Low Carbon Technologies (LCT), the industry-leading agricultural sustainability company and a division of Select Sires Inc., has hired Ron Schuller to focus on business leadership and marketing strategy. He will join an experienced team and help to manage the responsibilities and timelines associated with the Low Carbon Technologies USDA PVP, LCT Enrolled and the Low Carbon Technologies USDA Climate Smart Pilot Programs. Schuller will collaborate with various departments to facilitate LCT operations, including science and program development teams, beef and dairy supply chains, ProfitSOURCE^® and GeneNet^® programs, IT, marketing, communications and human resources.

“Ron has an extensive background in brand management and marketing strategy,” said David Thorbahn, president and CEO, Select Sires Inc. “We look forward to welcoming him to Low Carbon Technologies and Select Sires. Ron has been tapped to develop a marketing strategy, implement business process, and elevate brand awareness for this new initiative within Select Sires Inc.”

Schuller has more than 30 years of experience in a variety of roles, including key executive leadership positions within specialty retail, consumer packaged goods and financial services. He has worked with some of the world’s most successful brands as a strategic consultant and owns a boutique consultancy, Red Barn Consulting, based in Dublin, Ohio. Prior to Red Barn Consulting, Schuller was the chief marketing officer of Benjamin Moore & Co. – a Berkshire Hathaway company. He also spent many years in fashion apparel retail where he held chief marketing officer and executive marketing and strategy leadership positions.

Schuller is a graduate of The Ohio State University where he earned his Bachelor of Science in business finance and focused his graduate studies in marketing at the Fisher College of Business. He currently serves on the Advisory Board of Directors of The Ohio State University Fashion and Retail Studies Program within the Fisher College of Business.

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

Showbox Sires LLC, a new genetic venture backed by trusted industry leaders, will be collaborating with Select Sires and Semex to bring a high-type, show-focused sire development program to dairy breeders. The team at Showbox Sires includes Tim and Sharyn Abbott and Mike and Julie Duckett. Both couples have had tremendous success in the industry and have combined their experiences and sheer passion for genetics to launch this new venture. Showbox Sires will leverage the industry’s many tools, including genomic evaluations as well as pedigrees that are proven winners on the tanbark. At this time, Showbox Sires will offer elite Holstein and Red & White genetics with tentative plans to release the first sire in late 2023.

“Whether you want to improve your herd, compete at the county fair or exhibit a winner at national shows, Showbox Sires is built from families that have done just that! Our vision is to acquire and develop bulls to meet the needs of any passionate dairy breeder,” said Tim Abbott, Showbox Sires LLC. “The team at Showbox Sires is thrilled to work with two companies that have set the pace for high-type cattle through industry-leading genetics over the past several decades: Select Sires and Semex. We believe our thought process and goals are closely aligned, and we look forward to working with their teams to bring our product to this sector of the global market.”

Cooperative collaboration

All bulls from Showbox Sires will be branded with a single, unique NAAB identifier. While Select Sires and Semex are the program’s exclusive marketing and distribution channels, no individual sire will be marketed by both companies. Select Sires and Semex will house the sires assigned to their lineup and carry out collection, processing and distribution. It is expected that both conventional and sexed semen will be available for these sires.

“We’re excited to work with the Abbotts, the Ducketts and their amazing cows and cow families,” said Brad Sayles, chief operating officer, Semex. “Their long, successful track record, and the deep passion for the future of their enterprise, make this cooperative effort a logical option for both A.I. organizations. Semex and Select Sires share a common foundation of farmer ownership and the common goal of meeting our clients’ genetic needs. Adding this relationship further enhances our mutual histories of excellence.”

“As farmer-owned organizations, Select Sires and Semex uphold customer success and genetic transparency to the highest degree,” said Jeff Ziegler, vice president of dairy cattle breeding, Select Sires Inc. “Partnering with experts in the field to grow our offering and continually exceed the expectations of our farmer-owners is paramount. We are grateful to work with Tim and Sharyn and Mike and Julie to afford our farmer-owners the benefit of their expertise and professionalism.”

To order Showbox Sires genetics

A unique website to promote Showbox Sires is currently under construction. To order semen, please contact your local Select Sires or Semex representative.

After serving farmer-owners for nearly 25 years on behalf of COBA/Select Sires Inc., Bruce Smith joins Select Sires Inc. as the manager of global sire products and logistics. In this new role he will monitor member marketing sales and export trends to predict product demand. Based on this information, Smith will coordinate sire movements, determine production needs and semen inventory, while ensuring proper health qualifications for sires to fulfill forecasted sales and shipping deadlines.

“Select Sires is excited to welcome Bruce to the marketing department,” said Jeff Reidman, vice president of Latin America marketing and dairy sire services. “Bruce knows the dairy and beef industry inside and out. His many years of service with COBA/Select Sires included working closely with customers to craft their genetic and reproductive strategy. There is no doubt that those experiences and skills, combined with his professionalism, leadership, and passion for customer success, make him the ideal candidate for this position.”

Smith has more than 38 years of experience in the dairy industry. After graduating from The Ohio State University with his bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics, he worked for Milk Marketing Inc. for 11 years and then joined the team at COBA/Select Sires Inc. Since 1998, he has provided customers with genetic consultation as a district sales manager and beef specialist. Smith has worked alongside local Select Mating Service^® (SMS^®) specialists and Select Reproductive Solutions^® (SRS^®) specialists to improve the genetics and reproductive performance of the herds he served and has successfully introduced programs and resources, including NxGEN^® and ProfitSOURCE^® as well as genetic audits and genomic testing. Because of his dedication to customer success, Smith is a two-time recipient of Select Sires’ Super Achiever award and has been honored as a member of the President’s Club multiple times.

Outside of Select Sires, Smith is heavily involved in dairy and beef industry organizations, including the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Ohio Holstein Association, Holstein USA, Ohio and Union County Farm Bureau and Ohio Cattleman’s Association, where he serves as a member on the Allied Industry Council.

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

Carla Stetzer, CentralStar Cooperative, and Tim Hyde, Select Sires MidAmerica, were honored at Select Sires’ annual Trusted Advisor Conference in late April. The 2023 conference was held in Fresno, California and hosted by All West/Select Sires. Stetzer was named the Select Mating Service^® (SMS^®) Specialist of the Year, while Hyde was named the Select Reproductive Solutions^® (SRS^®) Specialist of the Year.

“We recognized outstanding individuals with the SMS and SRS awards,” said Jeff Reidman, vice president of Latin America marketing and dairy sire services, Select Sires Inc. “Our federation benefits from the expertise of these team members and they bring immense value to the herds they serve. From sire selection and mating knowledge to reproductive troubleshooting, both Carla and Tim help dairy producers improve their herds to enhance their profitability.”

Stetzer grew up in the dairy industry and continues to be involved with Registered Milking Shorthorns. She hails from Jackson County, Wisconsin where she resides with her husband, Dan, and three sons. Stetzer began working for Accelerated Genetics in 2001 as a genetic consultant and has since been a tremendous asset to the CentralStar and Select Sires teams. As an SMS genetic consultant serving west central Wisconsin, southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa, Stetzer has worked with many herds for two generations of ownership. Her passion for the dairy industry and helping customers exceed their goals is her motivation.

“Carla is deeply valued by her customers because of her vast knowledge and expertise,” said Phil Dieter, chief executive officer, CentralStar Cooperative. “Her friendly and helpful demeanor combined with years of experience, make her a go-to mentor for colleagues. She finds balance between encouraging customers to think outside of the box and try new things, while simultaneously strengthening the existing relationships and providing what they already desire. Her eye for cows and tremendous work ethic boosts our cooperative.”

Hyde was raised on a dairy farm in Idaho and went on to manage dairies in Colorado and New Mexico, the latter of which he shared ownership. Prior to working for Select Sires MidAmerica and COBA/Select Sires in a joint reproductive specialist position, he was employed by Accelerated Genetics in a similar role. He has since assumed the role of regional sales manager for the state of Idaho, now working exclusively for Select Sires MidAmerica and continues to work with many Idaho dairies to improve their reproductive programs. Additionally, Hyde is a key account manager and works with the Idaho team to connect customers with valuable resources to achieve their goals.

“Tim is a consummate professional who brings his real-world experiences and extensive dairy background to the Select Sires MidAmerica customers he works alongside,” said Devin Albrecht, general manager, Select Sires MidAmerica. “He is very collaborative with the herds he works with and continually challenges them to improve their reproductive performance.”

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

Premier Select Sires awarded a total of $25,950 to students through the 2023 Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program. Two students received $2,500 scholarships through the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship and the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Fourteen other students received scholarships of $750 to $1,250 in value.

William Coltrane of Pleasant Garden, N.C. is the son of David and Amy Coltrane. William received the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship. William is from Coltrane Dairy LLC, a Holstein operation milking 5,500 cows. He is a student at the University of Mount Olive studying Ag Business and Animal Science. After graduation, William plans to return to his family’s fourth generation farm. He says that although today’s farmer faces many challenges, the future looks better, and he plans to play a part in helping farmers gain the respect they deserve for their dedication and work ethic.

Julia Heijkoop of Gainesville, Fla. is the daughter of Johan and Trisha Heijkoop. Julia received the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Julia is from Milk A Way Dairy (1,070 milking cows) and K&H Dairy (760 milking cows, 315 dry cows and springers). She is a student at Santa Fe College studying Agriculture Operations Management with a minor in Agriculture and Natural Resource Law. After graduation, Julia hopes to work in policy and become a lobbyist for an agriculture-related company. She wants to work with lawmakers to pass legislation that will support farmers and ranchers while promoting the sustainability of the agriculture industry. 

Jordan Anderson of Centre Hall, Pa. is the daughter of Don and Angela Anderson. Jordan is from Locust Rock Farm (home of Cabaret Cattle Company), an operation with 20 head of cattle. She is a student at the University of Wyoming studying Agriculture Communications. After graduation, Jordan plans to pursue a career that allows her to advocate for the agriculture industry and help give hardworking farmers a voice that reaches consumers. She is also considering working in the marketing and communications department of an agriculture company.

Elise Balmer of Lititz, Pa. is the daughter of Jeffrey and Jesslyn Balmer. Elise is from Stoney Path Farm, a dairy operation with 120 milking cows and a total of 240 head. She is a student at Lebanon Valley College studying Exercise Science. After graduation, Elise plans to become a physical therapist. In her role, she hopes to connect with farmers who may need physical therapy for various injuries that can occur on-farm and educate patients without an agricultural background on the benefits of agriculture.

Hayley Daubert of Dayton, Va. is the daughter of Jeremy and Rebecca Daubert. Hayley is from Stox Dairy, a dairy operation with 30 head of cattle. She is a student at South Dakota State University studying Dairy Manufacturing with a Microbiology Focus. After graduation, Hayley plans to become a physician assistant. She hopes to work in the emergency room of a rural hospital. She believes the medical profession needs more people with a farming background to understand how to best treat those with a farming lifestyle, and to help farmers through difficult times when farming accidents occur. She also hopes to start a farmstead cheese business.

Brooklyn Drake of Marathon, N.Y. is the daughter of Richard and Susan Drake. Brooklyn is from Drake Farms, a Holstein operation with 600 head of cattle, milking 320 head. She is a student at SUNY Cobleskill studying Agriculture Business. After graduation, Brooklyn hopes to pursue a career as a middle school agriculture educator, work part-time at a local dairy processing plant, and run her own business selling vegetables, cut flowers, pumpkins, mums, wreaths, etc. Through her ventures, she hopes to promote the dairy industry in numerous ways.

Laurel Gray of Stony Point, N.C. is the daughter of Andy and Amy Gray. Laurel is from Grayhouse Farms, a dairy operation with a 1,200-cow milking herd. She is a student at North Carolina State University studying Agricultural Business Management. After graduation, Laurel plans to return to her family’s dairy farm to assist with the financial aspects of the business including payroll, bills, and accounting. She also enjoys field work and working with calves and heifers. In addition, she plans to raise and sell beef direct to consumer and play a role in her family’s hunting business.

Darcy Heltzel of Martinsburg, Pa. is the daughter of Andrew and Jennifer Heltzel. Darcy is from Piney-Mar Farm, a dairy farm with150 milking and dry cows and 120 heifers. She is currently a senior at Central High School and plans to pursue a degree in Food Science with a minor in Animal Science. With her education, she hopes to impact both her family’s heritage of farming and the lives of others by advocating for dairy’s story in food production.

Madelynn Hoffman of Manheim, Pa. is the daughter of Curt and Psuche Hoffman. Madelynn is from Tui Genetics where they milk 65 cows with a robot and have about 200 animals in total. She is a student at Cornell University studying Animal Science. Madelynn is currently in a pre-vet track in school and is thinking of becoming a veterinarian. She has considered specializing in reproduction or genetics. Madelynn would like to someday have her own business, either a veterinary practice, dairy farm, or both.

Regan Jackson of Boyce, Va. is the daughter of Kevin and Laura Jackson. Regan is from Waverly Farm, a Jersey operation in Clearbrook VA. She is a student at Louisiana State University studying Food and Nutrition with a minor in Biology. After graduation, Regan plans to attend medical school and become a doctor. She will use her position to advocate for production agriculture among doctors and patients. She also plans to volunteer with many of the youth organizations that molded her and guided her to many opportunities.

Kendal Jenkins of Columbia Crossroads, Pa. is the daughter of James and Tracy Jenkins. Kendal is from Leona-View Holsteins, a dairy operation milking 60 registered Holsteins. She is a student at Penn State University studying Animal Science, and she will also graduate with a Smeal College of Business Certificate. After graduation, Kendal plans to pursue a career as a dairy nutritionist. She feels that this career path will allow her to be involved in multiple agricultural areas such as animal science, cow care, agronomy, forage crop management, and more.

Lainey Koval of Stillwater, N.Y. is the daughter of Christopher and Jennifer Koval. Lainey is from Koval Brothers Dairy, LLC, a dairy operation milking 500 Holsteins. She is a student at Cornell University studying Agricultural Science. After graduation, Lainey plans to pursue a career where she can work alongside farmers, either in agricultural sustainability or financial and business management. She hopes to assist farmers in ensuring their farms remain viable and able to feed communities while also protecting their land and earning a living.

Katheryn Longenecker of Williamsburg, Pa. is the daughter of Doug and Yvette Longenecker. Katheryn is from Penn England LLC, a dairy operation with 2,010 milk cows and 1,850 heifers. She is a student at Penn State University studying Animal Science. After graduation, Katheryn plans to obtain a job as a sales representative or nutritionist for a feed company. As she grew up on the farm and showed animals, she enjoyed the advice of others serving in those positions and hopes to help other producers raise animals that grow and produce to their best ability.

Constance Maxwell of Shady Dale, Ga. is the daughter of Cuyler Johnson. Constance is from Godfrey Dairy Farm LLC, a Holstein operation milking 1,100 cows. She is a student at Georgia Military College and the University of Georgia studying Agriculture Business with a minor in Dairy Science. After graduation, Constance hopes to pursue a career in which she can serve as a bridge between dairy producers, consumers, and agricultural companies. She is passionate about creating opportunities to help shape and heal the dairy industry and other agriculture industries.

Charles Patterson, V of Chestertown, Md. is the son of Charlie and Sherry Patterson. Charles is from Patterson Farms Inc., a Holstein operation milking 300 cows. He is a student at Purdue University studying Ag Systems Management. After graduation, Charles plans to return to his family’s dairy farm and use what he learned in college to make the farm more efficient and profitable. He also hopes to expand the farm in the future.

Danae Ranck of Ronks, Pa. is the daughter of Darrell and Tina Ranck. Danae is from Walnut Hollow Farm, a dairy operation milking 65 cows. She is a student at the University of Arkansas studying Agricultural Communications. After graduation, Danae hopes to work for an organization that is educating consumers about the truth behind food and farmers. She has special interest in working strategically with children and low-income families to make sure they are educated about nutrition and food.

Honorable Mentions for the scholarship program include:

• Joseph Coltrane of Pleasant Garden, N.C.
• Lemuel Coltrane of Pleasant Garden, N.C.
• Alex Empet of Kingsley, Pa.
• Rachel Featherstone of Manhattan, Kan.
• Katelyn Poitras of Brimfield, Mass.
• Madison Sifford of Goldvein, Va.
• Cole Verano of Okeechobee, Fla.

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

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

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

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

The National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) has announced their second cohort of the Advanced Training for Animal Agriculture Leaders, and ABS Global Beef Testing Coordinator Grant Sardella is among the twenty honorees. Sardella was nominated by peers, then applied and was accepted to the elite second-ever cohort.

NIAA is a non-profit organization that provides programs that work towards providing solutions for disease, fostering a safe and wholesome food supply, and promoting the best practices of environmental stewardship, animal health, and well-being. With guidance from its members and stakeholders, NIAA developed the Advanced Training for Animal Agriculture Leaders as a world-class leadership and experiential program to empower animal agriculture leaders to positively affect the future of animal agriculture.

Candidates for the program must demonstrate leadership in the agriculture industry and be committed to advancing animal agriculture’s role in today’s food system. After cohort nominations, potential candidates must apply to the program and be accepted.

“Grant represents the kind of talent our industry needs to cultivate and develop,” says Jared Wareham, NuEra Business Development Manager, who nominated Sardella. “He has all the raw talent to be a genuine leader. Opportunities like this serve as the perfect incubator to help young leaders evolve and thrive.”

Over 16 months, program participants partake in five in-person three-day seminars, regular virtual meetings, and a final group capstone presentation at the NIAA Annual Conference. Throughout the program, curriculum cornerstones include critical thinking, leadership development, connecting and relating skill development, and operational excellence.

“I’m really thankful to be a part of this cohort and have this chance to develop as a leader,” says Sardella. “I’m very excited to meet cohort members from other areas of the agriculture sector, learn what they do, and work together to create quality products for consumers.”

Sardella will begin the program in February with an in-person seminar in Kansas City, Missouri.

About ABS Global

Headquartered in DeForest, Wisconsin, USA, ABS Global is the world-leading provider of bovine genetics, reproduction services, technologies, and udder care products. Marketing in more than 70 countries around the globe, ABS has been at the forefront of animal genetics and technology since its founding in 1941. In bovine genetics, ABS serves more than 40,000 customers globally, including some of the world’s leading beef and dairy producers. ABS Global owns bull studs in Europe, North America, Latin America, and India, selling genetics to dairy and beef customers in North America, Latin America, Asia and Europe. ABS Global is a division of Genus plc.

Data from Performance Livestock Analytics software and competitive grid marketing access from GeneNet helps beef producers market the value of their cattle

Zoetis and Select Sires Inc. are excited to announce their partnership to help cattle producers gain more from data. The partnership provides a grid marketing service, GeneNet^™, which will provide Performance Livestock Analytics customers a designated marketing platform to communicate and promote the value of their cattle. Select Sires’ farmer-owners will gain value with access to the Precision Animal Health portfolio from Zoetis, including beef genetic testing and Performance Livestock Analytics software.

The GeneNet grid marketing service negotiates fed-cattle pricing based on carcass characteristics including quality and yield grade. With this partnership, Performance Livestock Analytics customers will receive an exclusive offer to use GeneNet’s competitive marketing grids and gain bargaining power for the quality cattle they raise, plus carcass data on those cattle.

“This partnership creates a winning opportunity for producers,” said Justin Sexten, head of Industry and Network Partnerships, Precision Animal Health, Zoetis. “GeneNet allows cattle feeders to leverage their animal data from our management software to strategically market their investment in quality genetics and exceptional management. This information arms them with collective negotiation power on GeneNet’s marketing grids to communicate to buyers the value of their cattle.”

Cloud-based software developed by Performance Livestock Analytics, part of Zoetis, helps digitize cattle records and turn data into actionable insights to inform strategic decisions regarding health, genetics, marketing and financials.

Sandra Utter, GeneNet manager at Select Sires Inc., said the collaboration with Zoetis will help drive better genetic and management decisions to breed and market quality cattle.

“Because Select Sires is positioned at the front and back end of the beef production chain, we can help beef producers capture and analyze data that allows them to create, measure, manage and make changes to increase profitability from conception to consumption,” Utter said. “Data captured in Performance Beef can help us evaluate cattle performance in the feedlot and provides the necessary history and genetic makeup critical to successfully marketing on GeneNet grids.”

Through this partnership with Select Sires, Zoetis will begin the development of connecting the carcass data to the digital ecosystems for Performance Livestock Analytics and BLOCKYARD™ to enable more seamless management and genetics decision-making tools. This integration will provide participating customers access to valuable carcass data within their current platform for Performance Beef^®. This will help minimize data entry and also provide producers insights into how their use of elite genetics is performing on the rail and adding value.

Select Sires customer, Trent Winter, of Wintergreen Farms in Clifton, Kansas, has benefited from marketing cattle through GeneNet. He emphasized the need for data to make good marketing decisions.

“Without the data, it’s hard to see the progress or know the areas to improve,” Winter said.

From the carcass data Wintergreen Farms received from GeneNet, they made sire selection adjustments to improve their cattle’s marbling ability and ultimately optimize both premiums and yields on the grid.

For Zoetis and Select Sires customers interested in learning more about competitive and profitable marketing opportunities for their cattle, visit GeneNetBeef.com.

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

As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After 70 years innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect and treat animal illness, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide, from livestock farmers to veterinarians and pet owners. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. A Fortune 500 company, Zoetis generated revenue of $7.8 billion in 2021 with approximately 12,100 employees. For more, visit zoetis.com.

Select Sires Inc. announces the creation of Low Carbon Technologies, LLC, as part of its farmer-owned cooperative. Low Carbon Technologies will serve beef and dairy farmers who are looking to document, verify and improve their operation’s carbon footprint and overall sustainability.

“Our farmers are looking for ways to both prove and improve how they are producing food sustainably. Through Low Carbon Technologies, we intend to be their partner in increasing the value of environmental stewardship to their operations,” said David Thorbahn, president and CEO, Select Sires Inc.

As part of its launch, Low Carbon Technologies is acquiring Low Carbon Beef, LLC (LCB). This cattle certification company enables beef farmers and ranchers to add value to cattle that are raised with less greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. LCB is a USDA Process Verified Program (PVP) service provider and has the distinction of being the first PVP for calculating the GHG emissions for the beef production life cycle.

Colin Beal, Ph.D., founder of Low Carbon Beef, has been named CEO of Low Carbon Technologies and Chief Sustainability Officer at Select Sires Inc.

“LCB’s certification programs enable farmers and ranchers to earn premiums for reducing carbon emissions of their operation,” said Beal. “We are excited to develop Low Carbon Technologies with Select Sires given Select Sires’ long history of helping beef and dairy producers enhance productivity and profitability.”

Low Carbon Technologies’ science-based certification programs utilize a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) to determine certification scores for candidate cattle based on management practices and cattle performance. The criteria in the current program span the “four F” categories of feed, fuel, fertilizer and cattle function to determine the life cycle greenhouse gas emissions of the cattle being evaluated.

Low Carbon Technologies will certify cattle regardless of the source of genetics. Longer term, the enterprise intends to expand sustainability assessments to other agriculture goods.

“Every day, farmers are taking action to be more sustainable,” said Beal. “Farmers and ranchers who produce cattle efficiently and with reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and the packers or processors who participate, deserve a premium for their efforts to improve the carbon footprint of beef products. Low Carbon Technologies provides third-party certifications that retailers, restaurant operators, and consumers need to make informed choices about their beef.”

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

Semex UK, thinks it can reduce methane production by 20–30% by 2050 by breeding cows that make less methane.

The company has been working with Lactanet, a Canadian company that keeps track of milk and looks at its genetics, and the University of Guelph to find a genetic way to stop methane emissions.

Over the past 5 years, Canada’s milk-recording organisations have collected more than 13 million milk mid-infrared (MIR) spectroscopy records, of which 700,000 were analysed by Lactanet geneticists to predict methane emissions from milk-recorded cows across Canada.
Methane must be cut by 2050.

The results showed that genetic selection can be used to cut methane emissions by a lot. Scientists found that there was an 85% correlation between the methane that was collected and the methane that was predicted. This means that there is a genetic way to reduce methane. This is because, along with the microbes, the cow’s genes also affect how much methane is made in the rumen.

The trait is 23% heritable, which is similar to how production and immune response can be predicted with 70–80% accuracy. It has no effect on yields or fat and protein levels, so Semex said at its annual conference in Glasgow that methane production could be cut by 20–30% by 2050, depending on how much selection is done.

Semex’s vice president of research and innovation, Dr. Michael Lohuis, said that the study was important: “We know that genetics has a major role to play in reducing emissions because it is the main way dairy farmers can produce more outputs with less emissions from fewer inputs. But this technology takes the contribution of genetics to the next level.”
Consider methane when you breed cows.

Semex and Lactanet are now putting the technology on the market all over the world. In April, Lactanet will publish a value that breeders can use to reduce methane emissions from their herds. From then on, dairy farmers will only be able to get a methane index for all tested females through Semex Elevate. This will let them include methane in their breeding plans and get to a lower methane herd that much faster.

Drew Sloan, vice president of Corporate Development for Semex, said that methane is the world’s biggest problem right now. He said, “In many countries, agriculture, especially cattle, is blamed for excess emissions, and many developing countries have passed laws that aim for net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.” This is another way to lower emissions on farms, which will help reach that goal.

In response to the announcement at the Glasgow conference, Stuart Roberts, a former vice president of the NFU, said, “This is great news. Society expects us as an industry to do our part to fight climate change. I think it’s a real breakthrough that we now have a genetic tool that can help us a lot on this journey.”

The UK government has been putting pressure on the industry to reduce methane emissions, and last year it asked for information on feed products that reduce methane emissions. Feed products that stop methane from being made could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, especially from cattle kept in barns. Some of the things that might be in these products are things that stop methane from being made, seaweeds, essential oils, organic acids, probiotics, and antimicrobials.

CentralStar Cooperative, serving dairy and beef producers in the upper Midwest, will host nine interns, this year, in their genetics, laboratory, and research and development business units.

Six students will join the genetics and artificial-insemination (A.I.) team as A.I. Specialist Interns. Averie Sieverding, Bellevue, Iowa, is a junior at Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, majoring in animal science with a minor in business. Sieverding comes from a fifth-generation crop and cattle farm. Her passion for large animals and reproduction started young. Today, she raises beef cattle with her sister, utilizing both embryo transfer and A.I.

University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Platteville, Wis., is the school of choice for Austin Rider, who’s a junior majoring in dairy science. He grew up on a family hobby farm in Sauk City, Wis., showing dairy cattle at the state, national, and world levels. Alyssa Derks was raised on a 60-cow, tie-stall dairy farm in Cadott, Wis. She attends Northeast Iowa Community College, Calmar, Iowa, pursuing a degree in agricultural business. Taylor Mulder, Fremont, Mich., is a junior studying animal science at Michigan State University, Lansing, Mich. Her agriculture background includes growing up on a cow-calf operation, showing pigs, and overall involvement in FFA.

Jake Baumgartner, Genoa, Wis., is the fifth generation to continue farming, and he takes great pride in that. Baumgartner attends Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, Fennimore, Wis., for agribusiness science and technology with an emphasis on animal science. As a student at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, Sydney Schroeder, Lancaster, Wis., is also studying agribusiness science and technology with an emphasis in animal science. She’s involved in The F.A.R.M. Club, Professional Agricultural Students, Community Action and Public Safety Club, the livestock-judging team, and student senate. Schroeder grew up working with her uncle and grandpa on the family’s dairy farm, Pitzen Family Farms, Dickeyville, Wis. She was involved in FFA, raising her own swine, beef, and lambs, as well as serving as an officer and competing on the livestock- and soils-judging teams. Schroeder serves her community on the local fire department and with emergency medical services.

CentralStar’s Kaukauna, Wis., laboratory looks forward to welcoming Maddie Smith, this summer, as their laboratory intern. Smith says her life revolves around agriculture. She grew up on her family dairy farm in Bonduel, Wis., which has been in the family for four generations. Some of her passions include showing dairy cattle, horses, pigs, poultry, and rabbits at the county fair. Smith is currently attending St. Norbert College, De Pere, Wis., for a degree in organismal biology; she wants to be an animal geneticist.

The research and development business unit at CentralStar foresees and studies opportunities for helping dairy cattle be healthier and more productive. Two interns will join the research group this summer.

Growing up in Mason, Mich., Irene Nielsen was involved in 4-H, showing dairy and beef cattle, as well as lambs. Dairy cattle have always been a primary interest of hers, and she developed a small herd of registered Holsteins she shows on a state and national level. Nielsen attends Iowa State University with a dairy-science major and minors in public relations and international agriculture. She’s involved with the Dairy Science Club, Honors Program, undergraduate research, An-Cy Guide Program, and the Center for Food Security and Public Health.

Evan Ma, Dublin, Ohio, is a sophomore at The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, pursuing a Bachelor’s in animal science with a minor in computer science. Ma says, “I’m excited to work with dairy cows, because I love everything dairy, and I think they’re generally great to work with. I also enjoy molecular biology, so I’m really excited to get to know everyone I’ll be working with this summer!”

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

Hannah Ziegler has joined Select Sires’ corporate communications department as a multimedia communications specialist. Ziegler will be responsible for website management and will provide support for video production and social media strategy. She will collaborate with various departments to create e-newsletter campaigns and connect field staff with educational resources. Ziegler’s contributions will amplify Select Sires’ voice across multiple media platforms to strengthen the cooperative’s brand image.

“Hannah has a vast skillset, strong agricultural background and a vibrant work ethic,” said Leslie Maurice, director of communications, Select Sires Inc. “She joins our team with a passion for Select Sires and the success of our farmer-owners.”

In 2022, Ziegler graduated cum laude from The Ohio State University where she majored in agricultural communication and minored in animal science. She was named an Outstanding Senior in the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. Throughout her undergraduate career, she leveraged internship opportunities to expand and refine her skillset. She is an accomplished writer with numerous articles published in the AgriNaturalist magazine. Ziegler also has experience creating engaging content and boosting brand performance on social media.  

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

The deadline to apply for the 2023 Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program offered by Premier Select Sires is January 31, 2023. Premier will award up to $20,000 to students within the cooperative territory through this program, and students meeting the eligibility requirements below are encouraged to apply. Students can access scholarship forms under the “News” tab of www.premierselectsires.com, by calling (570) 836-3168, or by emailing office@premierselect.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Brandon Thesing has accepted the role of associate vice president of corporate accounts for Select Sires Inc. Thesing has dedicated nearly 12 years to the Select Sires federation, first working as a key client specialist in Minnesota and most recently as a corporate account manager for the I-29 region. In his new role, he will be responsible for maintaining, growing and developing business relationships. Thesing has a keen business sense and expert knowledge of genetic and reproductive management. Sizeable operations that span multiple states will benefit from Thesing’s move to this new role. He will work closely with these herds to leverage genetic opportunities and to create cohesive strategies that encompass the entire operation, including satellite facilities. Thesing will also collaborate with Select Sires’ corporate account team and member marketing personnel to best serve the needs of Select Sires’ farmer-owners.

“Brandon’s years of industry experience and dedication to Select Sires make him the perfect fit for this new role,” said Lyle Kruse, vice president of U.S. market development, Select Sires Inc. “He will serve some of the nation’s most progressive dairy operations as a trusted advisor and help them maximize genetic progress and reproductive efficiency.”

Thesing is a 2011 graduate of the University of Minnesota with a Bachelor of Science in animal science and a 2021 graduate of the Krannert School of Business Executive Masters of Business Administration program. In 2015, he was awarded the Select Sires Activity System Specialist of the Year award and in 2016 he was honored as Select Sires’ Select Reproductive Specialist of the Year.

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

The December sire summaries resulted in new genetic leaders at International Protein Sires (IPS). “As a result of the recent sire proofs, we are excited with the new group of superior Holstein sires. These new leaders provide diversified genetics to meet dairy farmers specific requirements. And they fulfill our stringent guide of “Breeding Cows, Not Numbers,” said Ron Sersland, President, and CEO.

566HO1362 OUTFIT is the leader of the new IPS genetics at +3062 GTPI. As a member of the Holstein Association’s Top 200 GTPI sires, OUTFIT has many attributes. He excels in components at +99 lbs. (+.24%) fat and +44 lbs. (+.07%) protein. His production is a solid +744 lbs. milk. Type traits are also superior at +1.38 type and +2.20 UDC. And his health traits excel at +1191 DWP$, +1062 NM$, and +6.2 PL. An A2A2 sire, OUTFIT has been identified with the highly sought after analysis of 216 by aAa. This new breed improver is sired by Outcome from a high testing daughter of Pursuit. Special note, OUTFIT is readily available to sire your next high genomic male or female with no contract restrictions.

566HO1363 DIAL IN is an appropriate name for a genetic leader at +3015 GTPI. In upholding the high component reputation at IPS, DIAL IN excels at +105 lbs. (+.23%) fat and +47 lbs. (+.06%) protein. This breed pacesetter is shown to have improved conformation at +1.56 type and +2.27 UDC. Another A2A2 sire, DIAL IN has excellent health traits at +1044 NM$ and +5.5 PL. His analysis code as shown by aAa is 126. DIAL IN is sired by Expectant, from a young and promising VG-85 Gamechanger daughter. There are multiple generations of high classified dams in his lineage.

566HO1359 TELEMARK PP RC is the #1 Red Carrier and homozygous polled genomic sire of the breed at +2771 GTPI. Slated as a component booster, TELEMARK PP RC is +76 lbs. (+.23%) fat and +42 lbs. (+.12%) protein. This A2A2 dehorning specialist also offers solid conformation; +1.23 type and +1.68 UDC. His positive linear traits for udder are off the charts. In addition, productive life ranks high at +4.2. While this family has not received proper notoriety, TELEMARK descends from a deep outcross cow family. Sired by Extra P, TELEMARK is from a promising young Presley PP daughter. His maternal cow family is loaded with high test, both butterfat and protein.

566HO1364 ADONIS-RED is the leading IPS Red & White Holstein for conformation. His exceptional traits are +3.49 type, +1.96 UDC, and +2.02 FLC. With these high credentials, linear scores are remarkable. He is more than high type on paper. It is rare to find a high Genomic type bull from a proven show cow. ADONIS-RED inherits these platitudes from the breed’s outstanding red cow family. ADONIS-RED’s dam is a proven show winner. His Very-Good-88 dam by Warrior placed third in a highly competitive 2-year-old class at the International Red & White Show, held in conjunction with the 2022 World Dairy Expo. His grandam is the World Famous, KHM Regiment Apple-Red (EX-96-DOM). His next dam is Kamps-Hallow Altitude (EX-95-DOM). And the family’s fountainhead is Clover-Mist Augy Star (EX-94-DOM). On the sire side, ADONIS-Red is a son of Latenite.        

     These new leaders exemplify the pacesetting genetics throughout the IPS Holstein lineup. They ensure durable, high performance dairy cattle for the most discreet dairy farmer. IPS semen is available in North America and across the globe from company employees and independent distributors. Located in Rock Springs, Wisconsin, additional information is available through the IPS website, www.ipssires.com or by calling toll free: 1.800.542.7593 

The CentralStar Cooperative Board of Directors recently announced Mark Adam of Eaton Rapids, Mich., as the 2022 Pioneer Award recipient. Established in 1977, the Pioneer Award recognizes individuals who, through selfless and dedicated service and leadership, have provided the cooperative and its members greater prosperity.

“Mark epitomizes the word pioneer in our cooperative,” shared CentralStar Board of Directors President Paul Trierweiler. “He helped blaze the way for CentralStar to provide DHI Services. As our very first Director of Integrated Services, he implemented a team structure which enabled integration of all the cooperative offers to better serve our farmers and owners.” 

In 2000, after years of planning by the Board of Directors to diversify the cooperative, NorthStar-Select Sires, Michigan DHIA, and Fox Valley DHIA merged, creating NorthStar Cooperative. Around this time, the Select Sires Federation purchased Sire Power, where Adam was the Eastern Regional Sales Manager, opening the door for him to join the cooperative and become the inaugural Director of DHI Services.

Adam led the cooperative’s DHI Services for nine years, growing it from 1,000 herds representing 135,000 cows, to 1,350 herds with more than 285,000 cows. During this time, he facilitated mergers with Chippewa County DHI and Elkhart County DHI. As the cooperative’s offerings grew, so did the need for a leader to focus on integrating the various business areas. In January 2009, Adam was named Director of Integrated Services with the responsibility to create teams to better serve owners and customers. In 2015, Adam became General Manager and Executive Vice President of the cooperative. With the merger between East Central/Select Sires and NorthStar Cooperative, Adam was appointed Chief Operating Officer of CentralStar, a role he held until retirement in 2020.

Adam was a member of the NDHIA Board of Directors for six years, during which he was elected vice-president, and in 2006, became the first DHI Manager ever elected president of the 45-year-old organization. In 2022, Adam was awarded the NDHIA Outstanding Service Award. Along with his involvement at NDHIA, Adam served as Dairy Industry Advisor for the Michigan State University Dairy Club, a member of the Dairy Data Working Group as appointed by the Council On Dairy Cattle Breeding, and North American DHI Representative to the International Committee for Animal Recording Metering Devices Sub-Committee.

Kristy Temple has been named a Reproductive Services Specialist Supervisor for Premier Select Sires’ Northern Region. Kristy is returning to Premier after previously serving as a Reproductive Services Specialist (RSS). As an RSS, she excelled in providing artificial insemination services and promoting the Premier Select Sires portfolio to dairy and beef producers.

In her new role, Kristy will manage a team of Reproductive Services Specialists in the state of New York. She will plan, develop, and identify key accounts and areas of potential growth while recommending opportunities for both employees and member customers.

“I am looking forward to working alongside my technician teams and getting to know their customers while learning as much as I can to be a good support system for them both,” said Kristy.

Kristy attended Morrisville State College and earned an Associate’s Degree in Dairy Science and a Bachelor’s Degree in Agricultural Business. While finishing her Bachelor’s degree, she interned with Select Sire Power (which underwent a merger in 2019 to become Premier Select Sires). After her internship, Kristy went on to become an RSS with Select Sire Power/Premier Select Sires from May 2017 until August of 2019, serving herds in the Ithaca, NY area. After leaving her RSS role, Kristy worked as a Herdsperson on an elite dairy in Central New York, and she worked as a Research Technician at Cornell University.

“Kristy brings an extensive knowledge of the agricultural industry and has already been a great addition to our team in the Northern Region,” said Trever Babcock, Northern Regional Manager for Premier Select Sires. “I am very excited and thankful to have Kristy back under the Premier Select Sire’s umbrella.”

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

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

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

“NxGEN has been a very beneficial tool for our genetic program,” said Ryan Matheron, NxGEN member, Hilmar Holsteins, Hilmar, California. “The early access to the most elite genetics in the industry has allowed us to improve our herd’s genetic base.”

Each of the four additions is available with gender SELECTED^™ semen. To achieve a healthier, more efficient next generation, they qualify for the FeedPRO^® designation and boast more than +1,000 HHP$.

7HO16276 SHEEPSTER leads the lineup for HHP$ at +1,299. This 14HO15179 TROOPER son is one of the breed’s best sires for GTPI at +3162. He also transmits stellar NM$ at +1,188 and CM$ at +1,210.

With elite evaluations for Somatic Cell Score (SCS), Zoetis Mastitis and CDCB Mastitis, 7HO16396 FELIX qualifies for Select Sires’ innovative Mastitis ResistancePRO^® designation. This 7HO15394 DRIVE son offers A2A2 and BB caseins and ranks among the industry’s best for a variety of indexes. He’s also the daughter fertility superstar of the incoming class with a +1.6 Daughter Pregnancy Rate (DPR).

14HO16391 EASTON is another A2A2 and BB casein sire. He’s a truly balanced sire (+3101 GTPI, +1,090 HHP$, +1.99 UDC, +0.95 FLC) with an alternative sire stack (Outcome x Pursuit x Achiever).

14HO16011 VERSACHI leads the newcomers for NM$ at +1,191. Another unique pedigree, he is a 7HO15337 SUPERCHARGE x Acura x Achiever. VERSACHI ranks among the breed’s best sires for major indexes like CM$ (+1,201), HHP$ (+1,167) and GTPI (+3084).

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

^®TPI is a registered trademark of Holstein Association USA. Your Success Our Passion., NxGEN, Mastitis ResistantPRO and FeedPRO are registered trademarks of Select Sires Inc. ^TMgender SELECTED, Herd Health Profit Dollars and HHP$ are trademarks of Select Sires Inc.

All gender SELECTED semen is processed with Ultraplus™ technology. Ultraplus is a trademark of STGen LLC.

Source: 12/22 CDCB Genomic Evaluation/HA. Type Evaluation %Rel: SHEEPSTER NM$ 73; FELIX DPR 73; EASTON PTAT 78; VERSACHI NM$ 73.

7=Select Sires and 14=Accelerated Genetics

Premier Select Sires will award up to $20,000 to students within the Premier territory through the 2023 Premier Future Ag Leaders Scholarship Program. Two exemplary students will receive $2,500 scholarships through either the Johnny Daniel Memorial Scholarship or the Wayne Dudley Scholarship. Several other students will receive scholarships of $750-$1,000 in value.

Scholarship application forms will be available beginning November 14, 2022 under the “News” tab ofwww.premierselectsires.com, by calling (570) 836-3168, or by emailing office@premierselect.com. Completed scholarship applications are due January 31, 2023.

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

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

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

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

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

Effective January 1st, Paul Hunt will be the new CEO of URUS and will represent URUS in the PON group as Senior Vice President (SVP) Agricultural Products & Services. Together with Kevin Muxlow and Gregg Topoleski, he will form the new Executive Board of URUS.

Paul is replacing Cees Hartmans, who will retire after 23 successful years.

Paul has spent his entire career within URUS and its predecessors and has been crucial to the many changes URUS went through. As PEAK CEO, he led the growth of the most powerful bovine genetics provider in the world. As URUS COO, he has provided leadership and support to our companies and many aspects of URUS. We are proud to see Paul, together with Kevin and Gregg, lead URUS to new levels of success and achievements.

Cees Hartmans has put the customer in the center of all our companies. We all owe him for his achievements and his honest and open approach, creating a unique culture. His passion for our people, our clients and members, and the industry, has made the URUS group the global powerhouse it is today.

For more information, feel free to contact Cees Hartmans or Paul Hunt.

We are extremely excited to announce that LINDA NESS is joining Team Blondin!

Linda is a familiar face in the dairy industry and a welcome addition to the team. Formally with both Holstein Canada and Ayrshire Canada, Linda is well known to many breeders across Canada and around the world. She grew up in Howick, Quebec on her families Terrace Bank Farm.

With her extensive experience, Linda will work within both Ferme Blondin and Blondin Sires to provide support to all facets of our businesses, including managing our embryo inventory, event, sale and show planning, marketing the Blondin brand, and managing the inventories of our animals both females and sires, just to name a few.

Please join us in welcoming LINDA NESS to Team Blondin!

The Board of Directors for CentralStar Cooperative, serving dairy and beef producers in the upper Midwest, is awarding eight college and technical-school students with $1,000 scholarships to help pay for post-secondary education.

In addition to being children of cooperative member-stockowners, applicants were asked to summarize involvement and experiences that demonstrate their commitment to the agriculture industry. In addition, they answered five, short essays on various topics: agriculture-industry involvement, community volunteering, work experience, awards, and plans for the future.

“Our scholarship-selection team includes three board directors and one leadership-level employee team member,” commented Dori Lichty, CentralStar communication specialist. “Applicants must be pursuing agriculture majors, so the selection committee really enjoys reading about their industry knowledge and experiences; the hard part is picking winners out of the group.”

The following students will receive scholarship funds. Adam Baker, Clayton, Mich., son of Kim and Donna Baker, is attending Michigan State University, Lansing, Mich. Rick and Peggy Bangart’s daughter Emma Bangart, Stratford, Wis., is in college at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, River Falls, Wis. Rachel Durst is from Richland Center, Wis. Her parents are Loren and Julie Durst; she is attending University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Platteville, Wis. Austin Fahey, Edgar, Wis., is a student at Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton, Wis.; his parents are James and Tammy Fahey.

University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wis., student, Jenna Gries, Manitowoc, Wis., is on the scholarship-recipient list. Jenna’s parents are Greg Gries and Lori Edwards. Lora Korth, New London, Wis., child of Mike and Amy Korth, is attending the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Northcentral Technical College, Wausau, Wis., student, Mary Lewandowski, Hatley, Wis., is the daughter of Bill and Sandy Lewandowski. The final scholarship recipient is Kelsey Pasch, Weidman, Mich. Attending Michigan State University, Kelsey’s parents are Abe and Misty Pasch.

One of the eight CentralStar scholarships, this year, was awarded in honor of retiring board member, Steve Abel, Eden, Wis. He served on the former East Central/Select Sires and CentralStar Cooperative Boards of Directors for 18 years.

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

The August sire summaries resulted in new genetic leaders with a diversified offering at International Protein Sires (IPS). “Through the recent sire summaries, we are pleased to have new leaders in several sire groups. These new pacesetters offer dairy farmers the genetics to meet their specific demands. And they go well beyond our objective of “Breeding Cows, Not Numbers,” stated Ron Sersland, President, and CEO.

566HO1354 MAKE PEACE holds the IPS leadership ranks at +3013 GTPI. This outstanding sire is identified for high performance and conformation. MAKE PEACE is +1,325 lbs. milk, +96 lbs. (+.15%) fat, and +55 lbs. (+.05%) protein. In addition, MAKE PEACE is +1.48 type and +1.53 UDC. These attributes are complimented with 2.1% calving ease, +5.7 productive life, 2.69 somatic cell score, and +984 NM$. Sired by Fortnite, MAKE PEACE’s dam is a promising young Renegade daughter.

566HO1353 JUDO enters the IPS stables at +2926 GTPI. A high milk and components sire, JUDO is +1,371 lbs. milk, +104 lbs. (+.17%) fat, and +51 lbs. (+.03%) protein. JUDO is ranked in the Top 100 DWP$ genetic sires at $1181 DWP$. He also excels in health traits: +6.4 productive life and +1036 NM$. JUDO is superior for udder traits, including desirable teat placement and teat length. These qualities are enhanced by a strong conception rating and somatic cell score. A Conway son, JUDO is from a super high component Arrowhead daughter.

566HO1358 RIGHT ON-RED is a breed leader for Red Holsteins at +2712 GTPI. He is the only Red & White genomic sire with the superior combination of +1,249 lbs. milk and +2.41 type. Type traits are complimented by +1.98 UDC, and +1.15 FLC. RIGHT ON-RED also racks up high components; +68 lbs. (+.07%) fat and +43 lbs. (+.01%) protein. Additional ratings of +2.2 productive life and 1.6% calving ease solidifies RIGHT ON-RED as a breed leader. RIGHT ON-RED is sired by McDonald and from a young and developing Very Good-87 classified daughter of Altuve.

566HO1359 TELEMARK PP RC is the #1 homozygous polled and red carrier genomic bull at +2798 GTPI. A breed leader to boost components, TELEMARK PP RC is +78 lbs. (+.23%) fat and +43 lbs. (+.12%) protein. This A2A2 dehorning specialist also offers solid conformation; +1.24 type and +1.74 UDC. His positive linear traits for udder are off the charts. In addition, productive life ranks high at +4.3. TELEMARK PP RC is sired by Extra and from a promising young Presley daughter.

566HO1310 CONTRAIRE at +2737 GTPI, is a progeny proven sire. With added daughters, his milk and type ratings continue to elevate. A review shows +1,324 lbs. milk, +82 lbs. (+.11%) fat, and +54 lbs. (+.04%) protein. In addition, CONTRAIRE is +1.52 type and +1.39 UDC. Dairy farmers rave about their durability resulting from strength. Those robust qualities are complimented by his daughter’s high milk average; 32,617M, 1,324F, and 1,039P. A balanced breed improver, CONTRAIRE is sired by Hotline and from an Octoberfest daughter.

These quality genetic improvements diversify the IPS Holstein line up. They assure long lasting high performing dairy cattle for the most discerning dairy farmer. IPS semen is available in North America and around the world from company employees and independent distributors. Located in Rock Springs, Wisconsin, additional information is available through the IPS website, www.ipssires.com or by calling toll free: 1.800.542.7593

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

New additions 14HO16135 GAMECHANGER and 14HO16072 DETROIT are both 7HO15167 GAMEDAY sons with extreme HHP$, NM$, CM$ and GTPI. GAMECHANGER is A2A2 Beta-Casein, +1,212 HHP$, +1,208 NM$, +1,234 CM$ and positive for all fitness and fertility traits. DETROIT hails from a long line of Very Good and Excellent dams from Oakfield Corners Dairy and traces back to the famed Windsor-Manor Rud Zip (EX-95-4E-GMD-DOM). He is +3096 GTPI, +1,172 HHP$, +1,207 CM$ and positive for fertility traits.

7HO16097 OVER-THE-TOP (+1,147 PTAM, +0.24% PTAF, +0.06% PTAP) and 14HO15876 KELBY (+1,081 PTAM, +0.24% PTAF, +0.08% PTAP) are also new additions and transmit production power with high milk yield and positive component percents. Both sires are RobotPRO^® and FeedPRO^® designated. OVER-THE-TOP is BB Kappa-Casein and has a beautiful linear profile. KELBY has a unique sire stack of Rayshen x 7HO14231 BARCELONA x 7HO12788 FRAZZLED and he’s A2A2 Beta-Casein.

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

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

The farmer-owner board of directors, sire committees and sire department at Select Sires Inc. recognize the immense value of healthier, longer-living cows. Whether producers need to lower their herd turnover rate to account for reduced heifer inventories or are working to enhance sustainability initiatives, selecting genetics that excel for health and wellness traits will strengthen the dairy’s bottom line. Breeders can rely on the Select Sires, Accelerated Genetics and GenerVations sire lineups to provide elite, high-fertility genetics from the industry’s most coveted pedigrees. Ten Holsteins, two Jerseys, one Ayrshire and one Brown Swiss graduated to daughter-proven status and were added to these genetic lineups following the August sire summaries.  

Ten years ago Semex released the best brand for health selection in dairy cattle genetics and now, we’re releasing the next generation of Immunity+ with August genetic evaluations!

“We’ve taken Immunity and brought it to a whole new level, with a full proof and a unique approach, that makes it hands down the most effective means to make gains in animal health,” says Jay Shannon, Vice President Semex Solutions and Marketing.

Over the past 10 years dairymen worldwide have seen the real advantages of using Immunity+ sires. It is highly heritable, has a huge economic impact, provides for higher quality colostrum and daughters are shown to have 29% less disease.

Now, all Semex sires will receive an index for Immunity and Calf Immunity, making it even easier to make health selection. The ‘next generation’ of Immunity+ optimally combines Immune Response (Antibody Mediated Immune Response, Cell Mediated Immune Response and Nitric Oxide), as well as a composite of publicly available disease traits sourced from CDCB, Lactanet and Zoetis. This ensures resulting animals can both mount a strong overall immune response, but also be able to recognize the specific pathogens that cause the costliest diseases on dairies.

The index has a mean of 100, and a standard deviation of 5, with proofs generally ranging from 85-115. Immunity+ bulls will be designated as being superior transmitters of high immune response if they have an Immunity Index >= 105 and a Calf Immunity Index >= 100. Additionally, dairymen taking advantage of Semex’s Elevate® genomic testing program will receive two indexes on all tested females, Immunity Index and Calf Immunity Index. These replace the former H(high)-A(average)-L(low) letter codes that were published on tested females.

For additional information on Immunity+ and Semex please visit www.semex.com

Linear type traits play an important role in the genetic improvement of your herd. Bull proofs for these traits should therefore be considered during selection. To aid in the understanding of sire proofs for type traits and their relationship with the expected average daughter classification scores in first lactation, Lactanet created interpretation tables for all seven breeds. The updated tables for August 2022 tables can be found below.

Key Points to Remember:

• Genetic evaluations for type traits typically range from -15 to +15
• Type traits with an intermediate optimum are published with a letter code
• “Average for Proof=0” column is the calculated average linear score of daughters in first lactation for a sire with a proof of zero (the average bull for the breed)
• “Per 5-pt Proof Increase” column represents how much of an increase in daughter performance is expected on average when comparing daughters of two sires whose proofs differ by 5 points
• For traits with an actual measurement recorded during classification the interpretation in terms of the measure is below its linear trait and denoted by the units of measure following the trait name
• For proofs published with a letter code, a ‘proof increase’ is representative of movement in the direction of the descriptor of the higher linear score
• Knowledge of both where the breed population and the potential female mate stands is important for selecting the direction for selection for intermediate optimum traits and effectively using genetic evaluations for type traits in a breeding program
• Table values are averages and actual individual daughter scores in a herd may differ due many genetic and non-genetic factors

For more information on type trait evaluations and the interpretation tables, see our previous article “Interpreting Sire Proofs for Linear Type Traits.”

Troy Ramaker, New Holstein, Wis., has been hired as CentralStar Cooperative’s new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). Ramaker is responsible for forecasting and managing the cooperative’s financial position, as well as overseeing all finance and accounting operations, team members, and outside vendors. He is based in the multi-state cooperative’s Waupun, Wis., business office.

Ramaker has held various financial-leadership roles during his 26-year career, serving several companies in the CFO capacity. In recent years, he was CFO for GLC Minerals, LLC, Green Bay, Wis., a family-owned mineral-processing company, where he led a team that successfully implemented human-resources, information-technology, and financial policies and procedures. Prior to that, he was CFO and executive vice president for Eden Stone Company, Eden, Wis. With a strong record of leadership and achievement through strategy formulation, business counsel, and institution of effective management and financial controls, Ramaker brings value to CentralStar Cooperative in quality results and positive outcomes.

“Troy is the type of person who continually enjoys learning and improving his skills,” said Chief Executive Officer Phil Dieter. “We look forward to giving him that opportunity as a part of the CentralStar family, while working to make sure the cooperative continues in a profitable direction for the benefit of our employee-team members, customers, and member stockowners.”

Ramaker is replacing retiring CFO, Chad Rensi, following his more-than-18 years of service to the cooperative.

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

In a major breakthrough for stud cattle breeders, CQUniversity’s researchers can now automatically track and record critical production data for calving dates.

Traits that have the potential to play a large role in genetic improvement, like birth date, are often the most difficult and most labour intensive to obtain accurate records.

Many producers who operate more extensive production systems have a wide calving window, and it takes a lot of time to manually capture dates of birth, but this information is critical for participating in genetic performance recording programs like BREEDPLAN.

Which is why researchers at CQUniversity developed the DataMuster research tool, a software system which connects to paddock-based sensors to automatically capture and analyse phenotype information, saving producers time and money, and reducing stress on their herd.

“We have now developed an algorithm that can automatically identify a calving event,” CQU’s Prof. Dave Swain said. “The algorithm uses weight change to automatically identify a calving event and thereby provide more accurate life-time performance records for progeny growth rates as well as maternal calving intervals.”

The new date of calving algorithm was developed by CQUniversity’s Precision Livestock Management team as part of a five-year automated phenotyping research project funded by CQU and the Meat & Livestock Australia Donor Company.

The project has connected walk-over-weigh equipment on stud and commercial breeding properties across Queensland and the Northern Territory with CQU’s DataMuster software.

“Automated weight monitoring and analyses took the hard work out of capturing accurate and regular performance data for even the toughest of traits – a process which is normally a challenging and costly exercise for producers,” Prof. Swain said.

“Automated dates of birth provide the potential to deliver unprecedented data that can be used to improve fertility in extensive cattle operations.”

This system has the potential to be incorporated into genetic improvement programs like BREEDPLAN, providing the opportunity to more cost effectively assess genetic performance at an individual animal level but across larger groups.

“Making it easy for more producers to participate in genetic evaluation programs like BREEDPLAN will enhance the genetic improvement of the entire Australian beef herd,” Prof. Swain said.

More information is available at www.datamuster.net.au.

American Dairy Association North East dairy farmer board of directors, representing 9,000 northeast dairy farmers, is pleased to announce John Chrisman is the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the organization. As CEO, Chrisman will lead the organization to fulfill its mission to promote dairy and serve as the association’s key liaison with industry and government leaders.

Prior to being named CEO, Chrisman held senior leadership positions in retail marketing, producer relations, school marketing, processor relations, and hunger relief. His passion for the dairy industry extends beyond the job. He believes the relationships he developed within agriculture and associated industries over the past 21 years shaped him into the person he is today.

“Over the years, I have performed a wide range of functions, which allowed me to work one-on-one with dairy farmers as well as consumers. I believe my experience and insight will be key to elevating our programs in retail, schools, broadcast media, and digital marketing to meet demand of consumers,” says Chrisman.

“With more than two decades of experience leading multiple departments in dairy promotion, John is perfectly suited for this new challenge,” says ADANE Board President Audrey Donahoe. “We are thrilled to have someone with such knowledge and commitment to dairy farmers lead our organization into the future.”

Chrisman says he is humbled to be selected by dairy farmers for the role. “There are no better or harder working people than the dairy farmers who I will represent. I am both honored and privileged to have been chosen and trusted to lead the organization on their behalf.”

Chrisman joined dairy promotion in 2001 with American Dairy Association Mideast in Ohio and continued his career with Mid-Atlantic Dairy Association and Pennsylvania Dairy Promotion Program based in Philadelphia. These two groups merged with American Dairy Association & Dairy Council in Syracuse, New York, in 2016 to become American Dairy Association North East.

Chrisman holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Robert Morris University, Pittsburgh, Pa. He will start in his new position as Chief Executive Officer of ADANE on June 2, 2022. Chrisman succeeds Rick Naczi who is retiring after 32 years of leading the regional dairy checkoff promotion group.

Yager was named the 2021 CowManager^® Specialist of the Year and led all CowManager specialists in system and sensor sales in 2020. Yager thrives by supporting his customers’ goals and helping them achieve increased efficiency, productivity and profitability. He is also well-versed in beef production and has become an asset to his customers engaged in the beef x dairy market. Along with his CowManager support role, he is also the recruiting and training manager for CentralStar Cooperative.

Klevgard was awarded the CowManager Specialist of the Year honor for 2022. For 21 years, Klevgard has worked alongside dairy farmers to help improve their operations. He led sales for systems and sensors in 2021 while meeting the needs of customers in northwest Wisconsin. Installation of CowManager systems in his territory has helped farmers with labor challenges, improved herd health and increased reproductive efficiencies. In addition to his work with CowManager, Klevgard is an effective team leader and is known for encouraging individual talents to garner the best results for his team and his customers.

^®Your Success Our Passion. is a registered trademark of Select Sires Inc. CowManager is a registered trademark of Agis Automatisering. 

Kelroy was named the 2021 Genetic Consultant of the Year. As a 10-year employee of CentralStar Cooperative, his role has evolved to meet the needs of customers and keep the pace of the dairy industry. Kelroy is known for his superb data analysis skills, and he has been instrumental in assisting the Select Sires federation to promote programs and services like NxGEN^®, ProfitSOURCE^® and CowManager^®. He plays a key role during each sire summary by leading virtual sire updates and assisting herds with their genetic and reproductive strategies. In cooperation with World Wide Sires, Kelroy serves the global market by organizing tours for international guests throughout Wisconsin. He also contributes to his local, state and national dairy community by helping facilitate Dairy Challenge, participating on various dairy committees, and serving as a UW-Madison collegiate judging coach.

Martin was honored as the Genetic Consultant of the Year for 2022. Since joining the team in 2018, she has gone above and beyond to serve her customers and excel their herds to greater success. Martin is known to question the status quo by encouraging herds to consider alternative indexes and genetic selection strategies or approach reproductive performance with different protocols. She is a champion for the NxGEN program and sharing the genetic value of the sire lineup with her customers. Martin was also an early pioneer for Select Sires’ ProfitSOURCE program and continues to work closely with herds utilizing TD Beef and HerdFlex^® marketing programs. Her colleagues describe her as an excellent team player, an intelligent source for new information and an advocate for her customers.   

^®Your Success Our Passion., Select Mating Service, SMS, NxGEN and ProfitSOURCE are registered trademarks of Select Sires Inc. CowManager is a registered trademark of Agis Automatisering. HerdFlex is a registered trademark of the J.R. Simplot Company. 

“It’s always an honor when breeders around the world use genetics that originate from our herd,” said Jonathan Lamb. “In the era of genomics, when no one thought a bull would reach millionaire status, DRAGONHEART has achieved that coveted milestone.”

DRAGONHEART hails from a world-renowned maternal line. He was an early 250HO1002 EPIC son from OCD Planet Danica (EX-93-EX-MS-GMD-DOM) and his fourth dam was the popular Windsor-Manor Rud Zip (EX-95-4E-GMD-DOM). Alicia Lamb describes his maternal line as having strong udders, sound feet and legs and the temperament and production that work very well in their commercial facility.

“DRAGONHEART’s consistent performance, high milk production, outstanding udders, favorable calving ease and elite semen fertility carried him to this extreme sales success,” said Rick VerBeek, senior sire analyst. “Achieving one million units in sales solidifies DRAGONHEART’s status as a true customer-satisfaction sire and we look forward to watching him continue to climb the sales ladder.”

COBA/Select Sires welcomes four interns to the team for the summer of 2022. Rachael Billups, an incoming senior at The Ohio State University, joins as the Communications/Marketing Intern.  Cole Pond, an incoming sophomore at The Ohio State University, Mecaylah Hesse, a recent graduate of the University of Findlay, and Cole Harhager, a student at The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute (ATI), are Reproductive Services Client Manager (RSCM) Interns.

Billups majors in agricultural communication with a minor in agribusiness. Her time in FFA, specifically participating in dairy judging contests, directed her path to COBA/Select Sires. Billups will work on organizing and distributing the route mailings each week for the District Sales Managers. Other tasks include newsletter writing, designing ads, posters, route stuffers, social media graphics and other marketing-related tasks.

Pond is studying agribusiness and applied economics and comes with experience on his family’s Holstein operation in Woodstock, Ohio. Hesse is studying animal science industry and worked as a farm hand on two dairy farms, as well as a hog operation. Harhager is working to obtain a degree in beef livestock production and management and has experience as a farm hand for the ATI beef and swine facilities as well as a separate cow/calf operation. These three will provide relief to the full-time RSCMs by traveling to a number of diverse operations and managing their client base. They will utilize and expand their marketing and technical skills by selling products and providing artificial insemination services for customers. These interns will have the opportunity to learn how to analyze the reproductive performance of a herd and give clients the best suggestions for improving herd reproductive efficiency.

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

The CentralStar Cooperative is offering seven $1,000 scholarships this year to both current college students and those graduating from high school.

Applicants must be presently enrolled in a four-year college or a one- or two-year technical college or short-course program in an agricultural-related field. Others can be a high school senior admitted into one of the programs.

The students or their parents must be currently purchasing semen and/or farm products from East Central/Select Sires or NorthStar Cooperative, which recently merged.

The deadline to apply is June 1. Winners will receive notification later this summer.

For more information, go to: www.mycentralstar.com

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

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

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

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

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

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