F Livestock, K Doeberiener, L Bowen, & W Schilling.

Reflecting on their path, Blondin Sires has achieved some astonishing milestones demonstrating their spectacular development. One such accomplishment is their success with Riverdown Unstopabull-Red, who won the Premier Sire title in Madison, Wisconsin. In addition, BLONDIN RD UNSTOPABULL MAPLE was named Intermediate and Reserve Grand Champion International Holstein Show. Dann Brady, General Manager and Co-Founder of Blondin Sires, remember that winning Premier Sire at Madison with Riverdown Unstopabull-Red was one of the company’s early successes.  Dann shares, “We are a small firm, and having him do that early in our careers was a huge accomplishment.”

These accomplishments demonstrate the exceptional quality of their bull line-up and indicate their dedication to supplying outstanding genetics to breeders globally. Their success in the show ring and the deliberate expansion of their sales staff demonstrate their devotion and foresight.

Unexpected Triumphs: Robella Major and Claynook Zeus 

Looking back on Blondin Sires’ history, some of the most thrilling and unexpected results have come from bulls like Robella Major in past years and today with Claynook Zeus. Fulfilling and surpassing expectations, contributing to Blondin Sires’ reputation as a source of high-quality genetics in the dairy cattle breeding sector.

Robella Major, an outstanding bull at Blondin Sires, exemplified the value of balanced genetics and powerful cow families. Initial expectations were high, but his vast popularity was a pleasant surprise. Robella Major’s success was due to his genetic qualities, which elicited many positive reactions from breeders. Early daughter reports have highlighted his superb Conformation, validating his use for many dairy farmers.

In 2024, Claynook Zeus rapidly became the breed’s #2 GPA LPI Sire, with a remarkable +11 in Conformation and approximately +4000 GPA LPI. This blend of index, conformation, and production makes him a bull for a wide variety of herds. Zeus’ success has instilled confidence and commitment in breeders toward Blondin Sires.

These surprising successes highlight the value of extensive research and the courage to take reasonable risks. Robella Major and Claynook Zeus’s outstanding performance and potential have increased sales. They have strengthened the company’s reputation for supplying exceptional genetics customized to the demands of individual breeders. These bulls have strengthened customer trust by delivering on their quality promise, demonstrating Blondin Sires’ reliability as a source of exceptional dairy genetics.

The Bottom Line

Blondin Sires’ comprehensive strategy, which combines cutting-edge technology, thorough genetic analysis, and strong community participation, guarantees that they stay ahead of the curve and set the standard in the dairy genetics sector. Their commitment to constantly improving the art of breeding promises to generate breakthroughs that will define the future of dairy cattle breeding and benefit both breeders and the industry.

Blondin Sires’ dramatic climb demonstrates the need within the market for correct and functional cattle to stand the test of time while combining traditional breeding techniques with cutting-edge technology. They have established a new benchmark for agility and efficiency in artificial insemination by forming critical relationships and adopting speedy decision-making. Their dedication to exceptional genetics, as shown by the success of bulls such as Rivertown Unstopabull-Red and Claynook Zeus, strengthens their worldwide reputation for excellence.

As we look forward, the question remains: How can Blondin Sires continue to alter and transform the dairy genetics marketplace?

Key Takeaways:

  • Blondin Sires has rapidly increased its market share, showcasing a 75% growth from 2022 to 2023.
  • The company combines cutting-edge technology with traditional breeding methods to achieve high-quality dairy genetics.
  • Quick decision-making and rapid product deployment are crucial strategies that have helped Blondin Sires stay competitive.
  • Strategic acquisitions, such as DMV Genetiq, have streamlined operations, enhancing efficiency and inventory management.
  • Key partnerships with distributors and breeders worldwide have been instrumental in Blondin Sires’ growth and global reach.
  • Blondin Sires’ focus on superior genetics, including conformation and productivity, underpins its success in the AI industry.
  • The company’s effective use of genomics and social media has significantly contributed to its market presence and customer engagement.
  • Blondin Sires continually adapts to market demands, ensuring rapid delivery and customer satisfaction.
  • Blondin Sires aims to maintain its niche in high-quality genetics, distinguishing itself from competitors by not treating semen as a mere commodity.

Summary:

Blondin Sires, Canada’s fastest-growing AI dairy firm, has rapidly increased its market share from 2.8% in 2022 to 4.9% in 2023, a 75% boost. This growth stems from strategic decisions, advanced genetic technology, strong partnerships, and rapid decision-making. Originally founded to address the scarcity of high-quality bulls, Blondin Sires overcame early challenges by setting up stud codes and distribution networks. They further leveraged genomics and social media to streamline operations and expand their market reach. Their commitment to heritage and innovation ensures long-term stability for breeders, combining cutting-edge technology, thorough genetic analysis, and robust community participation.

Learn more: 

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Polled, Red and ultra-elite genetics among Select Sires’ 12 new daughter-proven graduates

Thursday, August 22nd, 2024

 Select Sires Inc. continues to dominate the ranks for world-renowned indexes, including Herd Health Profit Dollars® (HHP$®), Cheese Merit (CM$) and TPI® while also topping the charts for component yields, fertility and health traits. The new class of graduates includes sires that fit the bill for specialty markets including Polled, Red & White and desired caseins. Twelve graduates from four different breeds bring unique genetic opportunities to the Select Sires, Accelerated Genetics and GenerVations genetic lineups.

HOLSTEIN HIGHLIGHTS

  • Each of the six Holstein graduates boast HHP$ values greater than +710 with 7HO15471 ZZ TOP (+1,132 HHP$), 7HO15606 EVERYHOUR (+1,126) and 7HO15396 HUCK (+1,084) leading the charge. 
  • 14HO15369 TRUMPET-RED and 250HO15525 MCDONALD-P-RED qualify for the Mastitis ResistantPRO® designation. Daughters of Mastitis ResistantPRO sires have the genetic potential to experience less mastitis events, thereby boosting milk quality and saving on treatment costs. 
  • Highly anticipated MCDONALD-P-RED combines Red and Polled with health and wellness (+778 HHP$). 
  • 7HO15440 HANDY-RED hails from an impressive pedigree. He’s a Webster-P *RC son with a Very Good (88) dam, grandam and third dam. He also excels for sire fertility (+2.0 SCR) and earns Select Sires’ FertilityPRO® designation. 
  • HUCK debuts as a top-30 TPI sire (+3041) and offers an elite combination of production, components (+0.12% Fat), Type (+1.50), Productive Life (+6.1) and low Somatic Cell Score (2.69).
  • Select Sires improved their RobotPRO® designation qualifications in August to include Milking Temperament and Udder Floor. HANDY-RED, ZZ TOP, EVERYHOUR, TRUMPET-RED and MCDONALD-P-RED each earn the RobotPRO designation and will create daughters designed for automated milking systems.

JERSEY HIGHLIGHTS

  • Dairies have an opportunity to replenish heifer inventories by leveraging gender SELECTED™ semen. Each of the new Jersey graduates has sex-sorted semen available, including 7JE1930 DABO-P, 7JE1939 GRADUATE, 14JE1921 JX CRISPIN {5} and 14JE1929 JX SKALSKI {5}-P.
  • After popular young sire careers, DABO-P and JX SKALSKI {5}-P graduated to the proven ranks with impressive data. Both hail from successful maternal lines and offer outstanding milk yield and components in a Polled package.
  • GRADUATE is siring daughters with tremendous mammary systems, reflecting his elite Jersey Udder Index™ (+15.2 JUI™). 
  • Get a boost in daughter fertility by adding JX CRISPIN {5} to mating rosters (+2.8 DPR).

AYRSHIRE HIGHLIGHT

  • 9AY130 DYNAMIC is a Showcase™ sire with +0.7 PTAT. His daughters are stylish with strong fore udders and high, wide rear udders. He is 98.26% Ayrshire.

BROWN SWISS HIGHLIGHTS

  • 9BS923 POWERBALL is a balanced sire with favorable PTAT (+0.6), UDC (+0.69) and Mobility (+0.6). He hails from a maternal line known for outstanding mammary systems and is an exciting Showcase sire. 

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

Categories : A.I. Industry

6 Trends in the AI Industry That Every Dairy Farmer Needs to Know

Thursday, August 8th, 2024

Discover how economic changes and new breeding practices are affecting global bovine semen sales and boosting dairy farm profits.

Summary: Are you curious about the latest buzz in the global bovine semen market? The 2023 trends reveal a roller coaster ride for dairy and beef semen sales, shaped by economic twists, innovative breeding techniques, and shifting geopolitical landscapes. As we delve into the details, a 4% drop in total semen sales marks the second consecutive year of decline; domestic dairy semen sales fell by 5%, while beef semen sales increased slightly; critical markets like China and Russia faced economic and geopolitical challenges, reshaping export dynamics; notably, gender-selected dairy semen and heterospermic beef semen usage surged, reflecting strategic shifts in reproductive practices. Despite challenges, the overall value of exported semen reached a record $306 million, driven by a rise in average blend prices. “The high value of young beef crossbred calves makes it very appealing to dairy producers to produce F1 calves for the feedlots amidst rising costs of raising a heifer,” explained Jay Weiker, president of NAAB.

  • Despite a 4% total decline, the value of exported semen soared to a record $306 million.
  • Domestic dairy semen sales continued to fall by 5%, while beef semen sales saw a minor increase.
  • Economic and geopolitical struggles in critical markets like China and Russia significantly impacted export volumes.
  • Innovations such as gender-selected dairy semen and heterospermic beef semen demonstrated notable growth.
  • Producers increasingly turned to crossbred calves to offset the rising costs of raising heifers.
Unlock dairy profits by exploring the latest trends in global bovine semen sales. How are economic shifts and new breeding practices impacting your farm's success?

The cow semen business is continually developing, owing to technological advancements, market needs, and creative reproductive procedures. U.S. producers are capitalizing on new chances to accelerate genetic development and herd profitability. The National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) statistics give insight into current and upcoming trends. Dairy farmers must be up to date on industry developments. It allows you to traverse the market more successfully. It guarantees you use the finest reproductive techniques to attain your financial objectives. So, what key trends will impact the worldwide bovine semen market in 2023? Let’s delve in and look at the elements influencing the future of your dairy and beef businesses.

Category2023 Sales (in million units)% Change from 2022
Total Units Sold66-4%
Dairy Units (Domestic + Export)46.9-5%
Beef Units (Domestic + Export)19.2-2%
Domestic Dairy Units15.5-4%
Domestic Beef Units9.4+400k units
Dairy Exports29-8%
Beef Exports4.5-6%
Gender Selected Dairy Units (Domestic + Export)8.4+518k units
Heterospermic Beef Units1.8New

Slumping in Bovine Semen Sales

The year 2023 has seen substantial developments in the bovine sperm business. According to the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB), overall unit sales fell 4%, indicating that a slump was building after COVID-19. Economic uncertainty and geopolitical concerns have played a significant influence. For example, domestic dairy semen sales fell by 4%, continuing their four-year decline. Dairy producers’ shift to beef genetics and higher production expenses have contributed to the decline. On the other hand, the domestic beef semen market broke the trend, increasing by 400,000 units, mainly owing to the incorporation of beef genetics into dairy herds to generate higher-quality crossbred calves.

Globally, factors such as China’s economic downturn and Russia’s geopolitical concerns have reduced demand for imported sperm. Despite these challenges, the overall value of exported semen reached a record $306 million, representing an increase in average blend prices. Overall, the landscape is characterized by strategic changes and a drive for novel reproductive techniques, such as the increased use of gender-selected and heterospermic sperm.

Total bovine semen sales fell 4% in 2023 to 66 million units. Dairy units declined by 5%, losing around 2.5 million units and totaling 46.9 million. Beef units were just a little behind, with a 2% decrease that eliminated 400,000 units, culminating in 19.2 million units sold. Both industries are suffering, but the causes for these declines are complex: the post-COVID economic crisis, increased manufacturing costs, and changing foreign demand. Adaptability and creativity are more crucial than ever.

Domestic Dairy Sales Are Sliding, But There’s a Beefy Silver Lining 

Let’s chat about what’s going on at home. The stats don’t lie: domestic dairy semen sales are gradually falling. Over the last four years, we’ve witnessed a 3.7 million unit decline. This year was no better, with sales sliding by 700,000 to 15.5 million. This troubling trend raises many issues about the future of dairy production in the United States.

On the other hand, the domestic beef semen market presents a different picture. It has shown remarkable resilience, with a growth of 400,000 units in 2023, reaching 9.4 million. This increase is primarily driven by dairy farmers who have turned to beef genetics to maximize their herds. And it’s paying off: 7.9 million beef units were used in dairy animals. Why? The combination of beef and dairy genetics produces high-value crossbred calves. These calves thrive in feedlots and command higher market prices, providing a reassuring outlook for the beef semen market.

So, what is the approach for this shift? It all comes down to economics. Raising heifers is costly; getting them to their first calving requires significant resources. Producers may increase the value of their calves for beef production by adding cattle genetics, providing them with a financial safety net. Using beef semen in dairy herds may balance the requirement for replacement heifers and create money from high-value crossbred calves.

Global Politics and Economics Shake Up the Bovine Semen Market

Have you ever considered how the global pulse of politics and economics might shake up even the bovine sperm market? It’s intriguing. Let us start with China. China, formerly a dairy import powerhouse, has seen a significant decrease in demand for foreign genetics due to the economic downturn. This downturn, primarily driven by [specific economic factors], has led to A substantial drop in U.S. bovine semen exports to this critical market, compelling producers to seek alternate markets for their goods.

Now, let us focus our attention on Russia. Geopolitical concerns and the weight of economic sanctions have also dampened the market. The result? A significant decrease in agricultural imports, especially U.S. bovine sperm. These sanctions have effectively shut off what was previously a vibrant market, adding another degree of difficulty for U.S. exporters.

And then there is Brazil. While the country’s cattle sector is a worldwide powerhouse, transitioning to beef production, notably Zebu-type genetics, has decreased reliance on traditional bovine semen imports. This strategic move, driven by [specific reasons], implies fewer options for U.S. exporters to enter Brazil’s market, further complicating the export environment. These instances demonstrate how intertwined the bovine semen market is with global economic and political trends. From economic downturns to strategic moves in livestock breeding, every turn of the globe influences the demand and supply of bovine genetics.

Gender-Selected Dairy Semen Is Becoming the New Norm 

Now, let’s explore the changing landscape of bovine semen types. Have you noticed the strategic nature of our breeding choices? One of the most significant developments 2023 is the increasing popularity of gender-selected dairy semen. Producers are increasingly opting for this type because it enhances the likelihood of having female progeny, which is crucial for replacing old dairy cows and boosting milk production. According to the 2023 Semen Sales Report, domestic consumption of gender-selected dairy semen surged by 7%, totaling 518,000 units! Imagine the potential for refining your herd’s genetic composition and enhancing overall efficiency, instilling a sense of optimism in the industry’s future.

But that is not all. Have you ever heard of heterospermic beef semen? This innovative product combines sperm from different bulls to increase genetic diversity within the herd. In 2023, this type of semen gained significant traction, with 1.8 million units sold. Why is this shift significant? It provides a strategic advantage by reducing the risk of genetic abnormalities and enhancing herd performance. Using heterospermic sperm increases the likelihood of superior offspring characteristics, improving overall herd health and production.

The strategic reasons for these adjustments are evident. By using gender-selected sperm, dairy producers can accurately plan for future herd needs, guaranteeing that they produce the exact number of replacement heifers required. At the same time, the use of heterospermic sperm represents a more significant trend toward genetic innovation to create more robust, productive, and genetically diverse herds. These strategies address urgent economic needs while laying the groundwork for long-term herd management.

The Rise of Heterospermic Beed Semen

Among new advances in reproductive management, the increased usage of heterospermic sperm stands out. Heterospermic semen, a mixture of sperm from many bulls, is gaining popularity because of its capacity to add genetic variety and improve herd health.

Producers are increasingly using heterospermic semen to lessen the danger of genetic abnormalities by integrating the genetic features of many bulls. This mixing guarantees no one genetic line dominates, increasing genetic diversity and promoting reproductive success and disease resistance. This simplified administration promotes consistent and desired results, making the investment profitable.

Finally, the utilization of heterospermic semen represents a fundamental change in reproductive control approaches. Producers may improve their operations’ efficiency and production by using genetic variety and focused breeding tactics, as well as the genetic resilience of their herds.

Crossbred Bulls Have Rocketed to the Top

Did you know mixed bulls have become the third-largest dairy breed in the current NAAB dairy cross-reference database? What’s remarkable is that these bulls, born and reared in the United States, are seldom exported to other markets that prefer purebred or dual-purpose animals. Crossbreeding has taken off since 2020, with a significant increase in the sale of dairy crossbred semen. We have also noticed increased beef crossbred semen sales, which began in 2018. In the dairy industry, Holstein-Jersey crosses predominate, but beef crossbreds are mainly labeled composites.

The United States is the only area where crossbreds are evaluated genomically due to dependable anticipated transmitting ability and expected progeny differences. This allows mixed bulls to compete with purebreds in terms of marketing. U.S. producers prioritize commercial cow profitability instead of focusing on a specific breed. But remember to consider the value of purebred connections. They continue to play an essential part in the United States’ genetic assessment system, which has traditionally depended on phenotypic data from breed organizations and the Dairy Herd Improvement Association (DHIA).

The Bottom Line

Overall, the 2023 Bovine Semen Sales Report presents many problems and possibilities. We’ve witnessed a noticeable decrease in overall unit sales but a significant rise in high-value categories such as gender-selected and heterospermic semen. Global economic forces continue to influence the industry. Still, creative breeding tactics and technology are emerging as critical instruments for remaining competitive. Are you using gender-selected sperm to maximize your herd’s composition? Have you explored the economic advantages of introducing cattle genetics into your dairy operation? These tactics may be the key to achieving improved efficiency and profitability. So, what will your next step be?

Learn more:

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Benjamin Styer Awarded 2024 George Miller Memorial Scholarship

Monday, July 22nd, 2024

Benjamin Styer, an animal science student at the University of Minnesota, has been awarded with the 2024 George Miller Memorial Scholarship.

Benjamin Styer of Menominee, Wisconsin has been selected as the 2024 George Miller Memorial Scholarship recipient. He was recognized during the Junior Awards Breakfast at the 2024 National Holstein Convention in Salt Lake City, Utah. The scholarship was established in 2023 to honor George Miller and his significant contributions to the dairy and A.I. industries.

“I hope my future role will enable me to develop genuine relationships, advocate for agriculture, and make a positive difference in the dairy industry,” Benjamin says. “While I never met Goerge Miller, from what I’ve heard and read about his life, these goals could suite George’s life too. He was a friend to all, honest, and passionate about the Holstein cow: qualities I hope I can emulate.”

Benjamin is attending the University of Minnesota, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in animal science. He grew up on his family’s Alfalawn Farms active in showing dairy cattle and dairy judging. Benjamin is still pursuing these passions and was a member of the first-place team overall and first-place individual overall at the 2023 National Intercollegiate Dairy Cattle Judging Contest.

Benjamin hopes to pursue a career in dairy genetics, before later returning home to his family’s dairy farm to develop the herd’s genetic programs.

“We were thoroughly impressed with all the applicants for the George Miller Scholarship,” says Jeff Ziegler, vice president of dairy cattle breeding at Select Sires Inc. “We are assured our industry is in great hands with future leaders like Benjamin.”

The George Miller Scholarship fund is hosted by the Holstein Foundation, awarded by Holstein Association USA, and supported by Select Sires Inc., who has been allocating funds for this scholarship from semen sales of 7HO15807 GEORGE MILLER, a previous NxGEN® sire. 

About the Award
George Miller made significant contributions to the dairy and A.I. industries throughout his lifetime. He exhibited an unmatched passion for good cows and the breeders he worked beside. George grew up helping on his uncle’s dairy farm, the birthplace of 7HO58 Round Oak Rag Apple ELEVATION (EX-96-GM). George Miller was a pioneer for genetic advancement in the dairy industry and played a major role in the breeding decisions that produced ELEVATION.

George Miller attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute, earning a degree in animal husbandry and a master’s degree in dairy science. George spent most of his career at Select Sires joining the staff in 1973 where he worked as the cooperative’s marketing manager before retiring in 1991.

Categories : A.I. Industry, Breed Association News

Australia’s Legendary Holstein Bull Maebull Retires After Remarkable Career

Friday, July 5th, 2024

Learn about Maebull, Australia’s famous Holstein bull, as he retires after fathering over 4500 daughters. How did he impact dairy farming?

One of Australia’s best-known and most reliable Holstein bulls, Maebull, has retired from active service. 

Genetics Australia’s Holstein, Calister Maebull, leaves a legacy with more than 4500 milking daughters and countless others in non-herd-tested herds. Maebull was recently retired just shy of his 12th birthday. 

Maebull was the oldest bull at the center and one of the last to move from Parwan Park to Glenormiston quarantine property after TLG was purchased in 2021. 

Selected for progeny testing in 2013, Maebull has built a stellar career both in Australia and internationally, known for siring daughters with impressive health and management traits. Genetics Australia CEO Anthony Shelly shared that Maebull was fortunate to be selected for progeny testing. 

“When we picked teams in 2013, genomic testing was still new, and our bulls were mainly chosen based on genomics,” Mr. Shelly said. “Maebull was the lowest-ranked bull on our team, and we debated long and hard about proceeding with him. But his cow family stood out to us, and we felt he added a unique factor to our team, so we decided to move forward. We’re glad we did; he exceeded expectations and outlasted all his peers.” 

Mr. Shelly noted that Genetics Australia was delighted with its decision, and many farmers in Australia and abroad also appreciated Maebull, who scored 99 percent reliability for most traits. 

He has daughters milking in New Zealand, and his first daughters are now calving in Pakistan, where he has been used for heat stress resilience, given his 104 Australian Breeding Value for heat tolerance. 

“He lays a solid foundation in herds. His medium-sized, black daughters with high fertility and low cell counts are why farmers repeatedly choose him,” Mr. Shelly said. 

Maebull originally came from Calister Holsteins in Calivil, northern Victoria, as an embryo imported from the US by Craig Lister. 

“I had great faith in the Lead Mae cow family he came from,” said Mr. Lister. “I’ve admired that family for a long time, so when importing embryos was cost-effective, I targeted them. In this business, you get used to bulls not always meeting expectations, but Maebull was a pleasant surprise.” 

Calister Holsteins has many Maebull daughters in their herd. “I judge him by the performance of his daughters,” Mr. Lister said. “He produced robust, functional cows with all the necessary health traits for modern dairy. He exemplifies our breeding goals. I have many Maebull daughters who validate my trust in him. His oldest daughter is classified as Excellent and still thriving.”

Summary:

Calister Maebull, Australia’s most reliable Holstein bull, has retired just before his 12th birthday. With over 4500 milking daughters and numerous others in non-herd-tested herds, Maebull has a stellar career both in Australia and internationally. He was selected for progeny testing in 2013 and has been used for heat stress resilience due to his 104 Australian Breeding Value for heat tolerance. Maebull’s medium-sized, black daughters with high fertility and low cell counts are why farmers repeatedly choose him. Born to Calister Holsteins in Calivil, northern Victoria, Maebull produced robust, functional cows with all the necessary health traits for modern dairy. Calister Holsteins has many Maebull daughters in their herd, with the oldest daughter being classified Excellent and still thriving.

Categories : A.I. Industry

Ireland Achieves World’s Highest Sexed Semen Conception Rates

Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024

Find out how Ireland reached the highest sexed semen conception rates worldwide. Get insights from NCBC CEO Doreen Corridan on how to breed dairy cows for better performance.

According to National Cattle Breeding Centre (NCBC) CEO Doreen Corridan, Ireland has shockingly reached the highest sexed semen conception rates worldwide at 60%. She said this last Thursday at Portlaoise’s Irish Grain and Feed Association (IGFA) conference.

“The advantage of the high fertility that’s natural in our current dairy herd at the moment is that we’re getting the highest conception rates worldwide with sexed semen,” she said.

Emphasizing Ireland’s dairy herd’s natural fertility, Corridan ranked the country above others with bovine reproductive performance. She also covered the critical ramifications for cattle control and environmentally friendly dairy operations.

Aiming not just at assuring a lifetime of exceptional performance but also at optimizing dairy cow breeding, Corridan’s speech centered on the urgent need to maximize immediate production. This all-encompassing strategy, underlined at the Irish Grain and Feed Association (IGFA) conference in Portlaoise, is crucial to creating a sustainable dairy business that harmonizes economic viability with efficiency and animal health.

One main benefit of Ireland’s dairy herd’s great fertility is the increased efficiency and production it offers for dairy producers. Ireland establishes a worldwide standard with the most excellent conception rates utilizing sexed semen, therefore promoting sustainability and economic growth. This increase in fertility guarantees a continuous supply of heifer calves, thus supporting the excellent genetic quality of the herd.

These successes have global relevance. Ireland’s developments in genetic selection and reproductive technologies are a worldwide model. The global dairy sector sees Ireland’s targeted breeding initiatives as a road map for better, more efficient dairy cows, which supports environmental and economic goals.

When examining Corridan’s idea for the future sustainable cow, economics takes center stage. A productive cow emphasizes the wise use of resources and helps the farmer maintain economic stability. Equally important is carbon efficiency, which fits the increasing requirement to reach environmental goals and reduce the dairy sector’s carbon footprint.

Profitability and labor efficiency go hand in hand as a cow that needs less intervention and management results in reduced running expenses and more simplicity of farm operations. Long lifespan and health are natural; a healthy cow lowers the frequency and cost of replacements, promoting long-term sustainability.

Furthermore, it is impossible to overestimate the ability to generate valuable calves. Whether these calves support the meat sector or replace the dairy herd, their inherent worth remains excellent. Farmers match market needs and improve general herd output by producing fewer male dairy calves and more valuable heifer and beef calves.

Although this technique meets the market’s needs and general herd output, it is still essential to underline the double value of dairy and beef calves. Heifer calves are precious to dairy producers as replacements so that their herds may be kept growing and improved. These heifer calves constitute a significant investment in the future of the dairy business because of their possible high milk output and better genetic features. On the other hand, beef calves taken from the dairy herd must also satisfy quality criteria if they are meant to keep or raise their market worth. This dual-focus approach emphasizes the crucial part sexed semen technology plays in fulfilling the many demands of contemporary cow farming, hence improving both the immediate and long-term output of dairy and beef enterprises.

Corridan underlined the importance of sexed semen use in Ireland and the fact that over thirty of the replacement herds now result from its application. Driven by the dual benefits of increasing heifer calves from genetically better cows and lowering undesired male calf numbers, this adoption rate marks a radical change in herd management. Farmers improve the genetic quality of their replacement heifers and solve urgent problems related to animal welfare and the carbon economy by carefully using sexed semen. Thus, this approach leads the front stage in contemporary cow breeding as it fits more general sustainability and profitability objectives in the dairy industry.

For dairy herd owners, the advantages of sexed semen go well beyond essential herd growth. Sexed semen helps farmers significantly speed genetic improvement by providing a better chance of heifer calves from higher Economic Breeding Index (EBI) cows. This emphasis on genetic quality implies that cows with higher milk output and efficiency will occupy ever more of the future herd. Often presenting management and market value issues, this deliberate breeding method dramatically lowers the number of male calves.

Moreover, lowering male calves directly helps to meet higher animal welfare criteria and significantly improves farm carbon footprint. Reducing the percentage of less desirable male dairy calves can help farmers better control their cattle numbers, lessen the environmental impact, and match their activities with sustainable objectives. Thus, the use of sexed semen is a vital driver of economic and environmental improvements within the dairy sector, thereby demonstrating its essential function in contemporary, ethical herd management.

From over 30% to a paltry 3% of the calf population, this decrease represents a radical change in dairy production methods. The significant decline in male dairy calves increases the total value obtained from the herd and helps to solve the problems related to controlling extra males. Dairy producers may concentrate on raising high-value heifer calves and improving their production methods as fewer male calves allow them. This strategy change so encourages more sustainable and effective herd management, thereby matching economic incentives with environmental needs.

Corridan claims they achieved a historic first in Irish dairy farming last year when meat from the dairy herd exceeded dairy calves for the first time. This change highlights the rising tendency of dairy producers to include beef output in their activities. From 2013 to present, “Beef from the dairy herd has doubled and makes over 65% of all beef output. Angus and Hereford breeds account for 85% of this rise,” she said.

This trend shows a notable change in herd management techniques, where the dual use of dairy cows is being fully appreciated. Dairy producers may generate a more substantial percentage of beef calves by using sexed semen and high fertility rates. Therefore satisfying market needs while maintaining lucrative and efficient operations. This deliberate change thereby diversifies revenue sources and advances environmentally friendly agricultural methods.

Finally, figures show a fantastic increase in beef coming from dairy herds. Comprising nearly 65% of all the meat produced, the count of beef calves from dairy cows has risen since 2013. With 85% of the beef calves coming from Angus and Hereford breeds, particularly highlighting the strategic integration of dairy and beef output to satisfy changing market needs effectively,

Key Takeaways:

  • Ireland leads globally in bovine sexed semen conception rates, highlighting the high fertility of its current dairy herd.
  • A sustainable cow of the future must be profitable, carbon efficient, labor efficient, healthy, and capable of producing valuable calves.
  • Approximately 30% of the replacement herd in Ireland is now sourced using sexed semen, significantly reducing male dairy calves.
  • The number of beef calves from the dairy herd has doubled since 2013, surpassing the number of dairy calves from the dairy herd last year.
  • Angus and Hereford beef calves account for 85% of the calves from the dairy herd, emphasizing their growing significance in the market.

Summary:

Ireland has the highest sexed semen conception rates globally, thanks to its natural fertility and focus on bovine reproductive performance. National Cattle Breeding Centre CEO Doreen Corridan highlighted the importance of cattle control and environmentally friendly dairy operations at the Irish Grain and Feed Association (IGFA) conference. Ireland’s high fertility benefits dairy producers by increasing efficiency, promoting sustainability, and economic growth. This increase in fertility ensures a continuous supply of heifer calves, supporting the excellent genetic quality of the herd. Corridan’s idea for the future sustainable cow emphasizes economics, carbon efficiency, and long lifespan and health. Farmers can match market needs by producing fewer male dairy calves and more valuable heifer and beef calves. Over thirty replacement herds have been resulting from sexed semen use in Ireland, improving the genetic quality of replacement heifers and solving animal welfare and carbon economy problems. Corridan claims that meat from the dairy herd exceeded dairy calves for the first time in Irish dairy farming last year.

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Select Sires Member Cooperative and CowManager Strengthen Partnership 

Monday, July 1st, 2024

Select Sires Member Cooperative (SSMC) and CowManager® continue to strengthen the marketing development of the cow monitoring system in the SSMC 27-state territory and Mexico.  Chief Executive Officer Chris Sigurdson acknowledges, “The CowManager system is the most innovative and highly researched herd monitoring system available.  Our partnership with the team at CowManager is a key element of serving our member-owners with the best genetic and reproductive technologies and services to assist them meeting their herd performance goals.”  As a key partner in the growth of the cooperative, CowManager sales have continued to expand across our entire territory, including the west.  The new dashboard usability, insemination window indicators, continuous addition of new attributes as well as the way CowManager interfaces with most of the dairy herd software programs and technology like sort gates (including our soon to launch proprietary sorting system) and robots, make it an ideal solution for many of our member-owner customers.  

The unique needs and scale of the western dairy market have driven the two companies to expand their focus and attention to serving these needs with a Sales Acceleration Manager.  This new position will develop programs to recruit and support our large herd customers.  This person will lead the internal teams in training and education with outstanding service as customers have come to expect from the cooperative.  In addition, guiding this growing workforce and championing the use of this technology to create member centric use and implementation plans to maximize their benefit of this investment will drive the work of this person daily.  

Details of the position can be found on the SSMC Indeed page as well as LinkedIn and our website.  Select Sires Member Cooperative strives to inspire the excellence of producers, herds and our communities using collaborative technologies, knowledge, and highly trained resource teams.  SSMC and CowManager share the same dedication, passion, and goals, and promise to work together towards member-owners long-term success.  

Categories : A.I. Industry

Canadian AI Market Share in Dairy: 2023 Sire Semen Controller Stats

Wednesday, June 26th, 2024

Uncover the 2023 AI market share among Canadian AI companies. Which studs lead statistics for registered heifers this year? Delve into the national and provincial trends for a comprehensive analysis.

Lactanet’s recent report highlights the National and Provincial AI Market Share Statistics for A.I. semen controllers of registered dairy heifers born in Canada in 2023. Notably, Semex Alliance leads with a 59.5% market share, Select Sires Genervations holds a significant 19.4% share.

AI CenterTotal2023  Market Share2022 Market Share% change
Semex Alliance  121,32745.90%47.00%-1.10%
Select Sires GenerVations51,33519.40%19.50%-0.10%
Alta Genetics20,7857.90%8.60%-0.70%
Stgenetics17,2076.50%7.30%-0.80%
ABS Global 16,5876.30%6.30%0.00%
Blondin Sires12,8204.90%2.80%2.10%
Validity Genetic Testing8,5023.20%2.90%0.30%
CRI/Genex8,0663.10%1.30%1.80%


The recent trends show notable shifts in market shares: Semex Alliance experienced a slight decline of 1.1%, while Blondin Sires and CRI/Genex saw increases of 2.1% and 1.8%, respectively. These movements underscore the dynamic nature of the AI semen controller market in Canada, illustrating how competitive pressures and evolving breeder preferences are reshaping market dynamics.

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Categories : A.I. Industry

Select Sires Inc. Welcomes Six Summer Interns

Monday, June 24th, 2024

Select Sires Inc. welcomes six interns eager to learn more about the A.I. industry. Veterinary interns Claire Lutz and Matthew Holton will learn from staff veterinarians and livestock teams to perform routine herd health checks. Mackenzie Corbin will assist with day-to-day care and collection of sires as a livestock technician intern. Abigail Foster will expand her research and quality control knowledge as the semen processing and research laboratory technician intern. Ansley Kozarec will refine her communications skills while expanding her copywriting, photography and graphic design skillsets as the corporate communications intern. Eleanor Enright will work with teams throughout the federation as the talent development intern.

“We offer internships in all divisions of Select Sires,” said David Thorbahn, president and CEO of Select Sires Inc. “It is this breadth and depth of our internship experience that allows students to focus on their specific interests and passions. We try to tailor internship experiences to the interest of each student, often creating individual experiences to fit the needs of the student and company.”

Originally from Hugo, Minnesota, Claire Lutz, a third-year veterinary student at the University of Minnesota, will work as a veterinary intern. Lutz completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls where she majored in dairy science with a minor in chemistry. Outside of her veterinary school commitments, Lutz serves as treasurer for the Production Animal Medicine Club and is a member of the Christian Veterinary Fellowship Club. In addition, she works for the University of Minnesota’s blood lab that provides essential services to the dairy facility. Lutz joins the Select Sires veterinary department with a wealth of experience through her time working at the university and shadowing local large animal veterinarians within her hometown. Lutz is no stranger to the dairy or agriculture industry. She grew up on a dairy farm and continued to stay involved in agricultural events while completing her undergraduate degree. During her time at Select Sires, Lutz will shadow Elizabeth Lahmers, DVM, Justin Tank, DVM and other individuals on the veterinary team to provide health care for the bulls at the Plain City, Ohio facilities.

Matthew Holton, a Dawsonville, Georgia native, is joining the Select Sires team as a veterinary intern. Holton will enter his third year as a veterinary student at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine this fall. While in veterinary school, Holton stays involved through service as the Omega Tau Sigma Professional Veterinary Fraternity president, treasurer of the Student Chapter of American Association of Bovine Practitioners, president of the Theriogenology Club, team captain of the Bovine Palpation team and works as an ambassador for the College of Veterinary Medicine. Prior to veterinary school, Holton obtained a Master of Science in Animal Science with an emphasis in bovine reproductive physiology from the University of Georgia. Through his internship experiences, Holton hopes to learn more about the veterinarian’s role in the semen collection process.

Mackenzie Corbin, from Greenfield, Ohio, will be joining Select Sires as a livestock technician intern at the Darby Creek facility. Corbin attends Wilmington College where she will be a sophomore in the fall. Corbin is studying agricultural business and is involved in the Sigma Alpha Professional Agricultural Sorority, Aggies Collegiate 4-H, Ag Ed Society and serves as an admissions ambassador for the college. Corbin’s background in agriculture, including her experiences through FFA, helped to prepare her for the livestock technician internship. Throughout the summer, Corbin will assist with all facets of care for the sires at Select Sires.

From Farmersville, Ohio, Ansley Kozarec joins the communications department as the corporate communications intern. Kozarec is entering her senior year at The Ohio State University, majoring in animal science with a minor in agricultural communications. As a student, Kozarec serves as secretary to the Saddle and Sirloin Livestock Club, director of public relations to Sigma Alpha Professional Agricultural Sorority and dedicates time as a peer mentor for the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. She has gained experience managing social media platforms as well as graphic design. Her passion for the agriculture industry started at a young age. She grew up showing pigs across the state and U.S. through 4-H and was heavily involved in her local FFA chapter. Kozarec’s roles this summer include designing and creating Select Sires’ breeding calendars, assisting with crafting social media posts and helping with photography and videography.

From Wakefield, Rhode Island, Abigail Foster will be the semen processing and research laboratory technician intern. Foster is a 2024 graduate of Oklahoma State University with a major in animal science and a minor in agribusiness and economics. While completing her undergraduate degree, Foster was involved in the Dairy Science Club, Collegiate 4-H Club, Butter Churning Club and Special Olympics. Foster joins the Select Sires team with a plethora of experience including professional A.I. training. She was an FFA state officer, competed in Dairy Challenge and participated in quiz bowls through Oklahoma State. This summer Foster will spend her time assisting Select Sires’ laboratory technicians with semen processing and research.

Joining from Yardley, Pennsylvania, Eleanor Enright will serve as this year’s talent development intern. In the fall, Enright will be a junior at Colorado State University where she is studying animal science. Enright is an ambassador for the College of Agricultural Sciences, a meat processing technician at Colorado State’s Global Food Innovation Center and a member of Colorado State’s honors program. Enright has gained strong communication skills and teamwork abilities. Despite not growing up in the agriculture industry, Enright’s college experiences have allowed her to develop a passion for the industry, especially in cattle genetics and reproduction. This summer, Enright will be working with the talent development team to create courses for Select University and explore all aspects of Select Sires Inc.

Based in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc. is committed to enhancing the productivity and profitability of dairy and beef producers. Highly fertile semen and genetic consultation are provided by three farmer-owned and -controlled cooperatives domestically, while World Wide Sires, Ltd. delivers international service. As the industry leader, Select Sires Inc. supplies farmers and ranchers with the world’s best genetics, services and programs.

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®Your Success Our Passion. and the Select Sires logo are registered trademarks of Select Sires Inc.

Categories : A.I. Industry

Paul Larmer’s Visionary Leadership Recognized with Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame Induction

Wednesday, June 19th, 2024

Learn how Paul Larmer helped make Semex a global leader. How has his leadership affected Canadian farming? Find out more.

Celebrating his significant contributions to agriculture, Paul Larmer will be inducted into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame. This esteemed prize honors those who have significantly influenced Canadian agriculture. Paul’s vision and leadership have greatly helped raise Canadian farmer-owned businesses in the worldwide cattle breeding sector. His relentless commitment guarantees that Canadian DNA is valued and sought after worldwide.

From Dairy Cattle Sire Analyst to Visionary Leader: The Formative Years of Paul Larmer 

Starting as a dairy cow sire analyst, Paul Larmer’s path in cattle genetics evolved from one of a sharp eye for detail, and extensive knowledge of dairy cattle breeding to one of His subsequent contributions were shaped in great part by this function, which gave him a thorough understanding of genetic ideas and their practical applications. Paul perfected the identification of outstanding genetic features by studying sire performance and offspring outcomes. His decisive leadership, which established Canada as a global leader in cattle genetics and raised industry standards, sprang from this knowledge.

Semex Alliance: Birth of a Global Powerhouse in Cattle Genetics 

The founding of the Semex Alliance signaled a turning point in the worldwide cattle breeding sector. It spurred many creative ideas that now define the organization’s unique history. Under Paul Larmer’s sharp direction,in his capacity as CEO of Gencor and a founding partner of Semex, many Canadian AI centers came together to create a powerful and coherent whole. The Semex Alliance aimed to strengthen competitive advantage, seek worldwide growth, and improve genetic offers for Canadian producers. Larmer’s vision transcended boundaries and committed efforts to improve Canada’s reputation in cattle genetics using relentless quality, sustainability, and innovation.

Transformative Leadership: Paul Larmer’s 17-Year Tenure at Semex 

Paul Larmer was a remarkable 17-year Semex CEO who embodied transforming leadership distinguished by strategic understanding and commitment to excellence. Larmer encouraged creativity by prioritizing infrastructure and modern technologies, positioning Semex in a leading position in cattle genetics research. Under his direction, the business grew internationally and sold genes to more than eighty nations.

Among other strategic choices Larmer made were long-term alliances with SwissGenetics and others, which were vital for furthering genetic research and improving product variety. He also supported environmental projects, best seen by the Methane Efficiency Index’s 2023 debut in collaboration with Lactanet.

Semex, under his direction, brought 70 Holstein Premier Sire flags from the World Dairy Expo and the Royal Winter Fair. Larmer transformed herd health and welfare by including technologies like the genetic testing program Elevate, ensuring Semex’s preeminence in the world of cow breeding. His continuing influence on the business is shown by his ability to move Semex from a national organization to a worldwide cattle genetics supplier.

Under Larmer, Semex changed from selling Canadian genetics to offering complete worldwide solutions in cow genetics. This change comprised customized agricultural methods and breeding plans for many climates. Collaborating with Lactanet, Semex’s release of the Methane Efficiency Index emphasizes its dedication to sustainability and responsible genetic innovation.

Larmer’s emphasis on innovative research and development significantly improved the quality and variety of Semex’s products. Semex provides genetic answers that increase herd health, productivity, and profitability globally by using cutting-edge technologies and encouraging a culture of ongoing improvement. Semex’s genes are employed in over 80 countries today, reflecting Larmer’s innovative leadership and ongoing influence.

A Mentor and Beacon: Paul Larmer’s Enduring Legacy in Cattle Genetics 

Paul Larmer’s impact goes well beyond his management responsibilities; he has become a motivating teacher in the cattle genetics field. His commitment and welcoming style have created conditions for creativity and personal development. Young professionals benefited from his coaching and were inspired to propel industry growth from the original points of view.

Larmer has taught the next generation of leaders technical innovation, ethical behavior, and sustainability first importance. Many of his protégés now hold important roles globally, thanks mainly to his mentoring of many successful careers. Larmer has strengthened Canada’s continuing reputation in cattle genetics by pushing for cooperation and technical innovation.

Rooted in Guelph: Paul Larmer’s Agricultural Journey and Semex’s Recognition

Living in Guelph, Ontario, Paul Larmer combines his farming skills personally and professionally. Semex nominated him for the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame based on his close ties to farming and devotion, highlighting his significant contributions to cattle genetics and Canada’s worldwide industry leadership.

The Bottom Line

From a dairy cattle sire analyzer, Paul Larmer’s career shows his development into a pioneer in worldwide cattle genetics. He was instrumental in creating the Semex Alliance, turning a Canadian company into a global powerhouse. Larmer prioritized cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices—like the Methane Efficiency Index and Immunity+- during his 17 years as CEO. Through his mentoring, Semex developed a culture of excellence that gained international acclaim and several honors. Larmer’s admission into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame underlines his significant influence on the field, supporting Canada’s position in developments in cow breeding.

Other inducties include:

Dr. Bruce Coulman is an award-winning forage crop researcher who developed 24 novel forage crop varieties throughout his 40+ year professional career. Bruce’s forage breeding work shaped the future for the profitable production of forage seed and forage crops for cattle feed as a researcher at McGill University and then at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Saskatoon Research Centre. Many of his forage varieties were industry firsts including bloat-reduced alfalfa, hybrid bromegrass and smooth-awned forage barley. Dr. Bruce Coulman lives in Saskatoon, SK and was nominated by the Crop Development Centre at the University of Saskatchewan.

Dr. Michael Eskin is a trailblazing canola researcher whose work made groundbreaking contributions to the early development and refinement of canola oil. A distinguished professor at the University of Manitoba, Michael’s work helped transform the quality and stability of canola oil, expanding the market for this quintessential Canadian crop on an international scale. He also played a pivotal role in establishing canola oil as an important heart healthy addition to the Canadian diet, extending the benefits of this golden oil to include producers, the economy and consumers. Dr. Michael Eskin lives in Winnipeg, MB and was nominated by the University of Manitoba.

Dr. Charles Vincent is an internationally respected leader in agricultural entomology. A research scientist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and accomplished science communicator, Charles has spent 40 years studying insects of economic impact on Canadian food production, guided by a vision for developing sustainable agricultural systems that are commercially viable with the lowest environmental impact possible. His work, including the development of the first viral insecticide registered for use in Canada, provides practical tools that have considerably reduced the quantity of insecticides used in commercial production, including apples, grapes and blueberries. Dr. Charles Vincent lives in Saint-Lambert, QC and was nominated by Co-Lab R&D division d’Ag-Cord inc.

The 2024 induction ceremony will be held on Saturday, November 2 at the Liberty Grand in Toronto. 

The Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame Association (CAHFA) honours and celebrates Canadians for outstanding contributions to the agriculture and food industry. Portraits are on display in the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame Gallery located at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. The CAHFA also publicizes the importance of inductee achievements to Canada. The Association was organized in 1960 and is administered by a 12-person volunteer Board of Directors residing in regions across Canada.

Key Takeaways:

  • Paul Larmer has been a pivotal figure in the improvement of cattle genetics and the establishment of Canada as an international leader in this field.
  • From his beginnings as a dairy cattle sire analyst to his strategic oversight in forming the Semex Alliance, Larmer has shown unwavering commitment to agricultural excellence.
  • During his 17-year tenure as CEO of Semex, he transitioned the company from a Canadian-centric entity to a global provider of cattle genetics solutions.
  • Larmer’s mentorship has influenced many within the industry, guiding professionals who continue to uphold his high standards.
  • Living in Guelph, ON, Larmer was nominated for the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame by Semex, underscoring his enduring impact on the sector.

Summary:

Paul Larmer, a dairy cattle sire analyst, will be inducted into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame for his significant contributions to agriculture. Larmer’s vision and leadership have helped raise Canadian farmer-owned businesses in the global cattle breeding sector. His founding of the Semex Alliance marked a turning point in the industry, spurring creative ideas that now define the organization’s unique history. Under Larmer’s leadership, many Canadian AI centers united to strengthen competitive advantage, seek global growth, and improve genetic offers for Canadian producers. Larmer’s 17-year tenure at Semex led to the company growing internationally and selling genes to over 80 nations. He also became a motivating teacher in the cattle genetics field, teaching young professionals technical innovation, ethical behavior, and sustainability. His nomination for the Hall of Fame highlights his significant influence on the field and supports Canada’s position in cow breeding developments.

Learn More:

In commemorating Paul Larmer’s induction into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame, it becomes imperative to understand the depth of his influence and achievements within the sphere of cattle genetics. His journey is intricately tied to the remarkable evolution of the Semex Alliance, a company that has become synonymous with excellence in global cattle genetics. For a comprehensive perspective on the origins and historical milestones of Semex, consider exploring Semex Celebrates 50 Years with Bull Parade and Tribute to Rich History. 

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Great Britain World Leaders in Adoption of Sexed Dairy Semen

Friday, June 14th, 2024

Explore the transformative impact of sexed semen on Great Britain’s dairy industry, driving remarkable genetic advancements and enhancing beef output. Learn how this strategic shift is revolutionizing farming practices and benefitting dairy farmers.

Great Britain is setting the standard in dairy production by employing sexed dairy semen and thereby creating new international guidelines. Not just a trend, but also a major development with significant consequences for the industry. Farmers may now selectively breed their best females with modern breeding methods, quickening genetic development.

“UK dairy farmers should be congratulated on their progressive attitude to adopting modern technologies to improve their herd efficiencies; they are leading the world in accepting sexed semen.” Head of Animal Genetics, AHDB Marco Winters

Discover how this innovative strategy is reshaping the dairy and beef supply chains, thereby fostering a brighter future for both consumers and farmers.

Transformative Breeding: The Rise of Sexed Dairy Semen and Its Impact on the Dairy Sector

AHDB, a key player in the industry, has been instrumental in promoting the acceptability of sexed dairy semen. Their most recent survey indicates a notable increase in its usage, underlining the dairy sector’s progressive attitude to reproductive technologies. Sales of sexed semen rose from 76% in 2023 to 84% in 2024. This trend reveals the sector’s ambition to increase herd efficiency and hasten genetic progress. The increased use of sexed semen is changing breeding strategies by selecting top females and modifying the genetic geography of British dairy farms.

The Unrivaled Reign of Holsteins: Leading the Charge in Genetic Advancement

Leading the dairy industry with 88% of all Holstein semen sold today sexed, the breed is ahead of the average of 84%. This highlights its main contribution to advancing efficient and genetically altered farming techniques.

Driving Forces Behind the Surge in Beef Semen Sales 

Increasing beef semen sales result from many significant developments altering the dairy industry. Farmers have been able to focus their breeding on outstanding females for dairy replacements using sexed dairy semen. This exact husbandry produces a surplus of genetic potential in the rest of the herd, enabling further use of beef semen.

Now, considering 52% of all semen sent to dairy farms, sales of beef semen surpass those of dairy goods for the first time. This shift alludes to a trend wherein dairy farmers generate highly sought-after beef crosses, increasing the economic value of non-replacement animals. This economic advantage, coupled with the genetic benefits, makes the use of sexed semen a compelling choice for dairy farmers.

Technologies like SexedULTRA4M accelerate these advances by consistently producing female dairy calves and steering other breeding projects toward beef crosses. This approach enhances dairy herd genetics and significantly boosts the beef supply chain, stressing the innovative synergy between dairy and beef production. This forward-looking breeding method increases profitability and output for farmers across the agricultural land.

The Strategic Application of Selective Breeding Through Sexed Semen Technology

Dairy farmers stand to gain significantly from the strategic use of sexed semen technology. By enabling the deliberate selection of superior females for reproduction, farmers can ensure that only the best genetic traits are passed on to future dairy replacements. This focused breeding accelerates genetic development, bolstering milk supply, lifetime, and overall herd health. 

Moreover, sexed semen significantly increases the likelihood of female calves, which are naturally more lucrative for dairy companies. Farmers may focus their efforts on raising females predisposed to superior performance requirements through this optimization. This approach not only guarantees long-term sustainability and profitability but also genetic development through a more efficient and productive herd with every generation. The use of sexed semen is not just a short-term solution but a strategic investment in the future of the dairy industry.

The proper use of sexed semen in breeding efforts allows dairy farmers to promptly and effectively maximize genetic advantages. This forward-looking attitude highlights how dedicated the dairy industry is to using innovative technologies for exceptional herd performance and creative expression.

The Bottom Line

Great Britain’s strength in agricultural innovation is shown in its use of sexed dairy semen. Especially among Holsteins, a jump to 84% in sexed semen usage reveals a deliberate focus on genetic quality. More beef crosses enhance dairy genetics and the beef market, ensuring farmers remain competitive and efficient.

Dairy producers should use genomic studies and the Herd Genetic Report published by the AHDB to maximize breeding initiatives. The adoption of these cutting-edge technologies will constantly propel genetic development, increase herd efficiency, and maintain the dairy industry’s worldwide leadership.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sales of sexed dairy semen reached 84% of all dairy semen sold over the 12 months leading up to April 2024, up from 76% in 2023.
  • The Holstein breed stands out, with sexed semen accounting for 88% of all their semen sales.
  • The use of sexed dairy semen has facilitated an increase in the adoption of beef semen, which now constitutes 52% of all semen sold to dairy farms.
  • This trend empowers dairy farmers to selectively breed their elite females for dairy replacements, enhancing genetic progress within the herd.
  • Dairy farmers are encouraged to leverage genomic evaluations and the AHDB’s Herd Genetic Report to identify top females for breeding decisions.
  • The growing production of beef crosses in the dairy sector has positive implications for the beef supply chain and the overall efficiency of dairy herd genetics.

Summary: Great Britain is utilizing sexed dairy semen to boost dairy production, resulting in a significant increase in sales from 76% in 2023 to 84% in 2024. This innovative approach allows farmers to selectively breed their best females, accelerating genetic development. The Holstein breed is leading the charge in genetic advancement, with 88% of all Holstein semen sold sexed. This shift in the dairy industry also leads to a rise in beef semen sales, as farmers can focus on outstanding females for dairy replacements using sexed dairy semen, resulting in a surplus of genetic potential in the rest of the herd.

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Low Carbon Technologies partners with Resonant to offer products that boost economic and environmental vitality

Friday, June 14th, 2024

Low Carbon Technologies (LCT) and Resonant Technology® Group have entered into a distribution agreement to expand LCT’s product offering to maximize the productivity and sustainability of livestock operations. LCT was founded in 2023 as Select Sires Inc.’s sustainability division, committed to helping producers add value to cattle raised efficiently through low carbon practices. The extensive portfolio of manure management and animal health solutions have been developed with advanced SOP® Inside technology. SOP Lagoon specifically is the only natural manure conditioner that delivers immediate operational benefits and cost savings to producers, while mitigating harmful emissions and odors.

“The new partnership with Resonant further expands our efforts to offer new solutions to customers while pairing environmental progress with real value for dairy herds of all sizes,” said Ron Schuller, chief operating officer, Low Carbon Technologies, LLC.

The partnership announcement also marks the start of extensive SOP Lagoon field trials at seven farms across the U.S. and Canada. In 2023, joint research from the University of Milan and University of California, Davis, reported that within weeks of the first use of SOP Lagoon on a commercial 530-head dairy in Northern Italy, SOP Lagoon reduced lagoon methane (CH4) emissions by 80% and carbon dioxide (CO2) by 75%. Commencing in June 2024, the North American product evaluations will further validate the immediate effectiveness of SOP Lagoon while assessing the potential operational cost savings it delivers.

“Collaborating with Low Carbon Technologies and producers to conduct these product trials presents a remarkable opportunity to reinforce the value of SOP Inside technology and its tangible impact on the bottom lines of agricultural operations,” said Michael Hoffman, partner at Resonant Technology Group. “Leveraging the distribution power of Select Sires Inc. will not only broaden our global reach but enable countless farmers and ranchers to experience the product’s unparalleled economic and environmental benefits.”
In addition to SOP Lagoon, dairy and beef producers have access to a growing list of animal health solutions that fortify animal hygiene and environmental conditions to decrease incidence of disease, costly treatments and bedding turnover.
Based in Plain City, Ohio, Low Carbon Technologies, LLC is the leading provider of certified sustainability solutions, helping producers contribute to improved sustainability while earning a premium for low carbon production practices. Low Carbon Technologies’ first-of-their-kind certification programs measure and evaluate the net total GHG emissions from the entire life cycle of cattle.

Also located in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc. is committed to enhancing the productivity and profitability of dairy and beef producers. Highly fertile semen and genetic consultation are provided by three farmer-owned and -controlled cooperatives domestically, while World Wide Sires, Ltd. delivers international service. As the industry leader, Select Sires Inc. supplies farmers and ranchers with the world’s best genetics, services and programs.

Resonant Technology Group, based in Park City, Utah, leads in the development of advanced natural technology solutions for the agriculture sector. With a focus on increasing efficiency and reducing environmental impact, Resonant’s innovative SOP Inside products and services streamline farm operations and improve farmer profitability, sustainability and animal welfare. Since its inception in 2001, SOP Inside products have been at the forefront of integrating technology with traditional farming practices.

Categories : A.I. Industry

Pon Holding to Sell Majority Stake in €600M Urus Group to CVC: Potential Merger Ahead

Monday, June 10th, 2024

Uncover why Pon Holding plans to sell a majority stake of Urus Group to CVC. How might this potential merger shape the future of this €600M agricultural powerhouse?

Pon Holding

Pon Holding, led by Wijnand Pon, plans to sell a majority stake in the Urus Group to British investment firm CVC. This deal, reported by Het Financieele Dagblad, is valued at over 600 million euros and may lead to future mergers in the sector. 

Urus Group includes Alta, Genex, Jetstream, Trans Ova Genetics, Peak, SCCL, and VAS (DairyComp 305). With 2,100 employees, the company reported 427 million euros in turnover last year, half of which came from the United States. Brazil is also a key market for Urus’ meat branch. Stay tuned as we explore the impact of this deal.

Pon Holding: The Strategic Powerhouse Behind the Urus Group Transformation 

Pon Holding is a dynamic and influential company renowned for its varied portfolio and solid experience.  The Urus Group, a critical player in genetics and agriculture, is home to companies like Alta, Genex, and Jetstream, which specialize in genetic research and cattle productivity.  Trans Ova Genetics excels in reproductive technologies, while Peak focuses on breeding better livestock. SCCL handles essential colostrum processing for newborn calves, and VAS, known for DairyComp 305, provides advanced farm management solutions.  Together, these companies drive innovation, pushing Urus Group to the top of the agricultural and genetics industries, instilling confidence in their potential for growth and success.

Significant Stake Transfer: Pon Holding Eyes CVC for Urus Group Acquisition

Pon Holding’s latest strategic move involves selling a majority stake in the Urus Group, reportedly valued at over 600 million euros. This significant decision, which comes with the involvement of the British investment powerhouse, CVC, is expected to bring substantial financial benefits to Pon Holding. According to anonymous sources cited by Het Financieele Dagblad, the acquisition process has already seen substantial progress, pointing towards a significant reshuffle in cattle genetics and farm management. However, details regarding the exact percentage and conditions of the stake transfer are yet to be disclosed.

Urus Group Merger Talks: A Potential Game-Changer in Cattle Genetics and Farm Management

According to Het Financieele Dagblad, merging Urus could reshape the cattle genetics and farm management industry. While details are scarce, sources indicate that talks are ongoing. CVC, the new owner, aims to merge Urus with another key player in the sector. This potential merger could lead to the formation of strategic partnerships that could further enhance Urus’s market position and innovation capabilities, benefiting the company and the industry as a whole. 

This move could create a powerhouse in cattle genetics, combining resources and technology to spur innovation. The mystery merger partner, which is yet to be disclosed, keeps everyone guessing. However, industry insiders speculate that the best match for Urus could be a company with complementary strengths and a shared vision for the future of the industry. 

If successful, this merger would significantly boost Urus’s capabilities and set new industry standards. With advancements in DNA markers and the required investments for top-tier technology, this merger could make Urus an industry leader, enhancing its ability to deliver innovative solutions and drive the future of cattle genetics and farm management. 

This promises improved services and innovations in cattle genetics for stakeholders, employees, and customers. As talks continue, the industry will watch closely for clues about the potential merger partner.

Financial Performance: A Testament to Urus Group’s Strategic Market Positioning

Urus Group’s financial performance is a testament to its strategic market positioning. Last year, they achieved a turnover of 427 million euros, with the United States being their largest market, contributing to half of their sales. Brazil also plays a crucial role in its meat division, showcasing Urus Group’s global influence and financial stability, providing reassurance to potential investors.

Urus Group’s Workforce: The Unsung Heroes Behind Its Global Success 

Urus Group is a significant employer with over 2,100 dedicated staff. This diverse team is critical to the company’s success across genetics, colostrum processing, and automation. Their commitment and expertise help maintain Urus Group’s innovation and excellence globally.

The Bottom Line

Pon Holding is eyeing a significant shift for the Urus Group by selling a majority stake to CVC, a British investment firm. This move values Urus at over 600 million euros and hints at upcoming mergers, bringing innovations and market consolidation. 

Urus’s diverse portfolio, which includes Alta, Genex, and Trans Ova Genetics, positions it well to harness new synergies. The company has shown strong financial performance, especially in the US and Brazil, with a dedicated workforce of over 2,100 employees. 

CVC’s takeover sets the stage for Urus’s growth and enhanced competitiveness. This strategic move solidifies Urus’s market position and opens new avenues for technological advancements and expansion, potentially redefining the cattle genetics and farm management landscape. While the exact impact on the Urus Group’s global influence is yet to be seen, it is expected that the company’s international operations, particularly in the US and Brazil, will continue to thrive under CVC’s ownership, further strengthening Urus’s global influence.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pon Holding plans to sell the majority stake of Urus Group to British firm CVC, leveraging a potential market value exceeding 600 million euros.
  • The Urus Group includes subsidiaries such as Alta, Genex, Jetstream, and Trans Ova Genetics, showing a diverse portfolio in the cattle and genetics industry.
  • Half of Urus Group’s 427 million euros in annual turnover originates from the United States, emphasizing its strong market presence there.
  • The impending merger could signify a significant shift in the cattle genetics and farm management sectors, aiming to enhance Urus’s strategic market position and innovation capabilities.
  • Urus employs over 2,100 people globally, with Brazil being a notable market for its meat division.

Summary: Pon Holding is set to sell a majority stake in the Urus Group to British investment firm CVC, valued at over 600 million euros. The deal is expected to bring substantial financial benefits to Pon Holding and may lead to future mergers in the sector. Urus Group includes companies like Alta, Genex, Jetstream, Trans Ova Genetics, Peak, SCCL, and VAS. The company reported 427 million euros in turnover last year, half of which came from the United States. Merger talks between Pon Holding and CVC are ongoing, with talks pointing towards a significant reshuffle in cattle genetics and farm management. The new owner, CVC, aims to merge Urus with another key player in the sector, leading to strategic partnerships that could further enhance Urus’s market position and innovation capabilities.

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STUD WARS: Which AI Company Holds the Power in the Dairy Cattle Genetics Universe

Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Find out which AI company is the leader in dairy cattle genetics. Compare the top sires and see who really dominates the industry. Who has the most power in this genetic competition?

A long time ago in a galaxy not so far away, the fate of dairy cattle genetics was firmly in the hands of farmers and breeders. Today, the balance of power has shifted dramatically. Artificial Insemination (AI) companies now command unrivaled control over the genetic future of dairy herds worldwide. Much like the interstellar battles in Star Wars, these AI giants wield incredible influence, shaping the destiny of dairy cattle and the dairy industry. But one question remains: Who holds the most power among these titans? 

As these companies duel with pedigree charts in one hand and genomic test results in the other, the landscape of dairy cattle genetics has become a battleground for supremacy. Each AI company claims to have the best sire lineups. Like the legendary clashes between the Sith and the Jedi, only one can truly dominate the genetic universe. So, let’s embark on this journey to uncover which AI company reigns supreme.

TPI

URUSSelect SiresABSSemexSTgenOther
Proven TPI1630108315
Genomic TPI9324242011
TPI256214325116

Select Sires holds the largest market share at 31%, featuring a well-balanced group of both proven and genomic sires. Hot on their heels is STgen with a 25.5% share, boasting the strongest proven sire TPI lineup. Semex completes the top studs with a 16% market share, driven by an impressive genomic sire lineup.

NM$

ListURUSSelect SiresABSSemexSTgenOther
Proven NM$1718244325
Genomic NM$2564342011
NM$422428385216

STgen shows impressive strength with a 26.5% share of top NM$ sires. Meanwhile, URUS steps up with a robust NM$ lineup, claiming 21% of the top sires. Rounding out the top, Semex holds a solid 19% and a very strong genomic NM$ sire lineup.

PTAT

URUSSelect SiresABSSemexSTAscolBlondin SiresOther
Proven PTAT774224111530
Genomic PTAT597121612930
PTAT1216111440232460

STgen leads the PTAT rankings with a commanding 20% market share, showcasing a robust lineup of proven sire PTATs. Next is the specialist AI stud Blondin Sires, which boasts the second strongest lineup, combining both proven and genomic lists, capturing a 12% share. Completing the top three, Ascol holds a 12.5% share, demonstrating its impressive offerings.

Red & White

Alta GeneticsSelect SiresABSSemexSTAscolBlondin SiresOther
Red & White41052156742

When it comes to the most diverse list of top Red & White PTAT sires, Semex takes the lead with 21% of the top sires. Right behind them are Select Sires with 10% and ST with 13%.

Polled

Alta GeneticsSelect SiresABSSemexSTOther
Polled61513222222

Similar to the Red & White list, the top 100 polled sires feature a diverse range of ownership. A notable shift from the past is that major AI companies have now significantly strengthened their lineups. Semex and ST each command 22%, closely followed by Select Sires at 15%.

Genomic Sire Lineup

Alta GeneticsSelect SiresABSSemexSTOther
49723311383155

When it comes to the major players in the genomic sire market, Semex undeniably takes the lead, boasting a formidable 22% of the top genomic sires. Trailing behind them is STgen with 16%, and Select Sires at 14%. This marks a significant shift from our previous analysis when Select Sires held the top position with 19%, followed by ABS Global at 18%, and STgen at 14%. Semex has clearly upped their game, immensely strengthening their genomic lineup.

Proven Sire Line Up

Alta GeneticsSelect SiresABSSemexSTOther
405538148766

In the proven sires’ category, STgen is leading the pack, boasting 29% of the top sires. Trailing behind, Select Sires holds an 18% share, while Alta Genetics and ABS are tied at 13%. It’s also worth noting that Semex, with a 5% share, explains why they have been focusing heavily on genomic sires to revamp their overall lineup.

Overall Line Up

Alta GeneticsSelect SiresABSSemexSTOther
8912771127170216

STgenetics leads the pack with a commanding 21% share of the top sires. Their robust genomic and proven lineup underscores the value of ongoing investment in superior genetics. Tied for second place are Select Sires and Semex, each holding 16% of the top sires with 127 entries apiece. Despite arriving at the same percentage, they employ markedly different strategies. Semex has ramped up their genomic investments to compensate for a relatively weaker proven lineup compared to their competitors. Interestingly, our analysis reveals a significant shift in the last couple of years. ABS, previously holding an 18% share, now only 9%. Meanwhile, Ascol and Blondin Sires have each doubled their market share from 2% to 4%.

The Bottom Line

The genetics universe of dairy cattle is vast and continuously evolving. Our journey through the galaxies of TPI, NM$, PTAT, Red & White, Polled, Genomic, and Proven Sire Lineups has revealed the power dynamics of the major players and the emergent contenders. STgen, Semex, ABS Global, and the Select Sires federation remain strong forces, innovating and adapting their strategies to maintain dominance. Meanwhile, new entrants like Blondin Sires and Ascol are trying to shake the status quo, offering tantalizing glimpses of the future. 

As you navigate the cosmic landscape of dairy cattle genetics, the key takeaway is balancing both proven and genomic sires. Keeping an eye on emerging trends, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each player, and making informed decisions will steer your herd toward stellar success. The universe may be unpredictable, but you can chart a course toward prosperity with the right choices. May the force of informed decision-making be with you!

Summary: The landscape of dairy cattle genetics is evolving rapidly, with major players like STgen, Select Sires and Semex, and new entrants such as Blondin Sires and Ascol making significant strides across various segments. While traditional metrics like TPI and NM$ still hold weight, the focus on specialized categories such as Red & White, Polled, and genomic sires shows a dynamic shift towards more targeted breeding strategies. Companies like Validity Genetics are carving out notable shares, particularly in the genomic Polled segment, indicating a competitive and diverse market. This evolving competition among Artificial Insemination companies highlights the increasing importance of niche segments and innovative genetic offerings, reshaping the power dynamics in the dairy cattle genetics universe.

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Semex Celebrates 50 Years with Bull Parade and Tribute to Rich History

Friday, May 31st, 2024

Join Semex’s 50th anniversary celebration with a grand bull parade and tributes to its founding fathers. Curious about the legacy and festivities? Discover more here.

Celebrating a milestone like a 50th anniversary is a big deal. For Semex, it marks 50 years of significant impact in the agricultural and livestock industry. Since its start, Semex has been known for innovation, quality, and excellence, continually setting new standards and pushing the industry forward. This success wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and hard work of the Semex staff from around the world and industry partners. To celebrate this special occasion this past week, staff from and partners gathered at their offices in Guelph for an impressive bull parade followed by a recap of their rich history.

Reflecting on this milestone, Robert Chicone, former CEO  of Semex, remarks, ‘Has it been 50 years already?’ Having been part of the industry when Semex was founded, I now have the privilege of witnessing its vibrant 50th birthday. The time has truly flown by! If I were to summarize my thoughts in one paragraph, I would say this: Semex’s 50th anniversary is not just a celebration of a company, but a testament to the resilience and innovation of the Canadian genetics industry, which continues to lead despite a relatively small population of dairy animals. The company’s longevity results from its innovation, research, leadership, service excellence, and collaboration among various industry stakeholders. 

Semex’s Rich 50-Year History

The 1940s marked a turning point for bovine artificial insemination in Canada. Dairy producers began using fresh semen but faced challenges due to its short shelf life. Many local centers, often co-ops, started to emerge. In the 1950s, frozen semen trials began. In 1954, a significant breakthrough occurred at the co-op in Waterloo, near Guelph, Ontario. Thanks to the University of Guelph, Waterloo became the first to use only frozen semen. This technology allowed for long-term storage of semen, making it possible to make the best use of top bulls and to combine small centers despite geographical distances.

 

Frozen semen also made inter-provincial and international trade easier. In 1955, Ontario centers started trading semen across provinces, and by 1959, Canadian semen reached the University of Munich in Germany. This milestone was highlighted in Roy G. Snyder’s book, “Fifty Years of Artificial Insemination in Canada.” The 1960s saw the development of progeny testing programs for young dairy bulls, which sped up genetic improvements. Ontario also led global frozen semen exports through the Ontario Association of Animal Breeders (OAAB) under Roy G. Snyder’s leadership. 

As interest from abroad grew, so did OAAB’s business strategies, resulting in partnerships with other Canadian centers. By 1974, recognizing the need for a name reflecting national supply, ‘Semen Exports Canada’ became ‘Semex Canada.’ The 1970s and 1980s were golden years for Semex as Canadian genetics gained global prominence. Semex played a pivotal role in this transition, with north American Holstein genetics replacing European black-and-white Friesians, which was helped by favorable health regulations, giving Semex a leading role in international trade. 

During this period, promotional events and technological advances, primarily through Boviteq, highlighted Semex’s leadership. However, increased competition from Europe and the U.S. in the 1990s posed challenges, leading to the creation of the Semex Alliance in 1997. This was a testament to their resilience and adaptability, as they unified Canadian resources to adapt to changing market demands under leaders like Paul Larmer. This spirit of resilience and adaptability continues to guide them as they look towards the future. 

In the following years, Semex successfully navigated international regulations and diversified its revenue streams, preparing for the genomics era and ensuring Canada’s continued leadership in bovine genetics. Semex’s journey spans the Atlantic to the Pacific, showcasing the team’s collaboration and dedication. 

Semex’s 50-year journey is a powerful story of innovation, perseverance, and community.

To explore the profound impact of Semex’s commitment to genetic progress and technological innovation on the AI industry, we invite you to read more in Celebrating 50 Years of Semex: A Symbol of Genetic Progress and Technological Innovation. We hope this content will inspire you and deepen your understanding of their journey.

Summary: Semex celebrates its 50th anniversary in the agricultural and livestock industry, marking a significant milestone in the industry’s history. The company has been known for innovation, quality, and excellence, setting new standards and pushing the industry forward. The company’s longevity is a testament to the resilience and innovation of the Canadian genetics industry, which continues to lead despite a relatively small population of dairy animals. The company’s rich 50-year history began in the 1940s with the introduction of frozen semen trials, which allowed for long-term storage of semen and improved inter-provincial and international trade. The 1960s saw the development of progeny testing programs for young dairy bulls, and the Ontario Association of Animal Breeders (OAAB) led global frozen semen exports. Semex played a pivotal role in the transition to north American Holstein genetics, replacing European black-and-white Friesians. The creation of the Semex Alliance in 1997 reflects the company’s resilience and adaptability in navigating international regulations and diversified revenue streams.

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Celebrating 50 Years of Semex: A Symbol of Genetic Progress and Technological Innovation

Tuesday, May 28th, 2024

Explore the transformative journey of Semex over the last half-century. Curious about the key factors driving their groundbreaking innovations and sustained leadership in the genetics field? Continue reading to uncover their story.

Success stories in innovation always pique our interest, especially from traditional fields like livestock improvement. Over the past half-century, one company has consistently impressed with its innovative approach and unwavering determination to push the boundaries. That company is Semex, a name that sparks curiosity and invites us to delve deeper into its unique methods. 

Semex’s journey is a saga of resilience, innovation, and progress. For over 50 years, they have led the way in genetic innovation, introducing solutions that have reshaped the global dairy sector. Their pioneering approach has transformed once-unthinkable practices into industry norms, a testament to their unwavering determination and forward-thinking. As we explore Semex’s journey, you’ll be inspired by their resilience and progress, sparking your innovative thinking. 

How Semex’s Humble Beginnings Sparked a Revolution in the Dairy Sector. 

In May 1974, Semex embarked on its journey in cattle breeding with a humble team of six employees, exporting just over 200,000 doses of semen. Today, it is a testament to the power of determination and innovation—this leading cooperative exports genetics to over 80 countries. With an annual turnover exceeding 180 million USD, Semex is supported by a global team of more than 1,800 workers and 110 distributors. Their growth and success are a source of admiration and Inspiration for all. 

A revolution in livestock breeding began in 1953 with the innovation of deep-freezing semen, moving beyond the limitations of fresh semen’s short preservation. By 1959, the first Canadian semen was exported to Germany, marking a significant milestone. Roy G. Snyder, then secretary-manager of the Ontario Association of Animal Breeders, oversaw the export of 17,016 doses to nine countries by 1967, laying the groundwork for what would become Semex. 

The inception of Semex in 1974 was a monumental development led by Snyder’s vision, creating a Canadian cooperative to export top genetics. Unifying all Canadian AI studs, Semex Canada sold 209,354 doses to 31 countries in its first year, cementing Canada’s influence in the international cattle genetics market. 

Committed to a journey of continuous improvement, Semex has invested heavily in research and development, enhancing the quality and diversity of its product lineup. In 1986, Semex established Boviteq, which specializes in embryo transfers and in vitro fertilization. Located in St. Hyacinthe, Quebec, Boviteq quickly gained a global reputation for its pioneering work in embryology and semen quality research, significantly contributing to Semex’s growth and future success. 

Today, Semex employs 400 personnel across five divisions, reflecting its dedication to excellence in multiple fields.

Uncover the Practices That Made Semex a Unique Player in Genetics 

What sets Semex apart in a competitive market? It’s its unique practices and commitment to exemplary service. Since its inception, Semex has defied traditional dairy and beef genetics through innovative strategies. Technological advancements, such as the launch of their genomic testing service, Elevate(TM), have set new industry standards. These examples of Semex’s innovative practices demonstrate their relentless focus and determination. 

Semex’s strategic partnerships have enhanced genetic diversity and fostered industry growth. Collaborations with global breed associations have enriched their genetic offerings and promoted sustainability within the dairy and beef sectors, a testament to Semex’s collaborative and forward-thinking approach.

Technology is at the heart of Semex’s growth. The launch of their genomic testing service, Elevate, is a prime example. By using advanced genetic science to breed animals with more robust immune responses, Semex has revolutionized herd health and welfare. Their commitment to quality ensures only the highest-standard sires make it into their catalog, providing exceptional products for customers and setting new industry standards.

Enter Matt McCready, the new CEO, in 2024, who provides a unique perspective on Semex’s vast reach. “More than merely boasting the title as one of the world’s premier genetics providers, Semex has demonstrated its prowess as a global leader in offering comprehensive solutions, including advanced activity monitoring systems, for over 15 years,” he states. 

“The key to enduring success lies in adaptability and the relentless pursuit of excellence,” asserts Matt McCready. Ingrained in Semex’s narrative, this principle defines the company’s ascent from humble beginnings to global leadership in bovine genetics. Semex’s journey epitomizes the power of vision, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

In an impressive stride towards sustainability, Semex, in partnership with Lactanet, launched the world’s first Methane Efficiency Index in April 2023. This innovative solution, paired with the Immunity+ brand Semex, offers clients the dual benefit of reducing methane emissions and healthier animals, thereby scaling down antibiotic use and demonstrating their commitment to responsible and sustainable practices.

Meet the Millionaire Sires: Semex’s Prolific Contributors to Genetic Excellence

Let’s explore the magnificent story of Semex’s 13 millionaire sires, a testament to the breeders’ satisfaction with Semex genetics and the indisputable quality they represent. 

SireContributions
Hanoverhill InspirationIt began with Hanover-Hill Inspiration, the first semen millionaire Semex introduced. Inspiration, a remarkable son of Triple-Threat Lulu EX-96, was born in 1981 and became the first bull to produce 1 million semen doses by 1995.  He pioneered exceptional genetic traits, contributing significantly to dairy cattle excellence.
Madawaska AerostarNotable for enhancing milk production and dairy cattle robustness.
Startmore RudolphRecognized for his contributions to improving overall herd quality.
Comestar LeeOver 183,000 daughters, impacting global dairy cattle breeding significantly.
Comestar LeaderOver 111,000 daughters, solidifying Semex’s global influence in dairy breeding.
Crackholm FeverRenowned for superior genetic traits and enhancing dairy cattle lineage.
Mainstream ManifoldNoted for his genetic excellence and contribution to herd improvement.
R-E-W BuckeyePlayed a critical role in advancing dairy genetics and production capabilities.
Ladino Park Talent *RCPraised for his role in producing robust and high-yielding dairy cattle.
Comestar OutsideA pivotal sire in enhancing genetic quality and herd performance.
Comestar LherosMade significant strides in improving dairy breeding programs worldwide.
Stouder MortyKnown for his lasting contributions to genetic excellence in dairy cattle.
Oliveholme AerolineRemarkable for his role in advancing dairy cattle genetics and productivity.

Since 1979, Semex has proudly received 70 Holstein Premier Sire banners at the World Dairy Expo and the Royal Winter Fair, illustrating their consistent excellence in genetics. 

Numerous Gold Medal Sires, recognized by The Holstein Association of America for their superior milk, fat, and protein production and conformation, add to Semex’s accolades.

Revolutionizing Dairy Farming: Key Technological Breakthroughs

The narrative of Semex’s transformational impact on dairy farming is intricately linked with its zealous pursuit of scientific innovation and technological advancements. One of the critical breakthroughs has been the integration of genomic selection. This technology allows breeders to analyze the DNA of dairy cattle, offering unprecedented accuracy in predicting an animal’s genetic potential. By identifying superior traits early, Semex has dramatically enhanced its ability to develop elite sires and dams, streamlining the propagation of desirable characteristics throughout dairy herds. 

Another cornerstone is the advanced reproductive technique known as embryo transfer. This enables Semex to amplify the genetic contributions of their top-tier females, vastly improving herd genetics. Superior embryos from high-genetic-merit cows are implanted into recipient cows, expediting the spread of valuable genes and accelerating genetic gain. 

Furthermore, Semex’s commitment to innovation exemplifies its adoption of proprietary software tools. These platforms meticulously track and analyze herd performance data. By leveraging big data analytics, Semex refines its breeding programs, ensuring comprehensive, real-time insights inform selection decisions. This approach optimizes individual animal performance and enhances overall herd productivity. 

In addition, Semex invests in state-of-the-art infrastructure. Their laboratories, equipped with cutting-edge technology, support research and practical applications. This investment underscores their dedication to remaining at the forefront of the dairy genetics field. 

These technological advancements provide Semex with an unparalleled toolkit for transforming dairy farming. By staying at the vanguard of genetic science and technology, Semex fulfills its mission of enhancing the global dairy industry and contributes significantly to the sustainability and efficiency of agricultural practices worldwide.

Semex Works by Working with Others

Partnerships and collaboration are the foundation of Semex’s strategy. The creation of the Semex Alliance in 1997 highlights this focus. Major alliances were formed, including with SwissGenetics in 2004 and 2005, securing the production and distribution rights for sexed semen.

The International Livestock Management School is another landmark, with people from over 130 countries improving cattle farming through its Canadian-designed programs. These collaborations have fueled Semex’s expansion and innovation. 

McCready elaborates, “What sets Semex apart is its scientific expertise and ability to form symbiotic relationships with farmers, researchers, and other stakeholders worldwide.” This underscores a critical factor in Semex’s success: its extensive geographical and relational reach. By fostering an inclusive network of collaborators, Semex has strengthened its genetic programs and ensured its innovations are cutting-edge. McCready’s insight highlights that Semex’s true strength lies in its expansive and integrated approach to genetic excellence, which has driven the company’s sustained growth and impressive global footprint.

“Semex’s commitment to infrastructure and genetics remains steadfast,” McCready emphasizes. Market challenges, including production costs, persist, but global reach aids client engagement. 

Semex continues to grow. “We have expanded our sexed semen lab and sire housing,” McCready notes. BoviTeq’s swift growth and new partnerships with DataMars and the MILC group in 2023 promise long-term benefits for clients. 

In 2024, Semex will integrate Brazilian companies Semex Brazil, Tairana, and Cenatte, unlocking new growth avenues. In summary, Semex’s fifty-year journey is marked by genetics, innovation, and resilience, paving the way for future success.

Influential Leaders at Semex – Pillars of Greatness 

Understanding Semex’s success is only possible by acknowledging the tremendous leaders who laid the groundwork and navigated the ship through innovation and ingenuity. Influential figures were present at every twist and turn. 

  • Roy Snyder’s pivotal contribution cannot be overlooked. As the founder, Snyder, a visionary dairy farmer from Ontario, recognized the potential of artificial insemination in dairy farming. His leadership integrated this groundbreaking technology into Semex’s genetic improvement strategies, establishing a unique space in a competitive industry.
  • Dr. Moe Freeman propelled Semex toward its current stature in genetic innovation. His strategic implementation of advanced genetic techniques and innovative practices set new industry standards, making Freeman a key architect of Semex’s modern-day pre-eminence.
  • Robert Chicoine combined cattle breeding strategies with innovative leadership, capitalizing on partnerships and alliances to fortify Semex’s global footprint. He was instrumental in forming the Semex Alliance, broadening access to high-quality genetic material.
  • Paul Larmer served over four decades in the industry, 17 years as Semex’s CEO. Larmer maintained an edge through innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. He fostered global collaborations, expanding Semex’s impact and supporting genetic advancements. His legacy extends beyond his tenure, laying the foundation for ongoing innovation.

Community Impact: Semex’s Role in Local and Global Communities

Semex’s influence extends beyond laboratories and dairy barns, deeply embedding within local and global communities. Central to Semex’s community efforts is an unwavering commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. This dedication is displayed through support for local agricultural education and global initiatives addressing food insecurity. By partnering with educational institutions, Semex ensures that future agricultural professionals have the essential skills and knowledge for innovation. 

Semex’s commitment to fostering future agricultural leaders shines through its support for youth and 4-H programs. By investing in these organizations, Semex provides essential learning experiences and growth opportunities. Sponsoring 4-H events and offering scholarships, Semex empowers young agricultural enthusiasts, ensuring a continuous flow of talent and innovation. This commitment strengthens the farming community and maintains a legacy of excellence. Many of Semex’s top executives are from youth events sponsored by Semex and their co-op owners.

This holistic approach to community impact reflects Semex’s belief in collective progress. Brad Sayles, Chief Operating Officer, captures this ethos: “Our success is intrinsically linked to the well-being of the communities we serve. We aim to create a ripple effect benefiting local and global populations by fostering inclusivity and innovation.”

Learn About the Future Vision of Semex – What’s Next? 

Embarking on the next stage of its journey, Semex is still in progress; its leaders envision a future that harnesses advanced and emerging technologies. Be it artificial intelligence, genomics, or innovative breeding techniques, each technological advance presents a new opportunity. 

Guided by Chief Operating Officer Brad Sayles, optimism for the future is palpable. “Our priorities have always been centered on delivering genetic solutions that improve herd profitability while ensuring animal well-being and sustainability. We believe in the power of innovation and collaboration to drive progress in the dairy industry,” says Sayles. “Innovation drives every decision we make.” 

The Semex Board of Directors’ steadfast commitment to innovation, quality, and partnerships has been the backbone of the company’s success. Sayles and the Semex team intend to uphold and surpass this ethos as they surge into the future. 

Semex’s promising partnerships and alliances across international borders are fundamental to its continued success. With a commitment to innovation and maintaining high-quality relationships, Semex’s rich history appears as promising as its future. That’s fifty years in the making, and it’s just the beginning. Buckle up and join the journey as Semex carves a new chapter in the story of genetic innovation.

The Bottom Line

Semex’s half-century success in genetics underscores its innovative approaches, strong leadership, and effective teamwork. Led by visionaries like Robert Chicoine, Paul Larmer, Moe Freeman, and Roy Snyder, the company has excelled through strategic partnerships and a steadfast commitment to excellence. Looking ahead, Semex remains dedicated to collaboration, honoring its legacy, and maintaining market leadership. This narrative highlights the fusion of science, business acumen, and human ingenuity.  As Semex marks this milestone, it continues to lead in cattle breeding, advance genetics and set new standards through unwavering partnership and customer collaboration.

Key Takeaways:

  • A global leader: Established in 1974, Semex has grown into a powerhouse, exporting genetics to over 80 countries worldwide.
  • Legacy of innovation: With roots tracing back to 1953, the company has continually pushed the boundaries of livestock breeding and genetic research.
  • Pioneering exports: The first Canadian semen was exported by Semex to Germany in 1959, marking a significant milestone in the industry’s history.
  • Unified excellence: In 1974, Semex Canada unified all Canadian AI studs, creating a cohesive and formidable entity in the field of genetics.
  • Investment in R&D: Significant investments in research and development have allowed Semex to enhance the quality and diversity of its product lineup consistently.
  • Advanced reproductive technologies: The establishment of Boviteq in 1986, specializing in embryo transfers and in vitro fertilization, exemplifies Semex’s commitment to cutting-edge advancements.
  • Strategic integration: The planned integration of Semex Brazil, Tairana, and Cenatte in 2024 signals new growth avenues and expanded influence.
  • Commitment to community: Beyond its genetic advancements, Semex impacts both local and global communities, emphasizing its holistic approach to industry leadership.

Summary: Semex, a leading dairy company, has been a trailblazer in genetic innovation for over 50 years. Established in 1974, the company exports genetics to over 80 countries and has made significant contributions to livestock breeding since 1953. The first Canadian semen was exported to Germany in 1959, and Semex Canada unified all Canadian AI studs in 1974. The company has invested heavily in research and development, enhancing the quality and diversity of its product lineup. In 1986, Semex established Boviteq, specializing in embryo transfers and in vitro fertilization. Semex remains dedicated to its clients and industry partners. The company plans to integrate Brazilian companies Semex Brazil, Tairana, and Cenatte in 2024, unlocking new growth avenues. The Semex Board of Directors’ commitment to innovation, quality, and partnerships has been the backbone of the company’s success. Semex’s 13 millionaire sires demonstrate consistent excellence in genetics, and the company’s community impact extends beyond laboratories and dairy barns.

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Taking Cue from Taylor Swift: How Dairy Breeders Can Assert Their Rights Against AI Companies in the Bull Business

Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024

Discover how Taylor Swift battled for her music rights. Dairy breeders, it’s time to stand up for your rights against AI companies!

In our modern era of streaming and digitization, a new wave of challenges regarding intellectual property rights has surged, impacting everyone from musicians to dairy breeders. Case in point is pop icon Taylor Swift, who made headlines with her fierce battle to reclaim control over her masters. Her saga is not simply high-level celebrity drama but a powerful lesson encapsulating the importance of control and ownership. Interestingly, it resonates far beyond the reach of the music industry. A striking parallel can be drawn between the issues faced by artists like Swift and the current plight confronting dairy breeders in their battles with Artificial Insemination (AI) companies in the bull industry. Both stories underline one fundamental truth: the battle for control and ownership is a shared struggle, transcending industries, sectors, and professions. 

The Problem in the Bull Industry 

Considering the advancements artificial insemination (AI) has spurred in dairy farming, it’s hard not to appreciate the revolution it has spurred. Technological evolution has given breeders access to high-quality genetics on a global scale, an unprecedented stride that has significantly boosted productivity, efficiency, and profits. However, every coin has two sides, and the seemingly bright and promising future isn’t exempt. 

Over the years, the bull industry has had a subtle yet drastic shift. The once diverse landscape is slowly transforming into a consolidated sector under the control of a few dominant AI companies. This industry consolidation presents a looming challenge that’s hard to ignore. Once breeders sway over their livestock, a wave of high-tech enterprises gains control, commands choice, and direction, and casts a shadow over this traditional industry. 

Like the room’s proverbial elephant, the control issue is complex and multifaceted. Control over the bloodlines, control over the genetic data and control over the very future of the industry. Breeders find themselves battling for these rights in a terrain that is becoming increasingly steep and challenging to navigate. This is the flipside – the dark underside of the otherwise bright narrative of AI revolutionizing the dairy industry. 

The critical question becomes, how do dairy breeders assert their rights in such a landscape? How do they reclaim control? Well, it turns out, they might want to take a leaf out of Taylor Swift’s book.

Issues Faced by Dairy Breeders 

  • Ownership of genetics: When dairy breeders sell their bull genetics to AI companies, they risk losing control over their usage. This can be disheartening, as years of careful breeding and genetics management could be redirected at the whim of AI companies.
  • Market consolidation: An adverse effect is that the bull semen market has significantly reduced to a handful of AI companies. This narrowing landscape stifles competition, creating an imbalance in the marketplace.
  • Intellectual property concerns: There’s more. AI companies might enforce stringent contracts, shackling breeders and limiting their freedom to market their genetics independently. This adds another layer of complexity and restricts breeders from potentially exploring innovative routes.
  • Royalty compensation: Last but certainly not least, the question of appropriate compensation remains. Breeders could be the recipients of a raw deal, garnering modest royalties compared to the hefty profits pocketed by AI companies.

These are the hurdles in the path of dairy breeders. But remember, the battle isn’t lost. Not yet. As Taylor Swift demonstrated, unexpected allies can emerge from the shadows, and new strategies can turn the table. Your move, dairy breeders. 

Drawing Parallels: What Dairy Breeders Can Learn from Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift’s struggle underscored the critical importance of understanding and securing ownership rights. When Scooter Braun obtained her masters, Swift took the extraordinary measure of re-recording her albums, thereby reclaiming control over her creative assets. This bold move emphasized the intrinsic value of retaining command over one’s intellectual output. 

For dairy breeders, this analogy transcends mere cleverness—it is imperative. Just as Swift pursued dominion over her music, breeders must ensure the ownership of their bull genetics and associated data. AI companies are poised to eclipse breeders, seizing essential intellectual property for their own commercial advantage. 

Advanced analytics and deep learning endow AI companies with profound insights, akin to how record companies exploit artists’ works. Following Swift’s example means demanding transparency and equitable contract terms. It is crucial to comprehend the conditions under which genetic material and data are shared. Scrutinize agreements meticulously to secure fair compensation and control, ensuring royalty terms reflect the true value of your genetic contributions. 

Push for enhanced visibility and transparency from AI companies. Swift galvanized her supporters and a wider community to back her cause. Similarly, dairy breeders must vocalize their concerns, advocate for transparency in the use of genetics, and form alliances with fellow breeders to build a robust coalition.

Taking Cue from Taylor Swift in The Music Industry 

To think outside the box, let’s momentarily detour into the music world. After all, dairy breeders aren’t the only ones fighting to maintain control over their creations. Artists also face their fair share of battles to control the distribution rights of their work. Perhaps the most notorious instance is that of pop sensation Taylor Swift facing off against Big Machine Records, grappling to gain ownership of her master recordings—the heartbeat of her oeuvre. 

Does this narrative seem strikingly familiar? That’s probably because you, as breeders, often experience a similar difficulty. Despite pouring your blood, sweat, and tears into breeding and rearing top-tier bulls, you usually find yourselves stuck with limited control over the culmination of your tireless efforts. 

Swift’s Fight for Rightful Ownership 

No mountain is insurmountable for a determined climber—and Taylor Swift is a testament to that spirit. Swift dove headfirst into murky waters to take on an industry notorious for its intricate webs of ownership rights. For her, accepting the status quo wasn’t an option. Harnessing her global fame, she embarked on a brave quest to reclaim her master recordings. Swift’s solution? Rerecording her old tracks—a laborious yet impactful endeavor. 

Swift’s version, aptly dubbed ‘Taylor’s Version,’ telegraphed more than just a retelling of past albums—it highlighted the entertainment industry’s deeply rooted issues. This wasn’t just a subversive act; it was a daring leap towards artist autonomy. Through her indomitable spirit, Swift demonstrated that the trials and tribulations characteristic of any industry aren’t roadblocks but rather stepping stones toward a more equitable future.

Breeders Can Assert Their Rights Too 

Swift’s sheer grit and determination to reclaim her work send a strong message, not just to her peers in the music industry but to all those needing inspiration to fight for their rights. And this includes you, dear dairy breeders. You, too, face a struggle for control over your prized bulls. But remember, the fight is far from hopeless. 

Swift’s path can serve as a roadmap for you. Make her fight your fight. Assert your rights, reclaim control, and think outside the box for innovative solutions to challenge the status quo. The world is waiting for your move. 

Just as Taylor Swift stood her ground against the corporate giant, you, too, dairy breeders, can intensely fight for your rights. Here’s how. 

  1. Empower through education: The essential first step towards empowerment is educating yourself and your peers about the terms and implications of contracts with AI companies. Organize awareness campaigns, conduct seminars, and share informative resources to disseminate essential knowledge among breeders.
  2. Strength in unity – Unions and associations: Alone, you may be a small fish in a vast pond. But together, you could be a force to reckon with. Form or bolster existing breeders’ associations to negotiate as a collective unit. This gives you better leverage in discussions with AI agencies.
  3. Disrupt with innovation: In a rapidly advancing world, innovation drives the wheel of progress. You can compete on a level playing field with industry giants by establishing breeders-owned AI companies. Adopting new and fairer licensing models could also ensure the preservation of your sovereign claim over genetics.
  4. Contract negotiations – Believe in fairness: Ensure that contracts aren’t just pieces of legal jargon but fair arrangements that offer value to both parties. Urge for fair royalty rates that genuinely reflect your genetic contributions. Also, negotiate the terms and restrictions on genetic use and sublicensing of genetics by AI companies.
  5. Using technology as an ally: Technology should serve man, not vice versa. Use it to your advantage. Implement blockchain technology to track the usage and distribution of your genetics, which could guarantee reasonable compensation. What’s more, also consider building direct sales platforms to connect with farmers directly, bypassing unnecessary middlemen.
  6. Legal measures – Asserting intellectual property rights: Never underestimate the power of legality. Intellectual property rights can be a secure armor in this battle of rights. Engage legal counsel and explore options for patenting or trademarking your valuable genetics. Remember, it’s not just about protecting your interests but also about setting precedents for the industry.

Your fight is just as brave as Taylor Swift’s. Embrace these strategies and rise up to assert your rightful place in the dairy breeding industry. The world will take notice, just as it did with Swift. 

The Bottom Line 

 Just as Taylor Swift’s battle wasn’t merely a dispute with a record label, the fight dairy breeders face isn’t solely about conflict within the bull industry. Both scenarios hinge on the universal principles of autonomy, control, and equitable reward. Draw lessons from Swift’s campaign, where she tenaciously guarded her creative rights; you, too, need to take strides in the same spirit – stakeholders in the bull industry, take note! 

Embrace innovation and think outside the box! Consider alternative ownership structures to establish stronger control over your rightful assets. The technology is there for the taking! Leverage it to defend your interests, negotiate fairer contract terms, and secure your rights. It’s part of your competitive advantage and a means of achieving data-driven decision-making. Be not just the breeders but also the guardians of your bulls’ genetics. With these maneuvers, the once-skewed power dynamics in the bull industry can take a turn for the better. 

Inspired by Swift’s famous lyrics, being a dairy breeder, you have the power to “shake off” the old, unfair norms. You can stride ahead, parting ways with practices that put you at risk for financial losses. Assert control over your invaluable genetics. Change the public perception and bring much-needed transparency in the bull industry. Remember, safeguarding your genetics will cast an impact far beyond your business – it’s about shaping a fair, equitable future for the entire industry. 

 It’s a battle worth waging, not just for public interest and public perception but also for the future of the bull industry. Given the weight of the issue, data security should be your topmost priority. Much is at stake with the depth of big data requiring substantial storage, processing capabilities, and advanced analytics tools for actionable intelligence. It’s about protecting your competitive advantage, maintaining privacy, and delivering an accurate economic analysis. 

So stand up, battle the challenges head-on, and engineer an inter-relationship with AI companies rooted in mutual respect and fairness. Just like Taylor Swift, it’s time for you to claim your rights, ensure a brighter, more equitable future for yourself, and redefine the bull industry.

Key Takeaways:

  • Control and Ownership: Just as Taylor Swift fought for her music masters, dairy breeders must reclaim and protect their ownership rights over bull genetics against AI companies’ encroachments.
  • Market Power Imbalance: AI companies’ dominance in the bull industry creates an unfair marketplace, limiting breeders’ autonomy and profitability.
  • Intellectual Property: Safeguarding genetic data and negotiating fair contracts are crucial for dairy breeders to maintain control over their innovations.
  • Royalties and Compensation: Breeders should advocate for fair royalty structures that reflect the true value of their genetic contributions.
  • Strategic Inspiration: Dairy breeders can draw strategic inspiration from Swift’s assertiveness and resilience in protecting her creative assets.

Summary: In the modern era of streaming and digitization, intellectual property rights have become a significant challenge for artists and dairy breeders. Taylor Swift’s battle to reclaim control over her masters serves as a powerful lesson in the importance of control and ownership. The bull industry has experienced a subtle yet drastic shift, with AI companies gaining control and casting a shadow over the traditional industry. The issue of control is complex and multifaceted, encompassing control over bloodlines, genetic data, and the future of the industry. Dairy breeders face several challenges in asserting their rights in such a landscape. Ownership of genetics is a key issue faced by dairy breeders when selling their bull genetics to AI companies. Market consolidation has further stifled competition, creating an imbalance in the marketplace. Intellectual property concerns arise from AI companies enforcing stringent contracts, shackling breeders and limiting their freedom to market their genetics independently. Royalty compensation remains a challenge, as breeders may receive modest royalties compared to the hefty profits pocketed by AI companies. By taking inspiration from Swift’s battles and embracing new strategies, dairy breeders can work towards a more equitable future for their livestock and the music industry.

Categories : A.I. Industry
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2023 Global Bovine Semen Sales: Trends, Declines, and Market Shifts

Monday, May 20th, 2024

Explore the evolving trends in global bovine semen sales for 2023. How are economic fluctuations and innovative breeding practices reshaping the dairy and beef sectors?

The 2023 Semen Sales Report from the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) offers a detailed examination of the prevailing economic and genetic patterns within the global bovine semen industry. With NAAB members representing approximately 95% of the U.S. Artificial Insemination market, these statistics are indispensable for understanding semen sales trends in dairy and beef breeds, especially in light of the ongoing post-Covid challenges. 

“After reaching new records for units sold in 2021 and successfully managing two years of disruptions to the supply chain and public health challenges during Covid, the global downturn post-Covid continues to impact the genetics industry, resulting in a second consecutive year of a decline in total dairy and beef units sold,” says Jay Weiker, president of NAAB.

This article delves into critical themes: 

  • Decline in total unit sales.
  • Shifts in semen types used by U.S. dairy producers.
  • Economic and geopolitical factors impacting exports.
  • Emerging trends in heterospermic semen usage.

We offer a thorough analysis of the current market landscape and the evolving preferences of producers that are shaping the future of the bovine semen industry. 

Join us as we scrutinize the decline in total dairy and beef semen units sold in 2023, investigate the shift in reproductive management practices, and dissect the impact of global economic and geopolitical factors on semen sales.

Introduction to 2023 Bovine Semen Sales Trends

To provide a clearer understanding, the relevant data can be broken down as follows: 

Category2023 Sales (in million units)% Change from 2022
Total Units Sold66-4%
Dairy Units (Domestic + Export)46.9-5%
Beef Units (Domestic + Export)19.2-2%
Domestic Dairy Units15.5-4%
Domestic Beef Units9.4+400k units
Dairy Exports29-8%
Beef Exports4.5-6%
Gender Selected Dairy Units (Domestic + Export)8.4+518k units
Heterospermic Beef Units1.8New

“The data clearly reflects the ongoing adjustments within the industry as producers respond to economic pressures, challenges in international markets, and the evolving demands of reproductive management programs.” – Jay Weiker, President of NAAB


The U.S. bovine semen industry experienced a 4% decline in total unit sales in 2023, dropping to 66 million units—a reduction of 2.9 million units compared to the previous year. Despite this downturn, the value of exported semen soared to a record $306 million, marking an increase in the average blend price. 

Dairy unit sales plummeted by 5%, amounting to 46.9 million units—2.5 million units fewer than in 2022. Similarly, beef unit sales fell by 2% to 19.2 million units, a decrease of over 400,000 units year over year. These figures underscore the industry’s evolving landscape, prompting a need for strategic adjustments and innovation.

Examining the Decline in Domestic Dairy Semen Sales

The 2023 Semen Sales Report offers a comprehensive look at the current trends and challenges within the global bovine semen industry. With data reflecting a significant decline post-COVID-19 and evolving market dynamics, the report provides valuable insights for breeders, producers, and industry stakeholders. 

The persistent downward trajectory of domestic dairy semen sales has been evident over the past four years, accumulating to a 3.7 million unit decline. In 2023, the market saw a further 4% decrease, equating to nearly 700,000 fewer units and reducing the domestic market size to 15.5 million units. 

In stark contrast, the domestic beef semen market demonstrated resilience with a 400,000-unit increase in 2023, reaching 9.4 million units. Remarkably, 7.9 million of these units were utilized within dairy herds, as dairy producers strategically integrated beef genetics to yield high-value beef crossbred calves. 

The shift towards gender-selected dairy semen showed notable growth, with a 7% increase of 518,000 additional units in 2023. This segment now comprises 54% of the total domestic dairy units, enabling producers to effectively manage herd compositions and accelerate genetic advancements. 

These evolving dynamics highlight the strategic adaptations of U.S. dairy producers in response to market fluctuations, economic pressures, and state-of-the-art advancements in reproductive management technology.

Challenges in Dairy and Beef Exports

The downturn in dairy and beef semen exports can be attributed to multifaceted economic and geopolitical issues afflicting key markets. Once a dominant dairy importer, China has experienced an economic slump that has curtailed dairy production and diminished the demand for imported genetics. 

Russia, a pivotal market for U.S. bovine semen, is grappling with geopolitical tensions and stringent economic sanctions, resulting in a significant drop in agricultural imports. 

In Brazil, a strategic pivot towards beef production—particularly favoring Zebu—type genetics—has reduced reliance on conventional bovine semen imports. 

These challenges underscore the intricate nature of the global export environment, necessitating a calculated and strategic reassessment to stabilize and rejuvenate semen export volumes.

Global Challenges: Production Costs and Labor Shortages

The evolving landscape of reproductive management practices is shaped by escalating production costs, labor shortages, and the imperative to curtail the carbon footprint of livestock production. Financial limitations galvanize the quest for breeding strategies that are both cost-effective and efficient. 

Labor shortages necessitate automation and innovation, with nations like Japan and Australia pioneering robotic milking and automated feeding systems. 

Sustainability initiatives are increasingly directed towards mitigating the environmental impact of livestock breeding. Utilizing gender-selected semen and beef semen in dairy herds emerges as a pivotal strategy. 

Global trends underscore the critical need for adopting innovative reproductive management practices to enhance the resilience and growth of the livestock industry.

Dairy vs. Beef: Shifts in Semen Sales

The 2023 semen sales report highlights significant shifts in both dairy and beef semen markets, driven by global economic factors and changing agricultural practices. These shifts are evident in the nuanced data concerning the sales of dairy versus beef semen. 

Category2022 (Units)2023 (Units)% Change
Total Dairy Semen Sales49.4 million46.9 million-5%
Total Beef Semen Sales19.6 million19.2 million-2%
Beef on Dairy Semen Sales6.4 million7.9 million+23%
Beef on Beef Semen Sales13.2 million11.3 million-14%
Gender Selected Dairy Semen7.9 million8.4 million+7%
Conventional Dairy Semen41.5 million38.5 million-7.2%

“The preference for gender-selected and beef on dairy semen reflects a broader trend towards optimizing herd management and economic returns,” observes industry expert, Sophie Eaglen.


The dichotomy between dairy and beef semen sales has evolved, mirroring broader market and economic trends. The 4% decline in the U.S. bovine semen industry, totaling 66 million units, underscores this shift. The dairy sector saw a 5% reduction, losing about 2.5 million units to settle at 46.9 million units. The beef sector experienced a modest 2% decline, totaling 19.2 million units. This shift underscores the growing preference for beef semen among producers, driven by economic efficiency. 

The adoption of beef-on-dairy breeding strategies is a pivotal indicator, with sales increasing by 1.5 million units both domestically and internationally. This strategic move aims to enhance economic returns, with crossbred calves substantially boosting feedlot profitability. In contrast, pure beef-on-beef semen sales fell by 1.4 million units, building on a previous 4 million unit decline in 2022, reflecting shifting market demands. 

The rising costs associated with raising heifers to their first calving age compel dairy producers to balance replacement heifer production with generating high-value beef crossbred calves. This balance is achieved through the pragmatic use of gender-selected beef semen, offering a financial lifeline amidst escalating costs. 

In 2023, U.S. dairy producers pivoted towards gender-selected dairy semen, reaching 8.4 million units, surpassing beef on-dairy units at 7.9 million and conventional dairy units at 7 million. This strategic shift optimizes genetic progress and economic viability, aiming to produce precisely the number of replacement heifers needed. 

The introduction of heterosporic semen, with 1.8 million units sold and 1.3 million domestically, marks a significant innovation, positioning it as the second most popular beef ‘breed’ following Angus. 

Global market dynamics significantly influence these trends. The rising demand for high-quality dairy and beef products pressures U.S. producers to innovate continuously. While domestic demand for conventional dairy semen diminishes, robust demand from the export sector sustains reliance on U.S. genetics. The industry’s strategies balance enhancing domestic production efficiencies and meeting robust international market demands.

The Rise of Gender-Selected Dairy Semen

The rise in gender-selected dairy semen usage marks a strategic evolution in the reproductive methodologies of dairy farmers. This technology, which significantly increases the likelihood of female progeny, is intrinsically tied to the economic demands of contemporary dairy farming, enhancing operational efficiency and maximizing output. 

Domestically, a rise of 518,000 units in usage underscores a global pattern driven by international markets prioritizing precision and efficiency. With 54% of U.S. dairy units now consisting of gender-selected semen, we observe a considerable transformation within the industry. 

Below is a detailed look at the rise of gender-selected dairy semen, both domestically and in export markets: 

CategoryUnits Sold (Million)
Gender-selected Dairy (Domestic)8.4
Gender-selected Dairy (Export)8.6
Total Gender-selected Dairy17.0

This shift not only propels genetic advancements but also facilitates targeted breeding strategies that elevate herd quality and boost milk production. Addressing the substantial costs of raising heifers offers a pragmatic approach to achieving predictable breeding outcomes. 

The global embrace of this trend is evident, with 8.6 million units exported and significant uptake in markets like China and Brazil. This widespread adoption underscores a universal pivot towards optimized dairy operations leveraging advanced reproductive technologies. 

Embracing gender-selected semen epitomizes the shift towards sustainable and economically sound dairy farming practices. As technology advances, its integration into reproductive management programs is set to expand, cementing its pivotal role in contemporary dairy breeding.

Heterospermic Semen: A New Player in the Market

The 2023 Semen Sales Report sheds light on several significant trends reshaping the U.S. bovine semen industry. Notably, the inclusion of heterospermic semen statistics has garnered attention, indicating its growing popularity among producers. Heterospermic semen, a combination of sperm from different bulls, seems to be establishing itself as a notable player in the market. Below are the detailed statistics for 2023: 

CategoryTotal Units SoldDomestic UnitsExport Units
Heterospermic Beef1.8 million1.3 million0.5 million

“This makes heterospermic beef the second largest ‘breed’ of beef semen sold, following Angus in first place.”

Emerging as a significant trend within the 2023 semen sales statistics, heterospermic semen has made a marked impact on the market. Traditionally focused on purebred genetics, introducing heterospermic semen—a fusion of sperms from different bulls—has captivated breeders by enhancing genetic diversity and improving overall herd performance. 

This innovative product addresses critical issues such as reducing genetic defects and optimizing the efficiency of breeding programs. In 2023, heterospermic beef semen saw substantial adoption, with 1.8 million units sold, including 1.3 million in the domestic market, making it the second most popular option after Angus. 

The shift towards heterospermic semen marks a strategic evolution in breeding practices. It enables more effective genetic diversification while mitigating the risks associated with single-sire insemination. This approach harmonizes sustainability, productivity, and genetic health within herds. 

The rapid market penetration of heterospermic semen illustrates the industry’s adaptability. It provides a solution that meets both economic and genetic improvement goals. To support this growth, it is essential to integrate heterospermic semen into global breeding programs. 

Ultimately, the success of heterospermic semen highlights the sector’s dynamic nature. It is poised to revolutionize traditional breeding practices and pave new pathways for genetic advancement worldwide.

Top International Markets 

RankCountryUnits ImportedValue (USD)
1China8,400,000$108,000,000
2Brazil7,600,000$96,000,000
3United Kingdom6,200,000$92,000,000
4European Union5,900,000$88,000,000
5Russia5,400,000$84,000,000

The international landscape for U.S. bovine semen exports has significantly shifted in the past year. For the third consecutive year, China has cemented its position as the leading export market in total units and dollar value, underscoring its growing reliance on U.S. genetic material to bolster its dairy and beef industries.

Despite a reduction of 718,000 units from 2022, Brazil maintains its status as the second-largest importer by volume, driven by a strategic focus on Zebu type genetics. This shift clearly indicates Brazil’s evolving genetic preferences and market strategies. 

The United Kingdom has become the second-highest market regarding dollar value, overtaking Russia. This change reflects the intricate geopolitical and economic challenges that have impacted Russia’s import capabilities. 

There’s been a notable increase in high-value importers, with 37 international markets each importing over $1 million worth of U.S. bovine semen in 2023, and 16 countries exceeding the $5 million threshold, up from 11 countries in 2022. This surge in high-value importers signifies the broadening acceptance and robust demand for U.S. genetic material across diverse markets. 

These top 37 markets collectively accounted for 92% of the total export units and 94% of the dollar value. These statistics underscore these key regions’ concentrated yet lucrative nature and highlight the expansive global footprint of U.S. bovine genetics. Moreover, they reflect ongoing adjustments by countries worldwide to optimize livestock production in the face of evolving economic and environmental challenges.

The Bottom Line

In the wake of a challenging economic landscape, the 2023 semen sales report delineates crucial trends and transformations within the bovine genetics arena. The ongoing global decline post-COVID has significantly impacted dairy and beef units, culminating in a 4% reduction in total sales. This decline, exacerbated by geopolitical dynamics such as China’s economic downturn and the instability in Russia, has led to a tepid performance in export sales, notwithstanding a record-breaking value in exports. 

Domestic dairy semen sales continue their four-year descent, driven chiefly by a considerable shift towards beef units. This trend mirrors producers’ adaptive reproductive strategies to enhance economic outcomes amidst soaring heifer-rearing costs. 

The rise of gender-selected and heterospermic semen products epitomizes the industry’s shift towards more specialized solutions. While domestic producers are increasingly turning to gender-selected dairy semen, the strong export demand for conventional semen underscores the diverse requirements of the global market. 

The U.S. bovine genetics market’s resilience is demonstrated by the continued importation of high-value semen by leading international markets, despite various economic and logistical challenges. The emergence of heterospermic semen highlights the industry’s innovative approaches to addressing intricate market demands. These insights reaffirm the bovine genetics sector’s agility and deep connection to global economic conditions and industry performance.

Key Takeaways:

The 2023 Bovine Semen Sales Report highlights significant shifts and trends within the global genetics industry, reflecting both challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for producers and policymakers. The report, compiled by the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB), underscores pivotal changes in market dynamics, influenced by economic uncertainties, technological advancements, and evolving breeding strategies worldwide. 

  • Decline in Total Unit Sales: The global downturn post-COVID continues to impact the genetics industry, resulting in a 4% decline in total unit sales, marking a second consecutive year of reduced sales.
  • Record Value of Exports: Despite a decrease in the number of units sold, the value of exported semen reached a new high of $306 million, indicating an increase in average blend price.
  • Differential Impact on Dairy and Beef Sectors: Dairy semen sales experienced a substantial 5% decline, whereas beef semen sales saw a modest 2% decrease, with nuanced shifts between beef on dairy and beef on beef sales.

“The high value of young beef crossbred calves makes it very appealing to dairy producers to produce F1 calves for the feedlots, amidst rising costs of raising a heifer,” explained Jay Weiker, president of NAAB.

  • Rise of Specific Semen Products: Gender-selected dairy semen and heterospermic semen units emerged as significant categories, with notable increases and market share, particularly within the U.S. market.
  • Export Market Dynamics: While traditional markets like China and Brazil remain significant, geopolitical and economic challenges in regions like Russia have reshaped the export landscape, with the UK emerging as a top market by dollar value.
  • Global Producer Challenges: Issues related to production costs, labor shortages, and environmental considerations are driving changes in reproductive management practices and the types of semen products utilized around the world.


Summary: 

The 2023 Semen Sales Report from the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) reveals a 4% decline in total dairy and beef semen sales, largely due to economic and geopolitical issues. Domestic dairy sales have been declining for four years, while the domestic beef semen market showed resilience, with a 400,000-unit increase in 2023. The shift in the industry is influenced by broader market and economic trends, with the dairy sector experiencing a 5% reduction and the beef sector experiencing a modest 2% decline. The introduction of heterosporic semen, the second most popular beef ‘breed’, is a significant innovation. The rise in gender-selected dairy semen usage is driven by international markets prioritizing precision and efficiency. Heterospermic semen, a fusion of sperms from different bulls, has also seen substantial adoption.

Categories : A.I. Industry

Celebrating 150 Years of Innovation and Progress: The Success Story of Coöperatieve Rundveeverbetering

Wednesday, May 1st, 2024

Discover how Coöperatieve Rundveeverbetering’s 150 years of innovation has revolutionized dairy farming. Will their new polled bulls change the game further?

As we usher in 2024, we get ready to light the candles on a magnificent milestone; the 150th anniversary of the esteemed Coöperatieve Rundveeverbetering (CRV). This is not just your typical celebration, rather it’s an acknowledgment of a century and a half of dedication coupled with remarkable innovation. Over this period, CRV has been a beacon of reliable figures, steering Dutch and Flemish dairy farmers towards significant progress in breeding. 

CRV states: “In the first proof run of the anniversary year, through their daughters’ performance, our bulls confirm their genomic breeding values and the value of the reliable CRV breeding programme.”

This assertion not only amplifies the success of CRV’s breeding programme but also emphasizes the early commitment to new developments. For instance, it’s intriguing to observe how this commitment has translated into a fascinating array of new polled bulls for the FeedExcel breeding strategy in the proof run. 

  • Dependable innovation and accurate figures leading to breeding advancement
  • Celebration of 150 years marked by the success of CRV bulls in the first proof run
  • Early dedication driving the generation of new polled bulls for the FeedExcel breeding strategy

So, as we raise a glass to toast to CRV’s 150 years, let’s also take a moment to appreciate the relentless pursuit of excellence and continuous adaptability that will no doubt pave the way for many more successful years to come.

Summary: The 150th anniversary of Coöperatieve Rundveeverbetering (CRV) is a significant milestone in the history of Dutch and Flemish dairy farming. CRV has been a beacon of reliable figures, driving significant progress in breeding over the past century. In the first proof run of the anniversary year, the success of CRV’s breeding program was confirmed through the performance of their daughters’ bulls. This underscores the early commitment to new developments, such as the generation of new polled bulls for the FeedExcel breeding strategy. The celebration of CRV’s 150 years is not just about celebrating its achievements, but also about appreciating the relentless pursuit of excellence and continuous adaptability that will pave the way for many more successful years to come.

Categories : A.I. Industry

Record-Breaking Domestic Beef Semen Sales

Sunday, April 21st, 2024

Just think of it, a whopping 9.4 million units of beef semen were sold in the United States during 2023. That’s an impressive uplift of 4.6% from the prior year, keeping us on a six-year streak of record-breaking sales. The grand leap in this cycle occurred back in 2018 when sales skyrocketed by 58%. 

Breaking those figures down, 7.9 million units of this grand total were used in dairy herds. That’s a considerable upshift from the former year. Interestingly though, there was a dip in the sale of beef semen to beef cattle. This trend was spotted in both domestic and export markets causing a drop of 1.4 million units. 

The U.S. bovine semen industry hit a bit of a bump in the road last year, with a 4% decline in total unit sales, slumping 2.9 million units from the previous year, 2022. We can partly attribute this to a 4% drop in domestic dairy semen sales, sadly marking the fourth consecutive year of dwindling sales.

It wasn’t only domestic sales that struggled, exports were hit too. Deliveries of both dairy and beef semen stumbled, falling 8% and 6% from 2022, respectively. Looking at the bigger picture of export sales, overall beef semen sales shrunk by 2%. 

On the global stage, overseas markets splurged on 21 million units of conventional dairy semen in 2023, three times the volume sold within our home turf. However, there was a silver lining in this tale. Gender-selected semen, the frontrunner category of semen used in dairy cows, climbed the ranks by 518,000 units, a commendable rise of 7%.

Read more: National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB)

Categories : A.I. Industry, News

Coyne, Vander Poel and Waymire Assume New Roles At Select Sires

Tuesday, April 16th, 2024

To accommodate the need for advanced genetic support and training to reflect Select Sires Inc.’s and World Wide Sires’ global influence, Brian Coyne, Amber Vander Poel and Ashley Waymire will assume new or expanded roles.

“Brian’s passion for genetics and the dairy industry, combined with his desire to find solutions that increase the success of our salespeople and customers, make him a great fit as the new manager of applied genetic strategies,” said Rebekah Mast, vice president global talent development, Select Sires Inc. and World Wide Sires, Ltd. “I anticipate this change will expand our ability to provide advanced training to our teams worldwide. This also provides a great opportunity for Amber and Ashley to grow in their recently acquired positions. With Brian, Amber and Ashley working closely together, I’m excited by the greater capacity to deliver strategic and profitable solutions to our teams and customers.”

For the last five years, Brian Coyne has been leading the development of genetic tools, including Select Mating Service® (SMS®), StrataGEN®, and the newly released pedigree index calculator (PIC) as a business analyst within Select Sires’ information systems (IS) department. In this role, Coyne served as a liaison between the business and IS to create relevant tools for consultants and dairy farmers. While training field teams on new tools, the need for advanced instruction on the best application of existing resources and sales processes became apparent. To support this, Coyne will be transitioning to the talent development team as the manager of applied genetic strategies. He will work alongside the World Wide Sires genetic dairy solutions team to serve genomic testing partners, while developing and delivering training on the latest genetic traits, trends and tools to field teams domestically and abroad

Amber Vander Poel has worked with World Wide Sires for three years and has quickly earned recognition for delivering technical training and genetic strategies to teams internationally. Beginning in May, Vander Poel will spend a percentage of her time working for CentralStar Cooperative as a reproductive and genetic consultant. In this role, Amber will leverage reproductive monitoring, genetic strategies and inventory management to analyze data and support dairies in the region. Vander Poel will also accept some of Coyne’s previous responsibilities related to genetic tool development and IS coordination. As a senior genetic analyst, Vander Poel will continue to support the maintenance, advancement, and delivery of genomic solutions for global customers.

Some of Vander Poel’s international responsibilities will be transferred to Genetic Support Specialist Ashley Waymire who recently transitioned from part-time to full-time as she completes her master’s degree in animal biology at the University of California, Davis. Waymire will take on increasing levels of responsibility to support team members through practical training and application of genetic tools to develop strategies for international customers.

Based in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc. is committed to enhancing the productivity and profitability of dairy and beef producers. Highly fertile semen and genetic consultation are provided by three farmer-owned and -controlled cooperatives domestically, while World Wide Sires, Ltd. delivers international service. As the industry leader, Select Sires Inc. supplies farmers and ranchers with the world’s best genetics, services and programs.

Categories : A.I. Industry

Broad CRV Fleckvieh range offers top-quality bulls for every breeding goal

Friday, April 12th, 2024

All Fleckvieh breeders have their own personal requirements. CRV’s Fleckvieh program offers a broad range of bulls that will always meet ones breeding goal, whether that is on kilos milk, on increasing fat and protein or on achieving additional progress on meat traits such as growth and muscularity. On top of that, CRV offers top-quality polled bulls and bulls that fit the needs for herds with automatic milking systems.

Virginia daughters increase in second lactation

During the April 2024 proof run, Makay (Malawi x Varta), who was heavily used as an InSire bull, got his first breeding values based on daughter performance resulting in 132 GZW. With breeding values of +345 kg Milk, +0.24% fat and +0.08% protein, Makay clearly improves fat and protein components. He sires solid udders (121) with excellent udder health (125). Makay daughters can be perfectly milked automatically and have a long lifespan expectation (breeding value 117).

Virginia
Virginia

The production breeding value of Virginia (Villeroy x Hubraum) is now based on the performance of 523 daughters. His oldest daughters now calved for the second time and are showing a great production increase. Virginia rose to a production breeding value of +955 kg of milk, a milk index of 123 and scores 135 GZW. He is also an excellent conformation sire with 113 feet and legs and 115 udders. Virginia increases milking speed (114), breeds cows suitable for robotic milking and can be used on heifers (113 calving ease).

Component winners and kilo champions

The new polled InSire bull Sumatra Pp* (Sputnik x Victim PP*) is a great example of the all-round breeding goal of CRV. He increases both milk production (+609 kg of milk) and components (+0.18% of fat and +0.07% of protein) and scores a lifespan breeding value of 124. His daughters are expected to be trouble-free producing Fleckvieh cows that can easily be automatically milked with +7% CRV Health with 123 daughter fertility and 117 udder health. Sumatra Pp* scores 142 GZW.

Sumatra P
Sumatra P

InSire bull Hallgraf (Hoeri x Verzaubert) is a true kilo champion with production breeding values of +995 kg of milk, +84 kg of fat and protein resulting in a milk index of 129. His daughters will combine a high milk production with excellent fertility (126) and great udders (117). Hallgraf also sires a longer lifespan (120).

Hudora (Hellstorm x Virginia) has a milk index of 129 and sires +1,281 kg of milk and +80 kg of fat and protein. He has a breeding value for udder conformation of 119 and his daughters will be expected to calve easily (113) and have good udder health (110) and fertility (112).

Donut (Deluxe x Webmaster) is also a kilo champion for production with +1,187 kg of milk and +78 kg of fat and protein resulting in a milk index of 128. He increases udder health (116) and daughter fertility (114), improves the udders (119) and is a perfect choice for dairy farmers who use robotic milking systems.

Dual-purpose bulls for milk and meat

With 141 GZW, Vienetta (Virginia x Wombat) is a high-scoring newcomer with an all-round profile. He sires more than 800 kg of milk with +0.03% protein, a meat index of 115 and a lifespan breeding value of 117 With breeding values of 123 for udder health and 117 fore daughter fertility, he scores +7% CRV Health.

Woidboy P*S (Wintertraum x Majestaet PP*) is a dual-purpose bull with a milk index of 120 and a meat index of 117. His daughters will also achieve a longer lifespan (113). Woidboy is suitable for farmers who use robotic milking systems, he improves udder health (116) and his calves are born easily (116).

Woidboy P
Woidboy P

Inside Pp* (Iq P*S x Mydarling) is also a dual-purpose Fleckvieh bull with a milk index of 122, a meat index of 115 and a muscularity breeding value of 108. Inside is also an excellent conformation sire with, 123 udder, 106 frame and 103 feet and legs. He improves udder health (121), but also increases the milking speed (119). This new InSire bull is also suitable for dairy farmers who use automatic milking systems.

Categories : A.I. Industry

American Farmer-Owned Premier Select Sires Announces Record Sales for 2023

Monday, April 8th, 2024

Premier Select Sires recently announced record sales to member owners of $41.5 million dollars for 2023. This reflects $2 million dollars in growth for semen and product sales in the year completed December 31. Operating profit was $800,000 and all segments of the cooperative showed increased sales.

“We are proud to serve the farmer owners of the 23 eastern United States in our area of service ranging from Kansas to Maine and to Florida. We listen to what our customers need and are glad to be seeing increased sales to those customers by meeting those needs with a highly trained team,” CEO Mark Carpenter announced during the meeting.

Parfect, Luster-P, and Lionel were the three highest selling sires in 2023, and feed additive Select DTX from Agrarian was recognized as the fastest growing product line in the history of Premier Select Sires. Select DTX has seen rapid adoption on many farms due to a recent research trial that showed 3.5 pounds of milk gain and increased conception on cows using DTX compared to the control group.

VP of Marketing Kirk Sattazahn also credited the activity system CowManager for increased satisfaction by customers. “Premier has always been focused on service and customer support. We are seeing how CowManager plays a key role in helping dairy and beef cattle owners make smart decisions at the farm level while receiving mating and reproductive assistance from the Premier team servicing the account,” said Sattazahn.

During the meeting, new officers from the board of directors were elected. These include Kenny Taylor from Tennessee as President, James Cook from Virginia as 1st Vice President, Jim Houser from Pennsylvania as 2nd Vice President, Mike Saylor from Tennessee as board Treasurer, and John Edd Harris from Georgia as board Secretary. New delegates and board members were also elected and seated during the meeting.

President Taylor reported that there was not much new news on the planned merger between Select Sires and ST genetics. “I am glad that Premier Select Sires will remain a locally owned cooperative with equity that stays with the American farmer,” said Taylor. “As an increasing number of other semen providers get bought out by foreign owned private enterprises, our key beneficiary at Premier remains the American dairy and beef cattle owner.”

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 two sister cooperatives in the United States, Premier owns and controls Select Sires Inc., the world’s most recognized name in bovine genetics.

Categories : A.I. Industry

Ethan Haywood joins Select Sires as Genetic Specialist

Thursday, March 28th, 2024

“Ethan’s background, education and on-farm work have prepared him well for this role. He combines science-based principles with practical experiences to make tactical decisions,” said Jeff Ziegler, vice president of dairy cattle breeding, Select Sires Inc. “We’re excited to watch Ethan grow in this role and deliver tremendous benefits to farmers around the world.”

Haywood is a 2018 graduate of Michigan State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science in animal science with a focus in dairy science and genetics. His collegiate highlights included winning the 2018 North American Intercollegiate Dairy Challenge and founding the Spartan Production Dairy Sale. He was also a member of the Michigan State University dairy judging team, served as the Michigan FFA State vice president and was a National FFA officer candidate.

Since his graduation, Haywood returned to his family’s dairy, Sand Creek Dairy LLC, in Hastings, Michigan. He oversees genomic, embryo transfer, and reproductive programs of the 1,200-cow dairy. Sand Creek Dairy’s intense IVF program has elevated the herd to new heights, putting high-ranking progeny in the spotlight and earning the herd genetic and reproductive recognition.

Haywood has served in various advisor and committee roles in recent years. He is presently completing his term as a member of Select Sires Inc.’s Jersey sire committee. Haywood is a past chair of CentralStar Cooperative’s DHIA Advisory Committee and serves on the American Jersey Cattle Association’s GJPI™ and JUI™ Advisory Committee. He is also active in the Michigan Holstein Association and Michigan Jersey Cattle Club. In 2023, he received the Outstanding Young Breeder Award from the Michigan Jersey Cattle Club. Haywood’s industry involvement has helped develop his passion for quality genetics and strategic genetic advancement and make him an ideal fit for his new role at Select Sires Inc.

Categories : A.I. Industry

Premier Gives Over $20,000 in Support to Scholarship Applicants

Monday, March 18th, 2024

Premier Select Sires awarded over $20,000 to students through the 2024 Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program. Two students received $2,500 scholarships through the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship and the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Nineteen other students received scholarships of $500 to $1,000 in value. Six students received an Honorable Mention with a $100 cash award and semen gift certificate.

Alex Empet of Kingsley, PA is the son of Richard and Dana Empet. Alex received the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship. Alex is from Empet Farms, a dairy farm with 150 milking cows and a total of 350 head. He is a student at SUNY Cobleskill studying Dairy Production and Management. After college, Alex plans to return to Susquehanna County to continue working on the family farm. He hopes to update the facility and serve as an advocate for animal agriculture in his community.

Paige Peiffer of Lebanon, PA is the daughter of Ammon and Brenda Peiffer. Paige received the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Paige is from Boxed-In Acres, a dairy farm that milks 80 Holsteins and raises all of their own replacement heifers and calves. She is a student at Penn State University studying Animal Science (Science Option). After college, Paige plans to work in the artificial insemination industry. She also wishes to stay active on her family’s dairy farm.

Lemuel Coltrane of Pleasant Garden, NC is the son of Amy and David Coltrane. Lemuel is from Coltrane Dairy LLC, a dairy farm with 550 milking cows and a total of 1,300 head from heifers to dry cows. He is a student at NC State University studying Agriculture Science. After college, Lemuel plans to return to the family farm. He is excited to bring the skills and knowledge he has gained through his education back to the farm.

Sarah Diehl of McVeytown, PA is the daughter of Joe and Kristin Diehl. Sarah is from Musser Run Jerseys, a 240-cow registered Jersey farm. She is a student at Virginia Tech University studying Dairy Science – Pre-Vet Track. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree, Sarah hopes to attend veterinary school to become a licensed food animal veterinarian. She wishes to treat animals and help farmers discover new ways to improve their overall herd health and profitability.

Julia Heijkoop of Mayo, FL is the daughter of Johan and Trisha Heijkoop. Julia is from Milk A Way and K&H Dairy, where they have 2,000 dairy cows. She is a student at the University of Florida studying Agriculture Operations Management with minors in Management and Sales in Agribusiness, and Agriculture and National Resource Ethics and Policy. After college, Julia aspires to serve as an agricultural lobbyist and to work in agricultural marketing.

Darcy Heltzel of Martinsburg, PA is the daughter of Andrew and Jennifer Heltzel. Darcy is from Piney-Mar Farm, a dairy farm with 150 milking/dry cows and 120 heifers. She is a student at Iowa State University studying Food Science with a minor in Animal Science. After college, Darcy hopes to become a food scientist. Through this role, she will advocate for dairy foods, help farmers by creating new avenues for their milk, and have a complete understanding of food processing from cow to consumer.

Bethany Knutsen of Harrington, DE is the daughter of Stephanie and Gregg Knutsen. Bethany is from G&S Dairy, a dairy farm with 60 milking cows and 120 total head. She is a student at the University of Delaware studying Plant Science. After college, Bethany plans to become a certified agronomist and someday own an independent agronomy business. She wants to help farmers do what is best for their land so they can be profitable and sustainable, achieving higher production with fewer resources.

Katheryn Longenecker of Williamsburg, PA is the daughter of Doug and Yvette Longenecker. Katheryn is from Penn England Farms, LLC, a dairy farm with 2,100 milking cows and 4,000 total head. She is a student at Penn State University studying BioRenewable Systems – ASM Option. After college, Katheryn plans to become an agricultural engineer or acquire a job in product validation or field testing equipment under an agriculture equipment company. With precision agriculture gaining popularity and importance in the industry, she desires to play a part in the impact technology will make in the future.

Victoria Longenecker of Williamsburg, PA is the daughter of Doug and Yvette Longenecker. Victoria is from Penn England Farms, LLC, a dairy farm with 2,100 milking cows and 4,000 total head. She is a student at Penn State University studying Biological Engineering. After college, Victoria plans to work for the Natural Resources Conservation Service as an Agricultural and Environmental Engineer. She looks forward to helping take pressure off of farms in meeting regulations, while helping the agriculture industry have a positive impact on the environment.

Constance Maxwell of Shady Dale, GA is the daughter of Cuyler and Christy Johnson. Constance is from Godfrey Dairy Farm, a Holstein farm milking 1,000 cows. She is a student at Illinois College studying Agriculture Business. After college, Constance hopes to join the workforce in the agriculture industry. She wants to become a bridge between dairy producers, consumers, and agricultural companies, fostering positive communication and understanding.

Lydia Brown of Mill Creek, PA is the daughter of Scott and Emily Brown. Lydia is from Valley Meadow Farm, an Angus operation with 40 head of cattle. She is a student at Penn State University studying Animal Science. After college, Lydia hopes to attend veterinary school and pursue a career in animal medicine. She also plans to continue raising beef cattle on her family’s farm.

Joseph Coltrane of Pleasant Garden, NC is the son of David and Amy Coltrane. Joseph is from Coltrane Dairy LLC, a dairy farm with 550 milking cows and a total of 1,300 head from heifers to dry cows. He is a student at NC State University studying Agricultural Science. After college, Joseph plans to return to the family farm. He hopes to use his education to learn new techniques and technologies, broaden his knowledge of agriculture, and build relationships with people in the agricultural field so he can help the farm produce quality products, ensure animal comfort and care, and run an efficient, healthy dairy farm.

Katelyn Heckman of Kutztown, PA is the daughter of Tracie and Chris Heckman. Katelyn is from TBM Farm, a Holstein operation with 170 milking cows and 300 total head. In college, she plans to study Animal Science / Pre-Vet Medicine. After college, Katelyn plans to attend vet school and become a large animal veterinarian. She also wishes to study embryology and breeding and learn to help others maximize herd potential on dairy farms. She plans to continue helping on her family’s farm as well.

Salem Sifford of Goldvein, VA is the daughter of Stephen and Rosemary Sifford. Salem is from Roseview Cattle Farm and Plessed-Rose Dairy, where she and her family own 50 head of dairy and beef cattle. She is a student at Virginia Tech University studying Dairy Science. After college, Salem hopes to find a career working in livestock extension so she can work hands-on with producers, be involved in advocating for agriculture, and work with future generations of agriculturists. She also plans to continue to operate her own herd of beef and dairy cattle.

Jordan Anderson of Centre Hall, PA is the daughter of Donald and Angela Anderson. Jordan is from Locust Rock Farm / Cabaret Cattle Company where she and her family raise Holsteins and Jerseys. She is a student at University of Wyoming studying Agriculture Communications. After college, Jordan hopes to pursue a career in agriculture communications and work in a capacity that allows her to be an advocate for the dairy industry. Whether this is in the marketing department of a company or working in education for a nonprofit, her hope is to bridge the gap between producers and consumers.

Rachel Craun of Mt. Crawford, VA is the daughter of Kevin and Patti Craun. Rachel is from Van Ike Farm, where she owns about 20 head of Holsteins of her own. She is a student at Purdue University studying Agricultural and Biological Engineering. After college, Rachel plans to pursue a career in agricultural engineering. She hopes to work for a private engineering firm focusing on ag-related projects, or for the Natural Resource Conservation Service. She has interest in new technologies and how they can be used to be proactive in staying ahead of environmental regulations that impact agriculture.

Isaac Folts of North Collins, NY is the son of Josh and Virginia Folts. Isaac is from Folts Farms LLC, where they milk 120 cows with two Lely robots. They also have a show barn housing 45 show animals. He will attend Cornell University to study Animal Science. After college, Isaac plans to take over the family business. He hopes to use the lessons learned from his education to adapt the farm and maximize potential.

Karl Graulich of Cobleskill, NY is the son of David and Suzanne Graulich. Karl is from Argus Acres LLC, where they milk 500 registered Holsteins. He is a student at Iowa State University studying Agronomy. After college, Karl plans to return to his family’s farm and help expand it alongside his older brother and father. His role will be that of crop manager.

Ainsley Sellers of Lebanon, PA is the daughter of Kraig and Meranda Sellers. Ainsley is from Gem-Rock Holsteins, where they milk 60 cows. She will attend Penn State University to study Animal Science. After college, Ainsley aspires to be a dairy robotics technician that installs and maintains robots on dairy farms. She enjoys working with both farmers and animals, and she feels this career will help her enhance the lives of both.

Timothy VanLieshout of Verona, NY is the son of Stephen and Cynthia VanLieshout. Timothy’s family operates a dairy farm milking 1,100 Holsteins, with 2,200 total head. He is a student at SUNY Morrisville studying Animal Science – Dairy. After college, Timothy plans to return to the family farm. He hopes to then earn a management/owner’s position.

Natalie Yoder of Belleville, PA is the daughter of Michael and Maria Yoder. Natalie is from Dryhouse Farm, a Registered Holstein farm with 200 milking cows and 450 total head. She is a student at Penn State University studying Agribusiness Management with a minor in International Agriculture. After college, Natalie plans to enter the agriculture field in the area of sales, marketing, or management. She is interested in jobs that promote agriculture to the consumer as well as positions that provide support to the agriculture community.

Honorable Mentions for the scholarship program include:

  • Nicole Arrowsmith of Peach Bottom, PA
  • Macy Chapman of Taylorsville, NC
  • Alleigh Johnson of Statesville, NC
  • Zachary Johnson of Tunbridge, VT
  • Luke Larson of Okeechobee, FL
  • Amber MacNeil of Hoosick Falls, NY 

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.

Categories : A.I. Industry

2023 Semen Sales Report Reflects Global Trends

Friday, March 15th, 2024

The National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) recently reported the consolidated report of annual semen units in 2023 for the categories of domestic sales, export sales, custom collection and imported units for dairy and beef breeds. With approximately 95% of the U.S. artificial insemination industry represented by NAAB members, these annual statistics provide an accurate insight of the sales of U.S. bovine semen.

“After reaching new records for units sold in 2021 and successfully managing two years of disruptions to the supply chain and public health challenges during Covid, the global downturn post-Covid continues to impact the genetics industry, resulting in a second consecutive year of decline in total dairy and beef units sold,” said Jay Weiker, president of NAAB.

Globally, dairy producers continue to adjust their reproductive management programs and make breeding programs that provide the best economic return for their business. Producers are using different combinations of conventional and gender-selected dairy semen, along with beef semen, to improve their bottom line. In the U.S., the type of semen used by dairy producers has shifted, and the largest category in 2023 was gender-selected dairy semen at 8.4 million units, followed by beef on dairy at 7.9 million units and then conventional dairy at 7 million units.

New to the NAAB semen sales statistics is the reporting of heterospermic semen units. 2023 semen sales reveal the newfound popularity of the heterospermic beef product at 1.8 million units sold with 1.3 million being domestic sales. This makes heterospermic beef the second largest ‘breed’ of beef semen sold, following Angus in first place.

Click here for the complete 2023 report from NAAB.

Categories : A.I. Industry

Select Sires welcomes Abby Foss to communications team

Friday, March 15th, 2024

Abby Foss has joined the Select Sires communications team in a part-time internship role. Upon her graduation from the University of Minnesota – Twin Cities in May with degrees in animal science and agricultural communications and marketing, Foss will join the team in a fulltime capacity.

“Abby’s strong dairy industry background, coupled with her enthusiasm and passion for communications make her an ideal addition to our creative team,” said Leslie Maurice, director of communications, Select Sires Inc. “We’re excited to utilize Abby’s experience in videography and podcast production to help better connect with our farmer-owners.”

A native of Cambridge, Minnesota, Foss was extremely active in 4-H as well as Holstein and Brown Swiss breed associations, exhibiting animals at the local, state and national levels with great success. As an undergraduate, Foss has secured internships with Midwest Dairy and Isanti County 4-H. Focusing heavily on digital media, written communication and producer relations, Foss drafted farmer profile stories and created social media content targeting consumers and producers alike. A highlight of her time spent with Midwest Dairy was assisting with the Princess Kay of the Milky Way program where she ideated storyboards, shot, and produced the Princess Kay coronation video. Foss has honed several valuable communications skills from her experiences that provide her with a solid foundation to create promotional content for the Select Sires federation and the cooperative’s farmer-owners.

Based in Plain City, Ohio, Select Sires Inc. is committed to enhancing the productivity and profitability of dairy and beef producers. Highly fertile semen and genetic consultation are provided by three farmer-owned and -controlled cooperatives domestically, while World Wide Sires, Ltd. delivers international service. As the industry leader, Select Sires Inc. supplies farmers and ranchers with the world’s best genetics, services and programs.

Categories : A.I. Industry

JLG Custom Services Acquires 5 Star Sires Bull Lineup

Friday, March 1st, 2024

JLG Custom Services announces the acquisition of 5 Star Sires to the sire lineup at JLG Custom Services. This collaboration brings together a wealth of expertise and innovation to the Jersey industry.

Michael Heath and Jake Spatz’s vision of genetic selection approach, prioritized purebred, JX free cow families renowned for their excellence both in the show ring and the milk barn. With this strategic partnership, JLG Custom Services is dedicated to upholding and expanding upon Michael’s legacy, offering a diverse program that encompasses show ring excellence, top genomics, and the most esteemed cow families in the breed. The extensive selection of elite sires is now available for immediate access, enabling breeders to elevate their programs to new heights.

Experience the difference with “5 STAR SIRES” where cow families matter.

Visit the 5 STAR SIRES Facebook page here

Contact JLG Custom Services at 209.847.4797 today to secure your top sires and embark on a new era of Jersey genetics.

Categories : A.I. Industry

CentralStar Cooperative hires seven 2024 summer interns

Wednesday, February 21st, 2024
CentralStar Cooperative, serving dairy and beef producers in the upper Midwest, will host seven interns, this year, in their genetics, laboratory, and research and development business units.
 
Five students will join the genetics and artificial-insemination (A.I.) team as A.I. Specialist Interns. Katelyn Sohrweide, Chilton, Wis., is a sophomore at University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wis., majoring in dairy science and life sciences communication with a certificate in agricultural business management. Her passion for agriculture comes from growing up on a small dairy farm in Chilton, Wis.
 
First-year student, Abbygail Foster, Juda, Wis., is studying animal science at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, Fennimore, Wis. She was raised on a small dairy farm, and recently, she’s bred and raised her own herd of shorthorn beef cattle.
 
Audrey Tarochione is from a commercial beef and row-crop operation in west-central Illinois. She will complete undergraduate work in animal science and industry at Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kan., this spring and plans to pursue a graduate degree at Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, in the fall. Tarochione is passionate about cattle and is interested in breeding and genetics, reproductive technologies, and commercial production.
 
Mondovi, Wis., native, Alan George, grew up on a small beef farm and raises his own herd. He was involved in 4-H, FFA, football, and wrestling while growing up and now attends West Texas A&M University, Canyon, Texas, majoring in agriculture business and economics.
 
Jenna Naber, Holland, Mich., is a junior at Michigan State University, Lansing, Mich., majoring in animal science with a concentration in dairy. 
 
CentralStar’s Kaukauna, Wis., laboratory will be welcoming Brooke Zillges, this summer, as their laboratory intern. Zillges, a Winneconne, Wis., native, is a freshman at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Platteville, Wis., studying agricultural business with a minor in dairy science.
 
The research and development business unit at CentralStar foresees and studies opportunities for helping dairy cattle be healthier and more productive. Last year’s intern, Evan Ma, will be returning to research and development for an encore contribution. Ma is from Dublin, Ohio, and is a junior at The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, pursuing a bachelor’s in animal science with a minor in computer science. He does research in the field of molecular biology on various livestock species. As an officer of the Fish and Wildlife Society, he dedicates his efforts to conservation work. “I’m excited to be back interning at CentralStar,” Ma says, “I think we did some good work last summer, and I’m excited to continue doing the research.” 

 

Categories : A.I. Industry