Accelerated Genetics August 2014 Genetic Trends

AUGUST 2014

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF ACCELERATED GENETICS

OUR VISION

TO BE THE PRODUCER’S TRUSTED FIRST CHOICE Sexed Semen Advantage

Genomic Testing

The Jersey Source

Colostrum Basics

See our AccelCoat promotion on the back cover!

The Official Publication of Accelerated Genetics August 2014 Vol. 66 No. 2 EDITOR Kate Welter ADMINISTRATIVE HEADQUARTERS E10890 Penny Lane Baraboo, WI 53913 Phone: 1-800-451-9275 or 608-356-8357 Fax: 608-356-4387 Email: info@accelgen.com Website: www.accelgen.com

ON THE COVER Dairy farming takes commitment.

At Accelerated Genetics, we’re committed to the genetics and animal health products we provide.

We have everything you need to succeed and the services to back it up. Find out how you can focus on the things that matter on page 4.

FEATURES 4 THINGS THAT MATTER

by: Ethan Giebel 12 THE JERSEY SOURCE

by: Kari Stanek 14 DON’T LET COLOSTRUM BASICS FALL THROUGH THE CRACKS

by: David Cook, PhD.

QR CODES - WHAT ARE THESE?

QR Codes can be scanned with any free downloaded barcode scanner on your smart phone or tablet and it will directly link you to a website.

Visit www.accelgen.com today!

Genetic Trends is published by: Accelerated Genetics E10890 Penny Lane Baraboo, WI 53913 Postmaster Send Address Changes to: Genetic Trends, E10890 Penny Lane, Baraboo, WI 53913 If you are receiving multiple copies of Genetic Trends, are no longer in need of this publication or it is being sent to an incorrect address, please call us at 1-800-451-9275, ext. 5466, or cut out your mailing label and return it with a note of intent to the above address.

BIG ENOUGH TO SERVE YOU...

MESSAGE FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

SMALL ENOUGH TO KNOW YOU

As my term as the Board Chair for Accelerated Genetics winds down, it is natural for my thoughts to turn to where we have been as a company during the last twelve years.

I first became a member of Accelerated Genetics nearly 30 years ago when my family farm, Sunburst Dairy, joined the cooperative. We currently breed 100% of our herd to Accelerated Genetics sires and utilize the PACE and GEM programs.

When I became a member, I did not know where this organization would take me.

Needless to say, my experience has been wonderful.

In 1996, my wife Yogi, and I joined the Producer Program committee, which is a program designed to develop future cooperative leaders. If you’re a producer of any age, I strongly encourage you to learn more about this program. In 2000, I became a delegate. In 2001, I became a board member and in 2008, I was nominated to be Board Chair.

In my current role as Board Chair, my experience and management skills provide a great foundation for the board to challenge the Accelerated Genetics management team in developing innovative products, research and service to be

positioned for future market trends and evolutions.

The board and its committees, along with Accelerated Genetics staff, have seen a lot of changes since my tenure as Board Chair, with budgeting, planning, new construction, working on developing strategies, and striving to be the producer’s trusted first choice.

Here are some of my highlights that I will remember the most as Board member: I was a new board member when Accelerated Genetics purchased 50% of World Wide Sires, Inc., which is one of the world’s leading cattle genetics marketing organizations.

We built numerous buildings at our production and distribution center in Westby, Wisc., to continue to maintain bull comfort and meet European Union standards.

We acquired Nebraska Bull Service, located in McCook, Neb., which is a premier custom collection facility in the United States.

A huge thank you goes to everyone that has made my tenure with Accelerated Genetics an extraordinary experience. Thank you to the

customers who have utilized all the great products and services that the company has to offer.

A special thank you goes to the members that elected me as a delegate. I also thank the delegates that elected me as a director to represent our section, and to the board for electing me as chair.

Additionally, I thank the employees that passionately do their work for our cooperative, it doesn’t go unnoticed.

Also, I must thank the President and CEOs that I worked with, Roger Ripley and Joel Groskreutz, for giving me the rewarding opportunity to represent Accelerated Genetics proudly!

Being on the board at Accelerated Genetics for the past twelve years has been rewarding. Even though my board term may be coming to an end, I will still be involved with Accelerated Genetics.

At Sunburst Dairy, we enjoy educating and promoting agriculture, not only locally, but all over the world. As I reflect on my tenure, I will continue to find personal and professional inspiration in the employees and members that make Accelerated Genetics the producer’s trusted first choice.

SAVE THE DATE! THE 3RD ANNUAL COOPERATIVE INITIATIVE JANUARY 20-21, 2015 THREE BEARS LODGE, WARRENS, WI

BRIAN BROWN Board Chair

Scan this QR code and see a glimpse of this past year’s Cooperative Initiative.

THINGS THAT MATTER

Focused on the th Story by: Ethan Giebel – Marketing Communications Intern

Partner with us, so you can have more

Have you taken time recently to reflect on the things that matter to you and your farming operation? Perhaps what matters on your farm is maintaining healthier calves, enhancing the genetic value of your herd or receiving top-notch service from professionals in the field. Whatever matters the most to you, our team at Accelerated Genetics is prepared to serve you so that you can focus on the things that matter.

Dick Snider operates a 90-cow dairy with his wife, Lois, and their son, Rob, in Mansfield, Ohio. Winter across the United States this past year was one of the most extreme in recent memory; conditions in Ohio were no exception. During this time, Snider experienced issues with calf health and performance. After turning to their local Accelerated Genetics representative, a solution was devised. Tri-Start Jr. and Tri-Purify boluses are now a regular part of the calf rearing protocol at Snider Farms.

“Tri-Purify is an amazing product,” said Snider. “I would recommend its use along with Tri-Start Jr. to every beef and dairy producer. Each calf is valuable; those heifer calves are the future of your herd. I have seen the difference it can make, this regiment helps raise stronger and healthier calves.”

Not only has Snider been impressed with the Animal Health Products provided

by Accelerated Genetics, he is satisfied with the customer service he has received.

“The people I have worked with have our best interests in mind,” said Snider.

“They care about your success and want you to be in business for the long haul.

Accelerated Genetics is deeply rooted in customer care, companies like that are hard to find today.”

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Accelerated Genetics is deeply rooted in customer care, companies like that are hard to find today.”

Joey Fernandes of Tulare, California operates three dairies milking a total of 2,200 cows. As a purchaser of both Holstein and Jersey genetics, Fernandes is looking to increase the genetic value in his herds. “As I grow my dairy, I am looking for more Jersey genetics,” said Fernandes. “It is exciting to see more new young sires coming out and an emphasis being placed on expanding the Jersey lineup. I’m als impressed with the sire analysts at Accelerated Genetics as they continue to bring in bulls from herds they haven’t traditionally worked with. Variety is important t me, more bulls will help provide more genetics for my dairy.”

Along with seeking out top-tier genetics, Fernandes is looking to start using genomic testing on his heifers in order to increase the herd’s genetic potential. “I am currently looking into options for genomic testing of heifers,” said Fernandes “AMP Genetics from Accelerated Genetics could be the solution I am looking for as it would provide me with value of each heifer. With high feed costs and a fluctuating milk market, determining the profitability of individual heifers early on will be an excellent management tool. “ 4 > GENETIC TRENDS > AUGUST 2014

hings that matter

time to spend on the things that matter.

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AMP Genetics from Accelerated Genetics could be the solution I am looking for as it would provide me with value of each heifer.”

“The relationship I have with my sales representative, Benny Cotta, has been valuable to me,” said Fernandes. “He has a good eye for cows and isn’t pushy.

Not only does he know what I am looking for, he shares information and is competitively priced. His strength is his reputation and knowledge of good cows and genetics.”

Mike Taubenheim of Amherst, Nebraska, is a farmer and rancher who relies on the Accelerated Genetics lineup of elite beef bulls on his families 600-cow herd.

Taubenheim Farms hosts an annual bull sale in the spring where they market about 100 herd bulls. The future of the beef industry matters to Taubenheim and his family as they select for traits that will produce long lasting, productive cattle. “We need to stay focused on producing cattle that are structurally sound,” said Taubenheim. “I believe Accelerated Genetics has done a good job of finding bulls who produce offspring with sound structure. I have been impressed with the quality of calves we have had while using their bulls.”

Customer service is another important part of doing business that Taubenheim cares about. “When you have someone who takes care of you, you tend to stick with them,” said Taubenheim. “My sales representative has been good to me and the people who work with the Accelerated Genetics beef bulls at Nebraska Bull Service truly care about the animals they are working with. At Nebraksa Bull Service, they treat the bulls like they are their own.”

At Accelerated Genetics, our vision is to be the producer’s trusted first choice. As a cooperative, we continue to grow with our customers and are more committed than ever to being your trusted first choice. Whether you are a dairy or beef producer, you can rely on Accelerated Genetics to be your partner in providing the highest caliber genetics and animal health products on the market today. Using quality products on your operation translates into having more time for the things that matter in your life. Partner with Accelerated Genetics so that you can focus on the things that matter.

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THE ACCESS® ADVANTAGE: HOW SEXED SEMEN CAN INCREASE YOUR BOTTOM LINE Story by: Ethan Giebel – Marketing Communications Intern

ACCESS® is sexed semen, available from Accelerated Genetics, that can help you get more heifer calves.

Dairy farmers are entrepreneurs and continually find ways to put extra dollars in their pocket while diversifying their operation. Using ACCESS sexed semen can fit a variety of needs on your dairy farm. It is available in both dairy and beef cattle, including many top genetic sires.

Genetic Advancement

Adding Value

Genomic testing of all heifers is a tool Daley uses to determine the genetic value of individuals in the herd. The top third of virgin heifers are inseminated using ACCESS sexed semen. In the process of choosing sires, Daley focuses on Milk and Productive Life traits to increase his bottom line.

ACCESS Grows Herds

Use of ACCESS sexed semen is compatible with the reproductive plan at Daley Farms of Lewiston LLP in Lewiston, Minn. “Sexed semen usage has been a fairly recent move for the herd,” said Ben Daley, owner/operator.

“Prior to the decision to use sexed semen, we had been looking at ways to increase the genetic potential of our 1,500 cow dairy herd. ACCESS seems to be the right fit for us.”

“

Accelerated Genetics has been our first choice because of the quality service we receive.”

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Not only does Daley employ ACCESS as a way to increase the genetic value of his herd, he also uses it as a way to add value to his calf crop.

“Sexed beef semen is being used on the lowest 10% of cows in the dairy herd,” said Daley. By embracing sexed beef semen, Daley expects to see higher returns on the beef cross calves he markets while preventing animals with lower genetic values from staying in the herd.

“Accelerated Genetics has been our first choice because of the quality service we receive,” said Daley. “The traits their sires carry are valuable to our dairy herd.”

Over the past five years, Grandview Farms in Dundas, Wis., has seen many changes. “About 550 cows were being milked here five years ago when we started using sexed semen,” said Bruce Schmidt, owner/operator. “My experience with ACCESS began because of our herd expansion plans.

When we decided to build, we wanted to reduce the number of cows we had to purchase and grow from within.”

“Although it is recommended that sexed semen be used solely on virgin heifers, we have been using it successfully on our cows as well,” said Schmidt. “We breed all of our virgin heifers with it and like to see all of the milk cows bred with sexed semen on their first service. If you are breeding cows with sexed semen, I can’t emphasize enough that they need to be in a good heat.”

Got Jerseys?

While many cows did have to be purchased when the farm expanded to 1,200 cows, replacement heifers played a key role in the transition process. “Some of the cattle that were purchased and brought onto the farm didn’t adjust well to a new environment,” said Schmidt. “With the growing number of heifers we have been raising on the farm through the use of sexed semen, some consistency has been maintained through our expansion. For those heifers, it is a seamless transition because they don’t know any other environment.”

Crunch the Numbers

Schmidt has seen the use of ACCESS as advantageous not only from a replacement heifer standpoint but also because of the improved traits carried by the latest generation of cows. “Some of the benefits I have seen from using sexed semen relate to the improved genetics in the herd,” said Schmidt. “Our fat and protein component levels have increased dramatically and the somatic cell count has been decreased.The employees at Accelerated Genetics and service I have received from them are why I continue to be a customer,” said Schmidt.

Growing the cow numbers in your herd is just one more option that ACCESS sexed semen can provide. If expanding is not on the horizon, dairy heifer sales can be another profitable venture for farmers looking for ways to diversify, especially during periods of time when dairy markets are favorably positioned.

“Jersey cattle are in high demand,” said Joe Stanek, Accelerated Genetics Sire Analyst. “We are seeing increasing Jersey sexed semen usage in areas where the breed is growing. The good news for those Jersey producers looking to grow is that we offer an increasing number and variety of Jersey sires in ACCESS sexed semen, including our best bulls.”

The value of incorporating sexed semen into your reproductive plan varies by dairy breed, future goals and current market conditions. Using a free web based tool from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, producers can calculate an up to date value of using sexed semen as part of their reproductive program. The tool allows for the comparison of values between various levels of sexed semen usage in a reproductive program and a conventional semen reproductive program for dairy heifers. By using your web browser, the program can be reached at www.uwex.edu/ ces/dairymgt/ under the section “Management Tools” and title “Economic Value of Sexed Semen Programs.”

With a variety of avenues to include sexed semen in your herd’s reproductive plan, ACCESS can diversify your dairy operation while putting more dollars in your pocket. Be sure to ask your Accelerated Genetics representative about how ACCESS can improve your bottom line.

Scan this QR code and learn more about The Access® Advantage.

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BACK TO

BASICS Dairy farming takes commitment. At Accelerated Genetics, we’re committed to the genetics and animal health products we provide. We have everything you need to meet your goals. Let us help you get back to the basics so you can spend more time on the things that matter.

CONSULT

SEARCH Accelerated Genetics has the best website in the industry.

Our website gives you access to all of the sire data and information - industry wide!

We also have top-notch experts that work for our company that you can trust with your operation’s needs.

Visit www.accelgen.com today! Or visit m.accelgen.com on your smartphone or tablet!

Rely on Accelerated Genetics to SEARCH for the right genetics and animal health products.

PLAN

Our experienced professionals can provide you on-farm training of herdspersons or employees covering:

Every operation needs a good plan to meet goals. Accelerated Genetics is here to help you implement the plan that works best for you. We have experts available internally, externally, and world-wide.

• • • • •

We work in a team atmosphere, and not only develop a plan with you, but we work with your veterinarian, nutritionist and other team members as well.

Artificial Insemination Heat Detection Tail Chalk Management Systems Repro Analysis Genetic Analysis

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You, the producer, are in charge and Accelerated Genetics can be part of that PLAN!

CHOOSE

You can trust in Accelerated Genetics that we have the best programs available to assist in your herd’s goals.

• GEM (Genetic Evaluation and Mating) Program allows you to create a personalized sire selection index that picks the ideal bull for each producer’s particular breeding program.

• IMAGE (Inbreeding Management and Genetic Excellence) is a population mating tool to identify bulls which are safe to use across a group of cattle at random while eliminating inbreeding worries. Farmers can be confident in achieving steady genetic progress through selecting strong sire candidates.

• AMP Genetics is a genomic testing service that will allow you to get a complete genetic analysis along with a trained genetic consultant to support your genetic goals.

• ReproConnections® can provide you or your employees with the knowledge and training skills needed to manage your breeding program efficiently.

You get to CHOOSE the programs you need for your operation!

HEALTH

Animal Health Products are a valuable asset for every farm. Accelerated Genetics has a variety of Animal Health Products that will maximize your production, reproduction and health of all your dairy and beef cattle.

• • • • • •

Calf Management Nutrition Breeding Supplies Udder Health Dewormers Bio-Hygienization

VISION To be the producers trusted first choice.

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Genomic Testing

AMP GENETICS

females through an in-house lab to consulting for application of results. Customers can trust Accelerated Genetics and take the next step in genetic progress. Let us help you analyze valuable data to make marketing and breeding decisions for herd future and potential success.

AMP Genetics uses an in-house lab, Genetic Visions, Inc., which is a leading company in the genomic testing industry. Genetics Visions. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Accelerated Genetics that is dedicated to genetic research and improvement. In collaboration with Genetic Visions, Accelerated Genetics is proud to provide much more than the everyday genomic testing service found in the industry. AMP Genetics is an innovative service and value added program we are excited to introduce to producers worldwide.

The goal of AMP Genetics is to increase customer profitability, utilize on farm genomic applications to create success, and develop a strategic breeding program. AMP Genetics will make your life in a world of technology easier and your herd more profitable.

AMP Genetics is the most complete genomic testing service in the industry.

At Accelerated Genetics we realize the value of your herd’s genetics and its important impact on making financially sound management decisions.

AMP Genetics allows producers to analyze valuable data to make marketing and breeding decisions for their herd’s future and potential success.

In addition to replacement heifer management such as culling, purchasing and breeding decisions, other on-farm applications include parentage identification, replacement management, and increased mating reliability. Currently, the United States average for sire mis-identification is 15%*. In 2013, more than 50,000 missing or incorrect sires were discovered and reported to breeders**. This provides many threats to our industry for inbreeding, recessives genes and haplotypes; all of which can affect fertility, health and production. With AMP Genetics, the producer can see these threats, become aware, and take action as needed. It can also identify your elite heifers and ensure investment in another generation of profitable replacement heifers through the use of ACCESS sexed semen.

The industry has spoken – there is a need for improved support on managing genomic data and utilizing the results for improved profitability within a herd. AMP Genetics is our way of giving back to producer’s everywhere who have voiced the same opinions on the way their genomic testing is completed.

Through female genomic testing, you would be able to predict what your next generation of two year olds being milked will be like and have more control over the generation. Based on the qualities and traits that you desire, AMP Genetics will help determine the genetic potential for the entire herd.

AMP Genetics is the industry’s only full service genomic testing program – from actually testing

AMP Genetics will increase mating reliability.

With genetics, there is no such thing as a perfect

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cow or bull with perfect genetics. Every animal carries desirable and undesirable traits. We hope only the best genetics will be passed down from generation to generation, but genetics truly is a gamble and this makes parent averages a gamble too. With genomic testing, we are one step closer to figuring out what it takes to make your “perfect” cow or bull. That is one of the benefits we see coming from genomics.

With AMP Genetics, we provide an online login to access a database of your females on the industry’s leading website, www.accelgen.com. Results are simple to manage with unlimited access for evaluation. Results can be easily downloaded as spreadsheets and imported into herd management software or the GEM (Genetic Evaluation and Mating) program.

Results are loaded for your access automatically upon the release of genomic data every month.

Enjoy the convenience of accessing information immediately – no more waiting for emails!

Accelerated Genetics doesn’t just provide the genomic testing lab and data management with AMP Genetics, but we also have a globally respected mating program, GEM, and highly trained regional genetic consultants to work with you on using the information.

Technology use in the dairy industry is on the rise.

AMP Genetics is innovative solution to assisting producers in using technology. We are confident our AMP Genetics program will help progressive herds continue to advance at an even faster rate of speed. It will help identify high and low profit cows. Female genomic testing will predict production, health, longevity, and appearance.

At Accelerated Genetics, we are striving to be able to make the producer’s life less stressful so you can focus in on the things that matter. With AMP Genetics, we are better able to help producers increase their profitability and understand the genetic potential in their animals. With AMP Genetics, this is just one more additional service in fulfilling Accelerated Genetics’ vision – to be the producer’s trusted first choice.

Scan this QR code and learn more about AMP Genetics. *DeVries, A; Economic Impact of Genomics on Dairy Farms; Proceedings of the Advancing Dairy Cattle Genetics: Genomics and Beyond; 2014 ** VanRaden, A; Impact of Genomics on Genetic Improvement; Proceedings of the Advancing Dairy Cattle Genetics: Genomics and Beyond; 2014.

AIRLIFT IS LIFTING TO THE TOP OF THE LIST

Story by: Casandra Krull – Marketing Communications Intern

Looking for the next bull that can do it all for your herd? One bull that has come to the top for having breed leading type, exceptional feet and leg composite and still can maintain top notch milk production is 014HO06809 Canyon-Breeze At Airlift-ET. This bull was sourced from CanyonBreeze Holsteins in Minersville, Utah.

Airlift’s dam, Canyon-Breeze S Auburn-ET, caught the eye of an Accelerated Genetics sire analyst because of her outstanding combination of type and production.

Ryan Weigel, Accelerated Genetics Sire Analyst shares, “ We are seeing many daughters doing well in shows across all of Accelerated Genetics markets. Success with his offspring has led many happy customers back for more and Airlift will continue to be a sire of choice.”

Auburn comes from the unique Clarney W C Mark Abigail cow family that dominates Canyon-Breeze Holsteins. The “A” family, as they are known, is one of the most consistent cow families for type, but they also have the added bonus to have solid production with it and Airlift is a prime example of the cow family’s capabilities. Adding to this, Canyon-Breeze cattle have performed well in other herds and this just adds to breeder satisfaction, plus creates more excitement to use Airlift in breeding programs worldwide.

“The Airlift daughters are easy too pick out in the heifer pens and in the show ring. Besides having lots of style and balance, they are typically the biggest for their age. They Airlift daughters have stylish frames and flat, square rump structures. They also handle their legs extremely well. They track straight and have an extremely steep foot angle. Airlift daughters have a deep, open rib structure and are sharp over the shoulder,” says Accelerated Genetics Genetic Service Coordinator Ben Sarbacker.

When Airlift, arrived at Accelerated Genetics, he was not only physically appealing, but quite impressive genomically as well and he has been a top seller for Accelerated Genetics since his release as a GeneFORCE sire.

As Accelerated Genetics employees are hearing back from breeders about Airlift’s progeny, it is re-assuring to hear that he is giving them everything they want in a sire.

Today, Airlift continues to develop quality semen that is highly marketable around the globe.

We continue to hear success stories how Airlist is creating show-winning daughters.

For Airlift this is only the start. His final chapters will be written in the future as his daughters are just now at breeding age. If you are looking for breed leading type, elite style with great feet and legs, and milk to top it off look at Airlift. Contact your Accelerated Genetics Representative today to learn more about Airlift!

Be sure to keep your eyes open for the Airlift calves at shows near you and see for yourself if he has potential to be used in your herd. The prospect for Airlift continues to rise to the top.

R-Vision Airlift Cheeze-It Rachel Coyne, Spring Valley, WI

Airlift, continues to be one of the top type bulls in the breed and is one of the few that transmits over +1000 PTAM. While he stays on the top of the type lists it is truly remarkable considering the rapid progression of top genomic young sires.

Ms KHF Airlift Amber #1 Genomic PTAT 4/14, Kenyon Hill Farm & Higher-Ransom

Sunkist Airlift Arrow H.M. Jr. All-MN Winter Calf, John Donnay, Glencoe, MN

Scan this QR code and learn more about 014HO06809Airlift.

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ACCELERATED GENETICS IS

THE JERSEY SOURCE Story by: Kari Stanek - Industry Relations Coordinator

When looking for Jersey sires, Accelerated Genetics is the SOURCE, we have the depth and variety of sires you need to succeed, plus the programs and service to back it up.

Three new proven sires were added to the lineup following the August Sire Summary: 014JE00566 Dalton-P – a polled bull, 014JE00560 Dandee – a milk and component specialist, and 014JE00563 Hype – a health trait and JUI leader.

Don’t forget about proven sire 014JE00533 Vito, he continues as the breed leader for milk and protein! And he is available in ACCESS sexed semen.

The American Jersey Cattle Association Board of Directors recommends Jersey breeders to breed 85% of their herd to genomic sires. For these sires look to Accelerated Genetics GeneFORCE sires, no one in the industry can match this lineup!

Leading off the newly released GeneFORCE sires is 014JE00682 Primero – the highest bull available for type (+2.9 PTAT) and udders (+9.26 JUI).

Plus, he is a direct maternal descendant of the very first registered Jersey cow on the Island of Jersey. 014JE00668 Piero is an elite sire for Cheese and Net Merit dollars (+744 CM$, +653 NM$) and is extreme for all health traits.

Looking for a sire with high production, components, JPI and outcross, look no further than 014JE00648 Leonel. He is +2037 PTAM (just behind Vito), +74 PTAF, +65 PTAP, 3.0% GFI, and +258 GJPI. 014JE00665 Holger is an extreme outcross sires. His pedigree is pure Danish with national show awards as well. Plus, Holger ranks high for Cheese Merit (+634 CM$) with positive percent fat and protein. He is also a health trait leader, especially DPR, HCR and CCR. Whatever your breeding goals, Accelerated Genetics is The Jersey Source!

We have the sires that will impact your herd.

Rely on us to be your trusted source for Jersey genetics! Contact one of our dedicated sales representatives today, as Accelerated Genetics is prepared to serve you so that you can focus on the things that matter.

FIVE MINUTES WITH DAIRY FARMER, JIM ENGEL OF WAKKER DAIRY WAKKER DAIRY STATISTICS: Operations Managers: Jim & Jessica Engel Owner: Johannes Wakker (Jessica’s father) Location: Kewaunee, Wi Number of cows: 2,000 cows 97% Registered (28% Jersey, 22% Holstein, 49% Crossbred)

WHY DO YOU RELY ON ACCELERATED GENETICS?

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE THE JERSEY BREED?

We began breeding our entire herd to Jersey sires in June 2010. We went Jerseys because our milk marketing plant pays on pounds of components. This is where Jerseys make sense to milk because they are efficient producers of components. Plus, Jerseys eat less feed (use 32% less water), make less manure, requiring 11% less land – land is a premium where we live, and Jersey have a 20% lower carbon footprint.

WHAT ARE YOUR HERD’S GOALS?

Basically we are interested in sires with high pounds of milk while also having high pounds of fat and protein. I use my own custom index, which is kind of a hybrid of JPI and Cheese Merit. In the future we would like to open our own cheese plant on the farm, so, again, it’s important for our herd to be efficient producers of cheese.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS FOR YOUR FARM?

Next year, we are planning to build another 1,000-cow barn, which we would like to grow internally within the next 18 months to 3200 cows.

In the future, we also plan to build a calf barn and a genetic barn for my high genomic and show animals.

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We began working closely with Accelerated Genetics in the Spring of 2012. Our old AI technician left, and Josh Otte, Accelerated Genetics Repro Services Technician, was breeding my heifers and I liked him. Plus, I was working with Joe Stanek, Jersey Sire Analyst, and he was getting bulls that I was interested in. In the end, it was the combination of working with a good technician in Josh and the strength I saw in Accelerated Genetics’ Jersey lineup.

WHAT SIRES ARE YOU USING IN YOUR GENETIC LINEUP?

We are now using 95% Accelerated Genetics sires on our cows. My favorite sires that I am breeding with right now are: 014JE00600 Wildfire, 014JE00661 Snapdragon, 014JE00652 Marlo, 014JE00663 Gary, and 014JE00648 Leonel. Choosing bulls for a herd my size is not hard with Accelerated Genetics. They have the source of Jersey genetics that I need.

WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT THE SERVICE FROM ACCELERATED GENETICS?

I like all of the reps that I work with from Accelerated Genetics, they are very friendly and helpful. Josh is here every day breeding cows.

He is a great AI technician, he gets things done, plus he helps me out when I am gone to meetings or traveling. Anthony Fischer, District Sales Representative, keeps my semen tank full of good semen. Dave Calvert, Regional Sales Manager visits regularly to ensure things are going well with my herd, and Joe keeps me updated and on top of what is going on in the industry.

GET THE RED Story by: Ethan Giebel – Marketing Communications Intern

Accelerated Genetics has a complete lineup of red sires available to meet your breeding goals.

014HO07485 ALL DAY*RC comes to Accelerated Genetics from Kenmore Farms in Downing, Wis. He is a Day son from a very deep maternal line. His dam is a Snowman daughter that scored VG-85 during her first lactation. The next dam is a VG-88 Shottle daughter and then an Excellent Goldwyn backed by the famous Deutante Rae, the EX-94 Durham daughter that was Reserve Grand Champion at the 2005 World Dairy Expo.

As one of the highest Red Carrier sires available, ALL DAY*RC is certainly unique. He is +2327 GTPI and nearly +739 NM$. At +69 PTAF and +49 PTAP, he is a high production sire. ALL DAY*RC carries the type from his maternal line, as he is +2.68 PTAT and nearly +2.5 for udders and +2.53 FLC. He has great ratings for longevity, fertility and cell count. At 7.2% sire calving ease, he can be used on heifers.

“He is unique in the fact that his maternal grand sire is Snowman,” said Casey Larson of Kenmore Farms. “Snowman daughters are known to be trouble-free cows. ALL DAY*RC has a full sister on the farm, Kenmore Cloudless Day, who sits at +2361 GTPI.” For a top sire from a deep cow family that can also bring the red factor, ALL DAY*RC fits the bill!

Accelerated Genetics’ lineup features a diverse offering of Red & White and Red Carrier Holstein genetics including, 014HO07175 DUCATIRED, 014HO07275 TRAK-RED, 014HO07325 DURANGO*RC and 204HO02050 REALITY-RED. These sires combine positive production traits with high type in order to produce Red & White cattle for your herd or the show ring.

014HO07485 ALL DAY *RC MGD: Our-Favorite Shnazzy Rae-ET

DUCATI-RED is a complete Red & White sire due to a pleasing combination of yield and health traits. His Maternal Great Grand Dam was the notable Woodlawn Juror Daisy EX-90 DOM. Look to DUCATI-RED for his type (+2.31 PTAT), as he transmits good udders (+2.70 UDC) and very correct feet and legs (+2.40 FLC). At +4.4 PL, 2.73 SCS and +1.7 DPR, DUCATI-RED sets the bar high for health traits. He will continue to impact the breed through a number of bulls he has sired that will be coming into A.I. lineups.

TRAK-RED is another top-notch Red & White sire from breeder Kenneth Larson. TRAK-RED exhibits exceptional type (+3.36 PTAT) and has an Udder Composite of +3.18. Great Productive Life (+4.3), Somatic Cell Score (2.68) and Daughter Pregnancy Rate (+1.1) make him a desirable sire.

DURANGO*RC is backed by a phenomenal cow family; his Maternal grand dam is Curr-Vale Goldwyn Delicious EX-94 2E DOM. If you are looking for a red carrier with high milk (+1187) and protein (+50), look no further. In terms of type, DURANGO*RC is at the top of the pack, scoring +3.67 PTAT. DURANGO*RC is alson a Calving Ease sire at 7.3%.

REALITY-RED is a popular breed-leading proven Red & White sire featuring show-winning type (+2.40 PTAT). His high type is due to great feet and legs (+2.66 FLC) and an Udder Composite of +1.82.

Component levels are another bonus REALITY-RED can bring to your herd with +0.29% fat and +0.07% protein.

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204HO02050 REALITY-RED Greenlea-TM Real Ab-Red-ET EX-92 Cassidy Schirmer, Galena, MD

AUGUST 2014 < GENETIC TRENDS < 13

DON’T LET COLOSTRUM BASICS Story by: David Cook, PhD., for Progressive Dairyman

Colostrum is undoubtedly one of the most important feeding practices for newborn calves. Sound, well-c and a healthy start for the newborn calf. But as time passes and changes are made to the employee team, p Colostrum basics – such as quality, quantity, quickness and cleanliness – may seem just that: basic. But without these fundamentals, the proven lifelong benefits of colostrum are often compromised. Staying focused on colostrum may mean starting at the beginning and reiterating the simple practices that have long been used to manage colostrum effectively. To help your employees stay focused on what matters most when it comes to colostrum, this article walks through four key basics for success: quality, quantity, quickness and cleanliness.

Stay focused on quickness

Stay focused on quality

Stay focused on cleanliness

Colostral immunoglobulin (Ig) concentration is the most common measure of colostrum quality. However, several studies have proven maternal colostrum can vary, not only from farm to farm but also from cow to cow on a single dairy. It is crucial for dairies to have a good pulse on colostral IgG concentrations. Unless quality is monitored regularly, it is likely that some calves will not receive enough Ig, although they may be consuming plenty of colostrum.

Harvesting colostrum as soon as possible after calving is a key practice to maximizing colostrum quality. Studies show Ig concentration steadily declines as hours pass from calving to first milking.

Stay focused on quantity Although quality could be argued the most important of the basics, it cannot stand alone. Once employees have a good understanding of what defines quality colostrum, making sure calves get an adequate amount of it is just as valuable.

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Employees often juggle several tasks and are asked to wear different hats from day to day on the dairy. Reiterate the importance of feeding colostrum quickly after birth, within two hours if possible. As shown in Figure 2, a calf ’s ability to transfer immunoglobulins from the digestive tract to the bloodstream decreases over time after birth. During team meetings, share visuals such as this one, reminding employees that timing is everything.

The last of the basics, cleanliness, can often be overlooked or taken for granted. It’s easy to assume that employees just know, but all too often, they don’t. The team approach can be applied to maintaining cleanliness as well. It starts from the moment that cow enters the parlor until the calf is fed, and every minute in between.

Research from the University of Minnesota has demonstrated if colostrum collection, handling and feeding protocols are not clearly established and followed, calves are at greater risk for failure of passive transfer. There are several practical measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of failure of passive transfer. One example is having two esophageal tube feeders that are color-coded – one for sick calves and one for newborn calves – to minimize the spread of disease among calves. Another could be as simple as spot-checking the bacteria load being delivered to the calf through colostrum. Take a sample of colostrum just before feeding the calf from the tube feeder or bottle and check it for total bacteria count at a local lab or at your dairy plant (make sure the

DON’T LEAVE FORAGE QUALITY TO CHANCE

Forage in maximiz and max

For more in Genetics to also availabl

FALL THROUGH THE CRACKS

communicated protocols are often put into place to ensure successful passive transfer of immunity protocols and attention to detail can fall through the cracks. colostrum sample is properly labeled so it is not confused with salable milk samples). The total bacterial count goal for unpasteurized colostrum is to be less than 100,000 colony-forming units per ml.

Re-training the basics Having constant reminders and goals related to proper colostrum management posted near calving and colostrum storage areas can help employees stay focused on areas that really count. Establish data log sheets and require employees to document date and time of birth, time of first feeding, colostrometer or refractometer readings of maternal colostrum, quantity fed and method of feeding (tube or nipple) for each calf – initialed by the responsible employee. Then work with calf managers to encourage and incentivize colostrum management practices with proven benefits. Also encourage the basics – quality, quantity, quickness and cleanliness – in regular employee communication opportunities. PD David Cook has a Ph.D. in dairy physiology from the University of Missouri and is Technical Service Manager for Milk Products Inc. He works from his home office in Harrisonville, Missouri. Reprinted with permission from Progressive Dairyman, Volume 28, Issue 2, January 19, 2014.

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Review the following quality basics regularly at team meetings: •

Immunoglobulin concentration – 50 g per L Ig is “good.”

•

Test for quality with a colostrum tester (refractometer or colostrometer).

•

Colostrum should be free of blood, debris and mastitis.

•

Colostrum should be disease-free.

Focus on simple, easy-to-communicate protocols, such as feeding: •

10 percent of birthweight – approximately 4 quarts to a 100-pound Holstein calf

•

3 quarts if fed by bottle (if good quality, approximately 140 g Ig intake)

•

4 quarts if fed by tube (if good quality, approximately 190 g Ig intake)

Walk through the following with employees regularly: •

Proper udder preparation before milking colostrum

•

Clean and sanitizing milking equipment before collection

•

Proper cooling or freezing as soon after collection as possible

•

Clean and sanitizing feeding equipment properly before feeding colostrum

noculants are designed to minimize shrink, ze nutrients, improve animal performance ximize dry matter intake.

nformation about Accel Ensile products, call Accelerated oday at 1-800-451-9275. Additional product resources are le on our website, www.accelgen.com.

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AUGUST 2014 < GENETIC TRENDS < 15

Focused on the things that matter:

ACCELCOATS 4 THE CAUSE One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness month. Join Accelerated Genetics in the quest to save lives. For every AccelCoat you purchase during the months of October and November, Accelerated Genetics will donate a portion of the proceeds to fund breast cancer research and awareness. These AccelCoats feature pink stitching and the pink breast cancer awareness ribbon embroidered on the shoulder. In addition, purchase 4 AccelCoats during World Dairy Expo September 30-October 4 and get a FREE cap!

To place your order, please contact your Accelerated Genetics representative today or call 1.800.451.9275.

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GENETIC TRENDS < 80191 GENETIC TRENDS < 80191