Genetic Trends - August 2012

AUGUST 2012

Producer Focused PRODUCTS

The official magazine of Accelerated Genetics

Future of Genomics Coyne-Farms Boundless Opportunities Bolton Dom-ET

Reproductive Support for CowScout™

ON THE COVER Producer’s favorite – 014HO06429 Long-Langs Oman Oman 2-ETN – is featured on this edition of Genetic Trends. He ranks #2 on the Holstein Association’s top 100 TPI™ list at +2314. Man-0-Man 2 is also an elite production sire (+79P, +87F) and a highly reliable calving ease sire at 6%. For more information on Man-O-Man 2 and highlights from the August 2012 Dairy sire summary turn to page 10 or go to www.accelgen.com. Photo by: Cybil Fisher.

FEATURES 4

Sire Feature 014HO05936 Coyne-Farms Bolton Dom-ET by: Mandy Brazil

6

Reproduction Management Providing Reproductive Support for CowScout™ Activity Monitoring System by: Kari A. Stanek

7

international focus The Value of International Growth by: Angie Lindloff

8

feed quality Get the Most Out of Your Forages This Year by: David Jones

10

sire news Fall Brings Variety to Accelerated Genetics Sire Lineup by: Aaron Palmer

12

AG People Making A Career of Friendships by: Mandy Brazil

Editor Kari A. Stanek Graphic Artist David Jones Kristin Olson Kari A. Stanek Genetic Trends is published by: Accelerated Genetics E10890 Penny Lane Baraboo, WI 53913 Postmaster Send Address Changes to: Genetic Trends, c/o Diana Shaffer, 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.

Accelerated Genetics Board and Officers President & CEO Joel Groskreutz

People is What Anchors Mayer to His Job by: Morgan Meisenheimer

Board Chair, District 8 Brian Brown, Belleville, WI

14

1st Vice Chair, District 1 Dave Score, Boyceville, WI

Genomics What Does The Genomic Future Hold? by: Dr. C. Michael Cowan

2nd Vice Chair, District 3 Gary Eibergen, Granton, WI Secretary/Treasurer, District 5 Nick Butzler, Cashton, WI District 2 John Pronschinske, Arcadia, WI

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 Find us on Facebook: Accelerated Genetics or follow us on Twitter: AccelGen 2 > GENETIC TRENDS > AUGUST 2012

Official Publication of Accelerated Genetics August 2012 Vol. 64 No. 2

District 4 Andy Dejno III, Independence, WI District 6 Dennis Bell, Gays Mills, WI District 7 Rick Carlson, Hollandale, WI District 9 Jeff Styczynski, Pulaski, WI District 10 Doug Thesing, Winona, MN

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

Producer Focused I’m constantly reminded of how fast time moves before us.

It seems like just yesterday I introduced you to our new brand promise: People.

Products. Pride. With the high speed at which the industry is moving today, Accelerated Genetics is indeed focused on moving forward at an even faster pace. We place a tremendous emphasis on the “Accelerated” portion of our name. The products and services offered at Accelerated Genetics serve as a tremendous example of this statement.

To remain a key player in the A.I. business, we’ve realized diversification needs to be a vital part of our business plan.

Accelerated Genetics has the reputation of being secondto-none in this respect. While remaining true to our core

values, we are setting our sights on new business ventures yet to be revealed. Keep watch as we prepare to unveil what lies ahead for your cooperative.

DAIRY AND BEEF GENETICS Offering superior quality genetics with outstanding customer service is what we tout. What makes us different from our competition is the next step we provide: helping you to become the best possible manager of your business.

Keeping this in mind, we’re excited to share that we have partnered with GEA Farm Technologies to offer another tool to monitor and improve reproductive performance.

We are excited to offer the CowScout™S System.

This electronic monitoring system can reduce labor, increase pregnancy rates, decrease days open and limit the need for hormone treatments.

This system will transfer the data directly to a computer, smart phone or mobile device.

ANIMAL HEALTH PRODUCTS In 1994, we added a line of solution-based animal health products to complement our genetics. This move proved to be highly beneficial to our customers in that the products were designed to fit a herd’s breeding, nutritional, milk quality and calf care needs.

There are some exciting new developments and growth in this section of our business, and we can’t wait to unveil them to you. Stay tuned for some exciting announcements in the next couple of months that will take our animal health products to the next level.

Accelerated Genetics is indeed blazing ahead in an effort to be your trusted first choice. As always, our focus is on you, your operation, and providing the most advanced tools to ensure your success.

Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your successful business.

A 70-year History is good.

JOEL GROSKREUTZ President & CEO

a 70-year future is better.

We’re certainly proud of what we’ve accomplished in the industry since 1941, but that’s nothing compared to what’s in store for the future. Why are we so confident?

Because we’ve got the right people, fantastic products— and we couldn’t be prouder of them all.

April 2012 < GENETIC TRENDS < 3

People / products / pride

800-451-9275 / info@accelgen.com / www.accelgen.com

SIRE FEATURE

014HO05936 Coyne-Farms Bolton Dom-ET by: Mandy Brazil Marketing Communications Intern

“Dom daughters are consistently balanced. They have a great combination of dairyness and strength. They have adequate width, plenty of strength, and a refined open rib structure. They consistently have a steep foot angle and track straight on their rear legs.”

Ben Sarbacker

Genetic Services Coordinator “We have three daughters and they all work really well in our 500 cow, free-stall operation. They are deep-bodied with open ribs, efficient with their feed, and pretty sharp.

They will catch your eye.”

Becky Adams Adams Dairy, Inc. of Eleva, Wis. (Owner of Adams-Creek Joy)

Dom’s pedigree adds to the appeal for the #16 TPI™ sire.

Coyne-Farms Bolton Dom-ET *BY

G

reat cow families are the result of progressive breeding. Great cattle come out of great cow families.

This concept is proven once again in 014HO05936 Dom *BY.

Coming from Coyne Farms of Avon, N.Y., Dom’s genetic quality is not an accident. The Coyne’s have been breeding elite registered Holsteins since 1945. The farm milks about 900 Holsteins and exports genetics globally. They have bred over one hundred excellent classified females. Their breeding program aligns with practical industry ideals – high type and high value without sacrificing production.

Owner, Greg Coyne, explains, “We like cows that will last and are firm believers in productive life and health trait numbers.” Their carefully planned genetic progress has had an impact on the Holstein breed. They have had many sons in Accelerated Genetics line up, including current active sire 014HO05654 Yeter.

Coyne-Farms Bolton Dom-ET has the potential to be another producer favorite!

Dom emerged as a standout April 2012 PACE graduate with TPI™ at +2136, which ranks him in the top twenty for proven bulls.

It is also important to note his superiority in being a top fifty ranking bull for Feet and Legs Composite, Udder Composite and Predicted Transmitting Ability for Type.

His numbers are impressive at +2.89 PTAT, +2.48 UDC and +3.00 FLC.

Born: 09/01/2007

sire: Sandy-Valley Bolton-ET EX-90 DAM: Coyne-Farms bret daffers-ET EX-91 3-01 3x 365 34,280 4.4% 1504 3.3% 1133 MGS: Peckenstein form bret-ET EX-91 MGD: coyne-farms rudolph daffy EX-90 4-01 3x 365 40,780 3.3% 1347 2.9% 1187 MGGS: startmore rudolph-ET VG-85 MGGD: C oyne-Farms merrill daisy VG-88w 3-01 3x 365 32,050 3.4% 1098 3.3% 1046

An all around, well-balanced sire, Dom maintains a complete proof in the area of production as well. He is high milk at +1406 PTAM with 94% reliability. He is expected to transmit high lifetime profit with +496 NM$. To complement this, his outcross pedigree does not include Shottle, Goldwyn, or O Man. Sire Sandy-Valley Bolton was a great match for the Dom’s dam, Coyne-Farms Bret Daffers. “He was a newly proven high TPI sire that was a complimentary match adding

4 > GENETIC TRENDS > AUGUST 2012

more production and type to the mating.

Bolton needed protection in Productive Life and Daughter Pregnancy Rating and Dom’s maternal line was exceptional in those areas,” says Gregg Topp, Dairy Sire Analyst. Topp appreciates the dam’s sire stack of Bret out of Rudolph by Merrill, as well as the longevity of the maternal line in a large commercial operation. Bret is a Formation son with high genetic rankings for health and fitness traits, noting his Productive Life, Somatic Cell Score and Daughter Pregnancy Rate. The next dam is an Excellent Rudolph daughter. A Gold Medal Dam and Dam of Merit, her top lactation record is over 40,000 pounds milk.

Rudolph is known for his functional type and tremendous health traits.

Creating a similar pattern to his sire, Dom’s high type and udder composites are not surprising. Daughters will be tall, strong individuals with flat, open ribs. He will transmit snugly attached mammary systems with tremendously high, wide rear udder attachments and super foot angles. Dom will especially be an improver for teat placement with a strong udder cleft and close, squarely placed front and rear teats.

Dom’s dam was a great example of the type of daughters one can expect.

Recognized as a Dam of Merit, she was Excellent-91 and Excellent in her udder and feet and legs. “Bret Daffers [was] the ideal large commercial free stall cow,” says Topp.

She made over 30,000 pounds of milk in her first lactation. She had a genomic test of +2042 GTPI and +4.6 PL.” Coyne adds, “She was a great cow. Anyone that saw her remembered her. She was good.”

Dom’s dam has nearly twenty daughters, with three of Dom’s full sisters scored Very Good. A.I. companies have sampled more than a dozen of her sons. Dom is exceptional as her highest reliability Bolton son. He makes stylish, well-balanced daughters with high producing records that will be profitable additions to any herd. Logical matings for Dom include Man-O-Man, Trump, Bowser, Marion, Palermo, Jake, and Dotson.

Top: Sparta Dom 4119 GP-80, Sparta Farms, N.Y.; Middle: Adams-Creek Dom Joy GP-83, Adams Dairy, Inc., Wis.; Bottom: Abel Acres Dom 996, Abel Acres, Inc., Wis.

August 2012 < GENETIC TRENDS < 5

REPRODUCTION MANAGEMENT

Providing Reproductive Support for CowScout™ Activity Monitoring System by: Kari A. Stanek Industry Relations Coordinator

E

lectronically monitoring cows for heat detection can reduce labor, increase pregnancy rates, decrease days open and limit the need for hormone treatments. Now, with the new CowScout™S system, from GEA Farm Technologies, dairy producers can benefit from electronic activity monitors and receive more accurate breeding information, no matter where they are, via internet, smart phone or text messaging.

Accelerated Genetics has been a genetic and reproductive resource for over 70 years. Now with this unique alliance, producers can use an activity device and trust that their reproductive program will be fully supported with a knowledgeable ReproAdvisor™ from Accelerated Genetics.

“Producers can work with their local Accelerated Genetics representative when it comes to their

CowScout™ includes web interface, a unique web portal just for smartphones and tablets with different notification features.

breeding program and utilize our reproductive experts in regards to getting the best results from the CowScout activity monitoring system and assistance with other reproductive concerns,” says Gary Fassett, Accelerated Genetics Vice President International Sales.

“CowScout allows today’s dairies to simply use an internet connection to access heat detection data for their herd,” said Steve Pretz, GEA Farm Technologies U.S. Sales Manager for Milking and Cooling products. “Data is shared utilizing cloud technology – making it accessible anytime, anywhere, and it is transmitted continuously, so dairy producers always have the latest information and they can make timely breeding decisions.”

The CowScout activity monitoring system brings convenience and efficiency to heat detection. When a cow or heifer is in heat, activity levels increase, and the CowScout system sends an activity alert to a computer, a mobile device, or both – depending on pre-set preferences – alerting herd managers precisely when a cow reaches peak heat.

“CowScout offers dairy producers a simple, accurate, and flexible heat detection program that fits any management style – and works with any brand of milking equipment or parlor configuration. It is also an excellent choice for heifer raising operations.

Installation components are minimal and there is no complex software,” adds Pretz. “No other system on the market compares.”

The CowScout activity monitoring system is fullysupported and installed by GEA Farm Technologies dealers, carrying the WestfaliaSurge product line; a professional network with unsurpassed dairy equipment experience – available to local dairy operations 24/7.

For more information about CowScout contact your local Accelerated Genetics sales representative, call 1-800-451-9275, email info@accelgen.com or go to www.accelgen.com.

CowScout™ uses leg or neck bands for accurate movement and mobility monitoring.

6 > GENETIC TRENDS > AUGUST 2012

INTERNATIONAL FOCUS

The Value of International Growth Ten Minutes with John Schouten, CEO of World Wide Sires, Ltd. by: Angie Lindloff Director of Communications

W

orld Wide Sires, Ltd. is owned by Accelerated Genetics and just celebrated its 40th anniversary this past year.

This company is an important asset to Accelerated Genetics that concentrates on the global market outside of the Americas. Recently, John Schouten, CEO of World Wide Sires, explained the reason why Accelerated Genetics owns this company and the value of Artificial Insemination in the global market.

What is the history of World Wide Sires, LTD. and what is Accelerated Genetics’ role in this company?

Schouten: World Wide Sires, Ltd. was founded in 1971 and represents all USA artificial insemination cooperatives in the International markets outside of the Americas. In 2001, Accelerated Genetics bought 50% of the company providing the genetics that World Wide Sires distributes.

Along with those genetics, we also rely on key people from Accelerated Genetics – who can offer reproduction and genetic support to our customers.

What is the potential market outside the Americas?

Schouten: International genetics growth is increasing daily. Producers worldwide see the value of investing in quality genetics to enhance their herd’s potential. World Wide Sires focuses on key markets that continue to strive toward that genetic improvement. Western Europe, United Kingdom, Italy, Turkey, China, and

South Asia are a few of the areas that we are focused on for continued genetic growth.

In 2011, World Wide Sires achieved record sales and are on track to finish another stellar year in 2012!

How is genomics looked upon in other countries?

Schouten: Genomic interest varies by country. While genomics seem to be slower progressing Internationally compared to the United States, global customers are appreciative of the higher reliability sires.

We still need to provide a good mix for the market of proven and genomic sires and provide the best genetics possible. I am confident we offer the best genetics and Accelerated Genetics plays a principle role in providing those to World Wide Sires.

What makes World Wide Sires stand out above the competition?

Schouten: The people. We have focused hard on obtaining the right people and putting them in the right place to help grow World Wide Sires…I believe we have that team! People buy from people. The relationships formed on a customer level are built on trust and honesty. The World Wide Sires team is focused on providing that end user the best possible product at a valued price. We are also focused on providing services to our distributors

“The opportunities of World Wide Sires are endless!”

John Schouten, CEO - WWS

that will help take their customer herd’s goals to the next level. Recently, World Wide Sires introduced a Global Training Center, which focuses on giving the key distributors and customer’s technical artificial insemination training as well as dairy management training. We also have vital reproduction specialists, such as Accelerated Genetics’ Dr. Humberto Rivera and Dr. Glaucio Lopes, who focus on providing one-on-one reproduction support. These services and our people set us apart from other companies.

Recently World Wide Sires hosted a Distributor Conference in Boston, Massachusetts. How has this event affected the growth of World Wide Sires?

Schouten: Every two years we have the privilege of hosting our distributors for a conference. This year, the conference was in the United States in Boston. Nearly 50 countries attended this event along with the World Wide Sires and Accelerated Genetics staff. Attendees to the conference participate in strategy sessions that focus on the value of A.I., enhancing market share, and building relationships that can help their business grow. The conference has a significant effect on the growth of World Wide Sires as it shows distributors the value of our products and gives them direct access to the key tools and people that help them grow their own business!

The opportunities of World Wide Sires are endless and with the help from Accelerated Genetics we will continue to grow!

August 2012 < GENETIC TRENDS < 7

FEED QUALIT Y

Get The Most Out of Your Forages This Year by: David Jones Communications Coordinator

T

his year’s corn crop presents some unique challenges to producers. We are experiencing one of the hottest and driest years on record and our crops have certainly felt the effects of this severe weather. When it comes to the harvesting and ensiling process, what can we do to make the best of what we’ve got?

Without a significant rainfall, many corn fields have seen shorter stands or even firing.

One of the risks this increased stress brings is higher nitrate content. If harvested and ensiled properly, we can reduce the risk of nitate

Using an innoculant on your silage leads to higher animal performance.

8 > GENETIC TRENDS > AUGUST 2012

toxicity and maintain high quality silage. The proper silage fermentation will usually reduce nitrate levels by 50%. If you know nitrates will be a problem, there are a couple of things we can do. Either dilute the feed with other forages or raise the cutter bar (the highest concentration of nitrogen is in the bottom of the stalk).

Besides worrying about nitrates, how do we maintain silage quality? When do we harvest?

The simplest way to determine when corn silage can be harvested is to look at the kernel.

Corn should be at 1/4 to 2/3 milk line before harvesting. We also need to keep moisture in mind when chopping; noting the best moisture for ensiling corn silage is around 65-70% moisture. The moisture in upright silos can dip as low as 60% and still ensile well.

During chopping, we also have to take into account chop length. While we want a particle long enough to promote a healthy rumen, we need to keep it short enough for proper packing. It’s recommended unprocessed corn silage be cut at 3/8 to 1/2 inch, while processed corn silage can be as long as 3/4 inch. Most importantly, make sure the blades are sharp.

Ripping or tearing the corn, rather than chopping, can increase seepage in the pile.

Once the corn has been chopped, it’s time to pack. The denser the pile, the quicker and more complete the fermentation will be. If using a bunker, we want a very tightly packed pile to reduce spoilage and dry matter loss. The packing tractor should be as heavy as possible.

If the filling rate is high, a second tractor may be necessary to ensure proper packing.

Bunkers, piles and silos all need to be covered to prevent dry matter and nutrient loss. Delaying cover exposes the feed to oxygen, which can slow fermentation (especially in the first few feet exposed to air). This can also increase the amount of spoilage on a pile.

One question we often consider is whether or not to use an inoculant? Even in years without challenges in the field, an inoculant is highly recommended. Research shows there are many

Now is NOT the time to make sacrifices on your cows diet. advantages to using an inoculant on your silage including a reduction in dry matter losses, greater feed stability, higher animal performance and digestibility and improved bunk and face life. Inoculants compete for fermentable carbohydrates against molds and yeasts, and the good bacteria produce acids such as lactic, acetic or propionic.

To get the most out of your inoculant, a viable (live) bacteria inoculant should be packaged in heat sealed foil lined canisters, packets or bags. This helps maintain the stability of the bacteria. Inoculants only make up part of a good forage program, and for this upcoming year they will be very important in your forage management program.

Best Kept Secret At Accelerated Genetics revealed

DON’T LEAVE SILAGE QUALITY TO CHANCE! USE ACCEL ENSILE!

1

Research shows inoculants: • Reduce dry matter loss (less shrink) • Improve feed-out and increases bunk life • Reduces heat damage and improves feed digestion • Increases milk production • Improves preservation of feed value

Accel Ensile is non-toxic to humans and animals, noncorrosive to equipment and available in both dry and wet-applied formulas. The patented process of stabilization and packaging ensures life and viable bacteria specifically selected for the crop being ensiled.

Inbreeding coefficients have become increasingly important considerations in progressive breeding programs around the world. For every one percent of inbreeding it has been shown to have an inverse affect on a cow’s total productivity and longevity. Accelerated Genetics understands the economic impact high inbreeding can have on a herd. Herds utilizing Accelerated Genetics’ Genetic Evaluation Mating (GEM) program have been effectively monitoring inbreeding for years.

further increases convenience, while reducing the worry of inbreeding.

The GEM program has various options for producers to utilize the matings to best fit their herd management style. For those breeders not interested in having individual matings per cow, but are concerned about their herd’s inbreeding, Accelerated Genetics has the Inbreeding Risk Assessment Profile (RAP).

Even herds with limited available records for their cows can benefit from RAP. The coefficient developed for the herd will be based on either the pedigree, if available, or an archive of past sires that have been used on the farm.

2

The RAP feature, developed over ten years ago, can be used on a population of animals, herd or pen. The unique tool will generate an estimated inbreeding percentage for the group and compile a list of outcross sires. This inclusion

“The GEM inbreeding analysis feature, RAP, has been the ‘best kept secret’ at Accelerated Genetics for boosting herd performance and producer profitability,” says Joe Stanek, GEM Administrator. “Basically, RAP is a ‘whole’ herd analysis that creates a list of bulls that meet inbreeding criteria.”

Maintaining steady genetic progress is both feasible and convenient with the GEM program and RAP tool. For more information about Accelerated Genetics’ on-farm mating service, GEM, contact your local sales representative, call 1-800-451-9275, email info@accelgen.com or go to www.accelgen.com.

August 2012 < GENETIC TRENDS < 9

SIRE NEWS

Fall Brings Variety to Accelerated Genetics Sire Lineup by: Aaron Palmer Dairy Sire Analyst

A

s the blistering summer heat cools into colorful fall, your Accelerated Genetics lineup is heating up with a super August sire summary! Thanks to the strength of the PACE® program and the support of breeders like you, a solid core of 14-stud code bulls is charging ahead with the addition of first- and secondcrop daughters. And who says you can’t love proven bulls in the genomic era?!

Proven Sires Soar Breeders have been buzzing about 014HO04929 MAN-O-MAN as more and more of his second-crop daughters calve.

All eyes were on him on proof day, and he

did not disappoint! With more than 250 new milking daughters, MAN-O-MAN made impressive production gains: a 99-pound boost in PTA Milk to +1541, a nine-pound jump in PTA Fat to +87 and a seven-pound spike in PTA Protein to +79!

Once official breed rankings are released, he tops the charts for Protein and is among the top 10 in the breed for Fat. There was never much question that MAN-O-MANs can milk and crank components, so it’s equally exciting to see his type and udder scores bolstered by the addition of scored second-crop daughters.

MAN-O-MAN holds steady for PTA Type at +2.00 and reaches his highest post-base adjustment UDC at +1.65. His typical daughters are tall, with adequate chest

Top left: Blondin Man O Man Camille, Maifield Holsteins and Sjendi, Ont., Canada; Top right: Cava-Lanes Trump Dazzle GP-82; Dan & Angie Rieder, Wis.; Bottom left: Abel Acres Massive 23, Abel Acres, Inc., Wis.; Bottom right: Menn Lotto Lanaye, Harvey & Jackie Menn, Wis. 10 > GENETIC TRENDS > AUGUST 2012

and rump width, moderate rib and some straightness to the rear legs. He can make them fancy, too! Step behind and you will be wowed by their awesome rear udders and strong clefts.

MAN-O-MAN’s second-crop success confirms his enormous worldwide popularity as a sire of sons and bull dams. He climbs higher than ever for TPI™, breaking an elite threshold at +2314 and ranking #2 among all proven bulls. He also eclipses the 700-point barrier for NM$ at +714. Although MAN-OMAN has passed, breeders in many markets can add his influence through 014HO06429 MAN-O-MAN 2.

Several of MAN-O-MAN 2’s barn mates also confirm their strengths with the addition of second-crop daughters: A maternal brother to MAN-O-MAN, 014HO04924 KRAMER adds more than 400 daughters, holding steady for TPI™ and NM$ at +1938 and +473, respectively.

From the same elite family as KRAMER, 014HO04878 KALAHARI adds more than 550 daughters and improves for PL and DPR to +3.7 and +2.0, respectively. His daughters are open-ribbed, wide-rumped and boast phenomenal fore udders at +3.40 FUA. He maintains a solid UDC of +2.12. His unique sire stack of Finley x Rubytom x Finale makes him a flexible breeding option.

Another popular first-crop sire, 014HO04916 JAKE adds more than 1,300 daughters. JAKE isn’t what we thought he was; he is better! Improving for all areas of production and fitness and staying close to his earlier type composites, JAKE jumps 59 points for NM$ and 50 points for TPI™ to +460 and +1893, respectively. Better yet, at 5% SCE, and +1.7 SCR, he is suited for widespread use.

Popular bulls from the genomics era will have several hundreds of daughters or more in their first-crop proofs. 014HO05434 TRUMP is our first benefactor, thanks to his early popularity as a GeneFORCE® sire. This Shottle son nearly doubles his daughter total to 636, and his steadiness is remarkable! All together, and TRUMP moves higher for NM$ and TPI™ at +451 and +1980, respectively.

014HO05936 DOM*BY is an April graduate who added 40 daughters and soars

in multiple areas. An offbeat sire stack of Bolton x Bret x Rudolph x Merrill adds to the appeal of this top 20 TPI™ bull.

August Graduates Now let’s turn the spotlight on our solid class of August graduates. Numbers aside, the first great thing to consider is that none of our nine proven Holstein graduates have Shottle in their pedigree, and all but one are free of Goldwyn. Therefore, we have many new flexible options for your mating program. Let’s take a look at the highlights: 014HO06033 MASSIVE leads the way with solid production and type, and fantastic fitness, pushing him to +645 NM$ and +2085 TPI™. His daughters will fill the bulk tank at +1302 PTA Milk and +58 PTA Fat. They are balanced in their frames with moderate stature and strength.

Their sound udder attachments and central support should hold up well, indicated by a monster PL of +6.9 and pleasing SCS of 2.64. He ranks near the breed’s top 10 for PL. Moving around on concrete will not be a problem at +1.88 FLC. Combine all this with a unique sire stack of Baxter x VG-86 Outside x VG-86 Amel, and you’ll see why MASSIVE has a lot to get excited about!

Boliver son 014HO06047 FAVRE is the type standout of his class. At +2.91 PTA Type, he makes them tall and dairy with beautiful udders. Other than medium teat length, all his udder traits are over +2.00. He excels the most for fore udders and clefts.

Already with 104 daughters in 59 herds, FAVRE puts up respectable production for a high type sire at +729 PTA Milk.

014HO5980 MERLIN is our first Zenith son, debuting at +519 NM$ and +1969 TPI™. From an O Man dam, he was bred to make long-lasting cows that give highquality milk and breed back quickly. His numbers clearly reflect this: +5.6 PL, 2.46 SCS and +1.8 DPR. Unlike many fitness specialists, MERLIN daughters make respectable milk records at +545 PTA Milk.

They are small-framed cows with good rump width for their size.

Do you have lots of heifers to breed this fall? Take a look at 014HO06132 DIGGER. A popular GeneFORCE® sire from genomic

Upcoming Events 19th Annual Intercollegiate Dairy Cattle Judging Contest Hosted by: Accelerated Genetics Viroqua, Wisconsin September 16, 2012 World Dairy Expo Exhibition Hall Booth # 3601-3603 Coliseum Booth # 191-193 Madison, Wisconsin October 2-6, 2012 North American International Livestock Exposition Louisville, Kentucky November 3-16, 2012 brood cow Ronelee Outside Dabble-ET EX-91-GMD-DOM, DIGGER is one of the breed’s best for SCE at 4%, based on more than 2,800 births. He is suitable for problem breeders and virgin heifers alike, with +1.6 SCR. With 45 daughters in 29 herds, he stands at +581 NM$ and +2174 GTPI™. His early milking daughters place him at +581 PTA Milk. While he does not yet have a proven type proof, recently scored daughters have been trending well. He is a rock star for fitness at +6.5 PL, 2.57 SCS and +1.4 DPR. Protein Breed Highlights As we head into the bright colors of fall, our sire review would be incomplete without a glance at our new protein breed graduates: 014AY00027 DREW left me stunned on a recent daughter tour at Jereczek Homestead Dairy in Dodge, Wis. His daughters are like peas in a pod! DREW daughters can be described as framey cows with awesome udders. They are good milk producers with solid component percentages.

014BS00340 DON is a components specialist at +43 PTA Fat and +24 PTA Protein. This Scipio son from a Pronto dam is an improver of all udder traits.

014BS00341 EMERGENCY is among the breed’s best for udders at +1.82 UDC. He welds them on at +2.10 Fore Udder Attachment.

This Scipio son from a Brinks dam makes moderate-framed cows and is a respectable butterfat improver at +34 PTA Fat. 014JE00533 VITO is the undisputed breed leader for PTA Milk and PTA

Protein at +2381 and +71, respectively.

This former GeneFORCE® sire now begins to validate his genomic numbers with 32 daughters in 15 herds. This Restore son from a Paramount dam makes tall, openribbed, dairy machines with high, wide rear udders. He also adds slope to the rump. Put it all together, and VITO ranks in the top tier of the breed at +205 JPI. Another former GeneFORCE® sire, 014JE00537 LOTTO now ranks among the breed’s best proven bulls at +199 JPI and +616 NM$. With 59 daughters in 28 herds, this Jevon son from a Jace dam puts up an impressive PTA Fat of +82. He is a PL and SCS improver at +5.3 and 2.66, respectively.

His daughters are strong-bodied with pleasing rear udders and solid center support.

014MS00113 SPURGEON premiers with solid PTI and NM$ of +114 and +292, respectively. With 24 daughters in 16 herds, this Ted son from a Blaser dam has respectable PTA Milk of +982. His daughters are dairy and open-ribbed with small stature.

With another solid proof run, Accelerated Genetics takes great pride in the breed-leading sires stemming from our PACE® program. With more pleasant temperatures upon us, beautiful fall colors soon to burst and World Dairy Expo fast approaching, what’s not to love?

Great thanks to our customers who make Accelerated Genetics their trusted first choice. We hope to see you in Madison, Wis. for expo this fall!

August 2012 < GENETIC TRENDS < 11

AG PEOPLE

Making A Career of Friendships by: Mandy Brazil Marketing Communications Intern

A

sk someone to tell you about Ben Slack and his or her first response will most likely be a smile. Those who have the pleasure of working with Slack, as customers or co-workers, enjoy his upbeat outlook on life, sense of humor, and commitment to providing a quality service.

As an A.I. Technician for Accelerated Genetics, it is important to be a people person. It is also important to provide a quality service. Slack is excellent at both.

His ever-enduring dedication has earned Slack the status of joining the 100,000 Cow Club. As a result of servicing over 100,000 qualifying cows, he will be among an elite group of technicians being recognized at the annual National Association of Animal

Slack will be honored at the 2012 Annual NAAB Convention for his 100,000 Cow Club Achievement.

Breeders Convention in September.

A familiar face at dairies throughout the Vernon, Crawford, and LaCrosse, Wis. area, Slack will typically travel over 200 miles per day. The biggest change he has noticed since beginning, as a technician, is the number of dairies in his area has decreased. On the remaining dairies Slack shares, “there has been shift in the management styles towards more business conscience decisions.” And he believes Accelerated Genetics has done a great job developing to accommodate the change in farm management.

New or old, treating customers as friends is the basis of Slack’s mindset. They can count on him to have a genuine interest in their happiness. It is obvious that he truly cares about the impression that he leaves with farmers. Slack says, “[he] wants people to be happy to see him.” When asked what the most rewarding part of his job is, his response was simply

Slack has bred cows at Larry Gilbertson’s (above right) farm in Chaseburg, Wis. for over sixteen years.

12 > GENETIC TRENDS > AUGUST 2012

the relationships that he has built and maintained with customers over the years.

Much of Slack’s success can likely be attributed to his sound work ethic. He goes about each day with the simple, but insightful, philosophy that if you continuously strive to do a good job, you will consistently be better off. Slack does not believe in taking shortcuts in life and says he tries “to breed every cow like it’s my own.”

“This is the perfect job for [Ben]. He likes dairy cows and is excellent at working with farmers,” says family friend, Kelly Olson.

Olson grew up with Slack and knows that “[Ben] is a hard worker and does what he loves.” Slack agrees that he is happy with where he is at in life.

Aside from helping on his family’s Holstein farm, Slack has never worked for anyone other than Accelerated Genetics.

He started as an intern seventeen years ago and was hired the following year as an A.I. technician. Slack’s pride in Accelerated Genetics is deeper than being an employee.

His connection could be considered a family tradition. Growing up on his family’s farm in the cooperative’s membership area, they were a loyal Accelerated Genetics herd. His grandfather has told Slack that he remembers when Accelerated Genetics started over 70 years ago.

“He’s just a person everyone enjoys being around. He has a great sense of humor and thoroughly enjoys his customers. [Ben] has done an outstanding job with his area. He keeps his focus on his customer needs and that’s what keeps his business growing. [Ben] incorporates all of Accelerated Genetics’ programs in his area from GEM to ReproConnections® to our line of animal health products. He always makes a point to know our sires, products and programs inside and out,” remarks Pam Hendel, Regional Sales Manager.

Slack says Accelerated Genetics has grown over the years and people have come and gone. However, the type of people has remained the same. “I have continued to enjoy working at Accelerated because I like the people I work with,” says Slack.

People Is What Anchors Mayer To His Job by: Morgan Meisenheimer Marketing Communications Intern

P

EOPLE. PRODUCTS. PRIDE. It is the slogan of Accelerated Genetics and this is what Tony Mayer, Membership Sales Representative, contributes to his success with the company for 24 years. This fall, Mayer will be honored at the annual National Association of Animal Breeders Convention for joining the prestigious group of industry professionals who have sold over 500,000 units of semen.

Each morning, he goes to work with the philosophy, “Be professional and treat people the way you want to be treated… while having a little fun.” It only takes one Mayer will be recognized for selling over 500,000 units of semen by the NAAB in September,

Tony Mayer

Membership Sales Representative Responsibilities: Conducts direct sales of semen and animal health products and takes care of any service needs in north central Wisconsin. Works closely with Accelerated Genetics team members consisting of A.I. technicians, regional assistants and regional services specialists.

Tenure: 24 years with Accelerated Genetics.

FAVORITE PART OF JOB: The people!

Milestone: Sold over 500,000 units of semen.

day riding along with Mayer to see that his credo seems to work.

“Much of my success is because I work for a people company,” says Mayer. “It’s the main reason I wanted to work at Accelerated Genetics. I have enjoyable coworkers and customers, and sell quality products. As a result, I have pride in what I do.”

Mayer works in a diverse area of Wisconsin and also attributes his ability to work with all kinds of people and farm sizes to his accomplishments.

“I enjoy my conversations with farm families and looking at the genetic progress they have made over the generations,” comments Mayer. “I listen to my customers, so that I am better able to assist them and help them reach their herd goals.”

Pam Hendel, Regional Sales Manager, says, “[Tony’s] customers often comment that he is one of the friendliest people you will ever meet and I would definitely agree!

He ensures that his customers know him and Accelerated Genetics.” “[Tony] is a real team player,” adds Hendel. “The respect that has been built between him and the technicians in his area makes for a strong team whose customer service is second-to-none.”

Mayer’s customers certainly agree with Hendel.

“The biggest thing for us as customers is service,” shares Elma Luchterhand, owner of Elusive Hill Dairy in Chili, Wis. “Whether it is directly from Tony, or another Accelerated Genetics team member, he

makes sure we get service when we need it.”

However, Mayer hasn’t always been an Accelerated Genetics employee. “It wasn’t until I attended a Jaycee’s Outstanding Young Farmer Banquet that Alvin Hansen, a past, longtime Accelerated Genetics’ A.I. technician, had a serious discussion with me,” says Mayer. “The next day led to this [career]. Best move I ever made!”

Mayer isn’t a stranger to sales awards, but he remains humble and considers the people he has been surrounded with his greatest privilege. “The greatest honor I have had since working at Accelerated Genetics are the people that I have worked with and a special note to: Al Hanson, Dave Larson, Dick Eide, Roger Ripley, Glen Jensen and many others who have mentored me,” adds Mayer.

When he isn’t on his sales routes, Mayer serves on a variety of town committees, assists with local 4-H and FFA programs, and enjoys hunting, fishing and traveling.

He is also the father to three daughters and grandfather to four grandchildren.

Mayer will be honored at the 2012 Annual NAAB Convention for selling 500,000 units of semen.

August 2012 < GENETIC TRENDS < 13

GENOMICS

What Does The Genomic Future Hold?

Expect Boundless opportunites and a whole new world of specialized animal management by: Dr. C. Michael Cowan Vice President Reserach - Accelerated Genetics General Manager - Genetic Visions, Inc.

T

he bovine genome sequencing project completed in 2009 was truly a watershed event. It shone a spotlight on the role played by certain genes that code for economically important traits like milk yield, feed efficiency, reproductive performance and several others and changed genetic selection forever.

A slew of new technologies followed, including the tools that spurred the widespread use of the genomic evaluations applied throughout the dairy industry today.

Genomic pedigree information is significantly more

The future of genomics is at our fingertips and Genetic Visions is one of the research leaders.

14 > GENETIC TRENDS > AUGUST 2012

reliable than traditional parent average data. As a result dairy farmers have benefited from much more rapid genetic progress, the ability to cull inferior animals from a herd at a young age and increased confidence in breeding decisions.

While these advancements are exciting and noteworthy, we’re just beginning to tap into the possibilities of where this research may lead. The potential to improve genetics through genomics is enormous!

The same, yet different Many current genomic technologies focus on DNA and the genetic coding information contained therein—and that’s helpful and important. But it’s also only half of the equation.

As such, our current knowledge is not able to answer questions like why twin heifers with identical DNA raised in the same environment may not look the same or respond in the same way to management actions.

In short, we can’t yet completely answer the question of what turns an animal response to individual stimuli on or off.

What’s in a cell?

As mentioned, DNA is only half the picture.

To expand the spotlight and get a bigger picture of the genomic stage, researchers are widening their scope to include all of the inherited material in a cell. Known as chromatin, this material contains DNA as well as a histone protein cone around which a DNA strand is wrapped.

The research focus has shifted from genomics to epigenomics—the study of heritable changes in gene expression caused by mechanisms other than the changes in DNA. We’ve learned that if the way DNA is wrapped around the histone proteins changes, gene expression can change. This means that an animal’s response to a management action can vary due to some event, without a change in its basic DNA sequence.

In addition, researchers have discovered that DNA methylation (a biochemical process that involves the addition of a methyl group to certain positions within the DNA strand) also impacts gene expression. Not all genes are methylated, and one of the big challenges is to solve what the mechanisms are that cause DNA to be methylated or not.

Future implications Histone modification and DNA methylation modification offer two epigenomic opportunities for livestock management. That is, can DNA be wound or unwound or can a gene be methylated to change the way an animal responds? The goal is not to change the DNA itself, but to beneficially change a gene’s expression in reaction to management actions.

If we understand what causes an animal to respond a certain way to a management change we may be able to affect that response. Potentially, we will be able to sort out whether management impacts are environmental or genetic in origin, and then create solutions accordingly.

For instance, if we can understand why cows respond as they do to arid climates or colder northern climates, we can develop management systems to better fit the responses we desire.

Down the road we will likely be able to determine the long-term effects of feed ingredients or why animals age as they do. We may also be able to influence the impact of a single environmental event on multiple generations.

If the chromatin in a pregnant female is altered, that change will impact the chromatin of the unborn (female) fetus and the eggs that fetus already carries. vv

The list is endless It’s expected this work will lead to new animal health products developed to protect against critical diseases, changes in feeding management and advances in animal housing that will better fit animal needs.

Plus, exploring all of the genetic material within a cell—not only DNA—will help us better understand the more lowly heritable traits, like certain reproductive traits, and help farmers and managers move beyond current selection criteria.

Right now we’re on a fishing expedition.

Where epigenomics is today is about where genomics was 20 years ago.

But we’re moving forward and developing the tools needed to expand our investigation and ask the right questions. Once we do that, we can take the genomic information we have now and begin to explore why differences in animal performance occur and what we can do to impact those responses in new ways.

For more information about Genetic Visions go to www.geneticvisions.net or call 608.662.9170 or email info@geneticvisions.net.

I N T R O D U C I N G

SOP® GOLD COW BARN BIO-HYGIENIZATION

T H E U LT I M AT E S O L U T I O N .

Simply add SOP® GOLD COW to the mixing wagon or feed ration and it will become active when excreted by the animal into the environment. This is optimal for all types of housing, especially for environments with a large number of animals. SOP® GOLD COW is practical, completely harmless to animals and very easy to use. All it takes is 7 ounces for every 100 cows per day.

WHY SHOULD I USE SOP® GOLD COW? Lower Somatic Cell Count Less environmental mastitis Reduction of environmental foot dermatitis Less flies Less ammonia smells Drier bedding Cleaner cows

Available in the United States exclusively through

Cleaner udders Less time cleaning teats before milking Convenient to use!

August 2012 < GENETIC TRENDS < 15

Sensational

CALVING�EASE

to fit your needs!

Stud Code Name 014HO04956 014HO06132 014HO04916 014HO05016 014HO05359 014HO05917 014HO03597 014HO04929 014HO05006 014HO05954 014HO05617

CE Rel.

Dotson (O Man x Durham) 4% Digger (Goldwyn x Outside) 4% Jake (O Man x BW Marshall) 5% Wilk (Tredway x Rudolph) 5% Cars (Laudan x Durham) 5% Jettason (Elegant x Champion) 5% Potter (Manfred x Juror) 6% Man-O-Man 1 & 2 (O Man x AltaAaron) 6% Cedric (O Man x Blitz) 6% Douglas (Mac x O Man) 6% Mystic (Buckeye x Morty) 6%

99% 96% 99% 98% 95% 82% 99% 99% 98% 96% 90%

800-451-9275

|

Stud Code Name

CE Rel.

014HO05647 014HO05927 014HO04924 014HO05411 014HO05560 014HO05639 014HO06009 014HO05654 014HO05881 014HO05751

6% 6% 7% 7% 7% 7% 7% 7% 7% 7%

Davis (Toystory x Outside) Hadrain (Shottle x Champion) Kramer (O Man x AltaHershel) Palermo (Goldwyn x Rudolph) Emerald (Marion x Lynch) CM (Sharky x Outside) Mainstay (Ramos x Boss Iron) Yeter (Sharky x AltaFinley) Trent (Elegant x AltaMerchant) Oliver (Buckeye x AltaThrone)

88% 86% 99% 99% 98% 97% 86% 83% 82% 81%

WWW.ACCELGEN.COM

2012 Accelerated Genetics. Source: 8/12. HA/USDA Genomic. IB/MACE-USA. Photos L-R: Blondin Man O Man Arkansas GP-83, ©Vicki Fletcher. Genervations Man O Man Lola VG-86 CAN, ©Patty Jones. Mapel Wood Man O Man Bombi VG-88 CAN, ©Patty Jones.

©