Genetic April 2010 • Vol. 62 No. 2
Sire feature: 014HO005300 Micah page 10
Impact your cows with high quality haylage page 8
Serving the industry – The cooperative way page 6
April dairy sire summary brings new PACE graduates page 4
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Features
FEATURES & NEWS
Genetic
Official Publication of Accelerated Genetics
Page 3: Maximizing Efficiency And Controlling What We Can
April 2010
Page 4: April 2010 Genetic Highlights Page 5: Maximize Your Herd’s Efficiency Page 6: Serving The Industry – The Cooperative Way Page 8: Positively Impact Your Cows With Quality Haylage Page 9: Investing In Your Forages Page 10: Springing Forward With An Elite Shottle Son Page 11: Parentage Resolved By AJCA, Semen Available Again From Gratitude Offspring Keep Your Cows Cool Page 12: Management: The Key For Fertility Success Minimize The Effects of Stress Page 14: Challenges Inspire Cotta On A Daily Basis Point & Shoot For The 2010 Photo Contest Page 15: Safe Choices Farm Walkabout Guide
On The Cover This Holstein cow is heartily enjoying her TMR. Make an impact on your herd this year by maximizing efforts on your farm that you can control. By improving your management of reproduction and forage, your herd can make big gains in production and affect your bottom line. Inside this issue are some great tools and information to help you be more successful in getting your cows pregnant and in improving your forages – all which will maximize your farm’s profit in this fluctuating economy.
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Vol. 62 No. 2
Editor: Kari A. Stanek Genetic Trends (USPS#: 638-680) is published five times a year (January, April, June, August and December) by Accelerated Genetics, E10890 Penny Lane, Baraboo, WI 53913. Periodicals postage paid at Baraboo, WI 53913 and other offices. 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 or 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: Chair of the Board: Brian Brown
Belleville, WI - District 8
First Vice Chair: Dave Score
Boyceville, WI - District 1
Second Vice Chair: Gary Eibergen
Granton, WI - District 3
Secretary/Treasurer: Doug Thesing
Winona, MN - District 10
John Pronschinske
Arcadia, WI - District 2
Carol Anderson
Whitehall, WI - District 4
Nick Butzler
Cashton, WI - District 5
Dennis Bell
Gays Mills, WI - District 6
Rick Carlson Administrative Headquarters E10890 Penny Lane • Baraboo, WI 53913 Phone: 1.800.451.9275 • 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’!
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Genetic Trends - April 2010
Hollandale, WI - District 7
Pete Kirchner
Clintonville, WI - District 9
President & CEO: Joel Groskreutz
By: Joel Groskreutz,
With the current fluctuating economy, we have been carefully budgeting for the future during our strategic planning process, which will ensure that Accelerated Genetics will be a strong cooperative in the future. The philosophy at Accelerated Genetics is maximizing efficiency and controlling expenses and inputs when we can, WHILE ensuring that we don’t sacrifice products or services to our customers around the globe. With Accelerated Genetics’ focus on efficiencies, I think it’s just as important for producers to be focusing on efficiencies where you can. As producers, you are proud of the hardworking tradition that has gotten you to where you are today. This philosophy has paid off with better performance and profit opportunities for each generation. But working in today’s wavering economic situation, you need to manage your farm operation even more intensely. In addition, you need to put the appropriate effort into the areas that will yield more returns on the farm’s investment. Yes, many of these things you are already doing, but are you looking at them and analyzing them from a benchmark, goal-oriented standpoint? The key is to maximize your efforts on the areas of the farm that you can control and that will make a big difference. For example, re-examining the management of reproduction, calf and cow nutrition and
forage harvesting in your herd and making small adjustments can make big gains in production and affect your bottom line. In the reproduction area, did you know that increasing your herd’s pregnancy rate by 14 percent could make a huge difference? For every one percent increase in pregnancy rate it equals $30 per cow annually. In addition, if days open are identified as a problem on your farm, you will save about $3 per cow per year for every day open you decrease. These are just a few reproductive tips that can maximize your farm’s profit. There are other value-added services available to you including resource articles and information which are on Accelerated Genetics website www.accelgen.com under the ‘Repro’ header. Also, check out Dr. Humberto Rivera’s article ‘Management: The Key For Fertility Success’ on pages 12-13 in this issue for some more great reproductive tips. Another area of your farm to investigate is your nutrition program. Maximizing the genetic potential of the herd begins with a successful calf-raising program and continues throughout a cow’s lactation. For over 30 years, Accelerated Genetics has established a tradition of providing solution-based products that meet the changing needs of producers. Through Accelerated Genetics value-added product lines like Accelerated Calf Technology (ACT), there are products designed to assist the
upcoming industry EvEnts National Ayrshire Convention June 16-19, 2010 • Murfreesboro, Tenn. National Guernsey Convention June 17-21, 2010 • Lancaster, Penn. American Jersey Cattle Association National Convention June 23-27 • Portland, Ore. National Holstein Convention June 26-29, 2010 • Bloomington, Minn. National Brown Swiss Convention June 30-July 3, 2010 • Louisville, Ky. National American Milking Shorthorn Society Convention July 7-10, 2010 • Kelso, Wash. National Red & White Dairy Cattle Association Convention July 21-23, 2010 • Harrisonburg, Va.
president & ceo
newborn calf through the critical first months of life. Further, Accelerated Genetics’ line of direct-fed microbials will improve feed intakes and feed utilization for maximum production and reproductive performance. Cows are the backbone of your operation as they create the income of your farm. And the actions taken with them pre-fresh and continuing throughout their lactation will influence how they perform throughout the year.
MessaGe FrOM tHe CeO
MaxiMizing effiCienCy and COnTr T Olling WhaT W Tr We Can
Positively impacting your forages is an additional area to review on your farm, as forages are only harvested once a year and how well you do it affects your herd for an entire year. Harvest time, chop length, packing density, filling time, covering the bunk or enclosing the silo and use of inoculants all play a role in helping you put away the best quality forage you can, so that your cows consume quality feed and generate great returns for your farm. Check out Dan Schreiner’s article on ‘Impacting Your Cows With Quality Haylage’ on pages 8-9. More value-added nutritional resources can be found by checking out our website at www.accelgen.com. Producers should also visit with their local Accelerated Genetics representative to assist with any further needs or questions about the above topics. In addition, to our sales representatives, we have many value-added support specialists at Accelerated Genetics ready to assist with helping producers benchmark and develop a plan to help focus on getting more efficient on the dairy and utilizing their herd’s genetics to the fullest potential. Accelerated Genetics’ representatives stand ready to assist with your breeding and herd goals. Our experienced team of representatives and support specialists will listen to your needs and offer solutions to solve problems or simply accelerate your herd program. Our employees are ready to work with your team of herdspersons, veterinarians and nutrition experts in harmony to assist in reaching your specific herd objectives. Accelerated Genetics knows the many hours you put forth on your farm already and we want to help make you more efficient and successful. We’re committed to helping you get the most out of your efforts. We hope you utilize your local representative and the team of specialists behind them along with utilizing educational pieces like Genetic Trends and our website. Together We Can Accomplish Great Things!
Genetic Trends - April 2010
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Dairy Sire News
April 2010 Genetic Highlights
By: Devan Funk, genetic development manager comes in at +1887G TPI and he is a good type bull at +2.08 PTAT. Pilot is a high component bull being +.07% fat, +53 fat and +.06% protein, +43 protein. 014HO05411 Palermo is Accelerated Genetics’ first Goldwyn son to graduate as well as the first in the industry. Palermo comes from Glenn-Ann Holsteins in Wisconsin. His dam is a Very Good-89 Rudolph daughter and the next dam is a Very Good-87 Formation daughter. Palermo excels in type. At +3.31 PTAT, he is one of the highest sires with scored daughters. Palermo has an equally impressive udder composite of +2.71 and has a nearly flawless linear profile. His reliability is still somewhat low at 86% R for production and 78% R for type.
014HO05411 Palermo Daughter: Creekside Palermo 44 GP-81 • Mike Van Vliet • Escalon, Calif. The April 2010 Genetic Evaluations are released and once again Accelerated Genetics has breed leading sires, exciting newly released PACE young sire program graduates and solid profit making sires to fit any selection criteria. Holstein Highlights In Holsteins, 014HO04929 Long-Langs OMan-O-Man-ET leads our powerful lineup for Net Merit at +609 NM$. His Total Performance Index (TPI®) at +2140G makes him #4 on Holstein’s Top 100 TPI list. Man-O-Man continues to be superior in components, being the only proven sire with over +70 fat and +70 protein. 014HO04924 Bomaz Oman Kramer 561ET improved his type to +1.47 PTAT and is the 2nd highest sire at Accelerated Genetics for TPI with +1953G and NM$ +503. New Holstein Sires New to the Holstein lineup are PACE graduates 014HO05300 End-Road Shottle Micah-ET, 014HO05360 S&E Shottle Pilot-ET, 014HO05411 GlennAnn Palermo-ET, 014HO05204 Wargo4
Genetic Trends - April 2010
Acres Genteel-ET, 014HO05319 Maypar Latch-ET and 014HO05315 WindsorManor ZE Skylar-ET*RC. 014HO05300 Micah and 014HO05360 Pilot are the first Shottle sons to graduate from the PACE young sire program. Micah comes from End-Road Farm in Michigan, a herd that has put many sires into active service. His dam is a Very Good Teamster daughter and his maternal grandam is an Excellent Rubytom daughter. Micah comes in at +1908G TPI, +433 NM$ and is 8% service sire calving ease (SCE). His daughters are tall, dairy cows that produce plenty of milk from high quality udders with low somatic cell score. Read more about Micah and his cow family on pages 10-11. 014HO05360 Pilot was bred by Joe Stanek and Jamie Endvick of Wisconsin. His dam is an Excellent-93-3E Patron daughter who is backed by two more Excellent scored dams. Pilot daughters are tall, strong, deepribbed cows with wide sloping rumps. He
014HO05204 Genteel is a Boliver son from a Very Good-87 BW Marshall daughter followed by an Excellent scored Wade daughter. He was bred by Wargo Acres of Wisconsin. Genteel is a solid bull for production, components, type and is a very high on reliability, 91% for production and 90% for type. He will sire the dairy kind with a slightly set leg and well-attached udders with a deep udder cleft. Genteel also is a good choice for heifers being 6% on SCE. An extremely low calving ease sire 014HO05319 Latch, is a Magical son from an Excellent-93-2E Outside daughter. He was bred by Susan Mower and Dennis Treen of Pennsylvania. At 4% SCE, Latch is a superb choice for heifers. 014HO05315 Skylar*RC is a red-factor, high type, high percent fat September Storm son from an Excellent-91-2E Garter daughter followed by an Excellent-93-3E Rudolph daughter. He was bred by Jason and Donna Myers of Maryland. Skylar has the ability to make the fancy kind and can make them Red and White. Spotlight on Jerseys 014JE00473 Tollenaars Impuls Louie 260ET headlines our Jersey lineup staying
New to the Jersey list is 014JE00483 Ahlem Action Access. Bred by Ahlem Farms of California, this Action son from Very Good88% Hallmark daughter is outstanding for milk production and type. In fact at +1377 milk and +1.50 PTAT, Access is the only proven Jersey sire over +1000 milk and at least +1.5 or higher on type.
Ranking list for high-ranking sires. Driver is the outcross sire that improves components, daughter fertility, udders and is very low on calving ease. april OvervieW This run has several new outstanding
PACE young sire graduates that help solidify an already solid genetic lineup. Current headliners in all breeds maintain their elite status. Look to Accelerated Genetics to provide you with outstanding sires in all breeds to improve your herd’s genetics.
Dairy sire News
near the top of the breed for Jersey Performance Index (JPI) and NM$. He is still a great source for outcross genetics having no Berretta in his pedigree and an EFI of 5.3.
Equally impressive is his +2.72 Jersey udder index and +0.9 Daughter Pregnancy Rate. Both figures are hard to come by with extreme milk production. BrOWn sWiss Brief In the Brown Swiss breed, 014BS00314 Hilltop Acres H Driver-ET moves to #2 on the breed’s top Progressive Performance MaxiMize yOUr herd’s effiCienCy:
Improve feed intakes and feed utilization for maximum production and reproductive performance with Tri-Mic 1:50. Tri-Mic 1:50 uses patented methods of stabilization and packaging to insure live, viable and fastacting microbes for maximum performance. It contains the highest concentration of ruminant-specific bacteria and is formulated for whole herd application as either a top dress or as part of your total mixed ration.
014hO05360 pilot daughter: JOMAR Pilot Ramona GP-82 • JOMAR Holsteins/Oliveira Dairy • Hilmar, Calif
Tri-Mic 1:50 is ideal for allowing a smooth transition from the dry cow diet to the higher-energy, concentrated diets required for high milk production. Also effective for countering the negative effects of heat stress, poor quality feed, calving stress, metabolic disorders or other negative environmental conditions.
014Je00483 access daughter: Dupat Access 4883 GP-84% • Wickstrom’s Jersey Farms • Hilmar, Calif Genetic Trends - April 2010
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Cooperative Corner
Serving the Industry ~ THe Cooperative WAy ~ A single straw of semen from Accelerated Genetics begins with proper bull nutrition and care, continues with proper laboratory techniques and quality control and it is further handled with care as it gets stored in liquid nitrogen tanks. Through this whole process, it takes a whole team of experienced people to work together for one common goal, producing the highest quality product they can for Accelerated Genetics’ Customers around the world. The Accelerated Genetics cooperative has provided satisfying careers for a variety of talented people with various skill sets. Here is a look into the world of Accelerated Genetics personnel that are truly the people behind the cooperative that ultimately provide the highest quality semen, solution-based products and unmatched services to customers around the world. Dan Schreiner - Product Specialist Westby, Wis. Dan Schreiner practices what he preaches. As the product specialist, he helps with bull nutrition and management decisions on the Production Facility in Westby, Wis. He also works with dairy and beef producers assisting them in how to preserve forage quality, balance rations and improve milk quality. With experience as a nutritionist and an agricultural extension agent, Schreiner joined Accelerated Genetics in January 2008. He uses his teaching skills and applies them to producer meetings and one-on-one farm visits. Those farm visits can be near Westby or on the other side of the world. In May 2008, Schreiner traveled to Bulgaria - working with Accelerated Genetics distributors and dairy producers to improve dairy herd nutrition. At that time, some herds were struggling with low milk production. Schreiner analyzed some of the rations that contained a lot of by-products. Then he assisted them in developing a plan that included several nutritional changes that should be made at specific times. This past May, Schreiner was informed that the cows from those herds were producing an average of 27 more pounds of milk per day. “Improving rumen health helped significantly in reaping this production improvement,” Schreiner concluded. Experiences like this one make Schreiner’s job very rewarding. Tim Perry - Membership Sales Representative South central Wisconsin and Northwest Illinois For Tim Perry, part-time work led to full-time work with Accelerated Genetics. He started by serving as a Regional Assistant, providing relief
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Genetic Trends - April 2010
By: JoDee Sattler, freelance writer A.I. services and then took on full-time work with the cooperative as a Herd Analyst. For the past two years, Perry has been making on-farm sales and service calls. Sales include dairy and beef semen, and animal health products - from milk replacer to calf hutches to direct-fed microbials to silage inoculants to udder balm. What does Perry like about his job? He simply responded, “Producers and cows.” Perry added that he appreciates having a great support group in his fellow employees who offer a wealth of knowledge; skills and experiences that help him help his customers. “Even in tough times, farmers hang in there. Their resiliency is truly amazing. We laugh together. We help one another. They still want quality products to help them operate successful businesses.” Kristi Pace - Genetics Program Assistant Baraboo, Wis. Ironically, Kristi Pace joined Accelerated Genetics a year ago to work with PACE (Progressive Action through Cooperative Efforts), the cooperative’s young sire program. She processes PACE applications and makes sure applicants qualify to participate in the program. When new PACE bulls are released, Pace creates the pedigree sheets for each bull that are sent to the sales force and customers. She coordinates the distribution of young sire semen to farms, sales representatives, A.I. technicians and distributors. In addition, she works with the Holstein Association USA’s SET program. Holstein USA notifies Pace with a schedule, as to when the classifiers will be at each farm to view the fresh PACE daughters. A letter is then sent out to the appropriate PACE participants notifying them of the date and time to expect the classifier. With that letter, participants receive a milk speed and disposition rating sheet. This information, along with the linear evaluation, is used to build a sire’s proof. Pace’s attention to detail and thorough follow-through plays a key role in Accelerated Genetics’ ability to deliver a sound young sire program and help customers build successful breeding programs. Whether it’s PACE herd owners, PACE users or PACE sales and service providers, Pace said, “It’s great working with people who enjoy what they do. Everyone is friendly, professional and eager to help,” she stated. “It is inspiring to belong to such a great organization.”
A lifelong resident of the Westby, Wis. area, Berger enjoys working close to home. “It’s a great location and I work with good people,” he stated. Joe Stanek - Herd Analyst South central Wisconsin, Central and South America Ten years ago, Joe Stanek started as a Herd Analyst with Accelerated Genetics in South central Wisconsin. His role has grown in responsibility, which now includes managing the GEMpc program and training all employees who use it. In addition, Accelerated Genetics recently added bull and daughter video to its portfolio of informational tools and Stanek coordinates this program as well. “It’s important that we keep the GEMpc program current for the industry,” he commented. For example, Genomics and the use of sexed semen have been incorporated into GEMpc. Stanek listed working with dairy producers and international customers as the top two aspects he likes about his job. As he works with clients, he explains that a mating program will yield some improvement in the first generation. “It’s really the second and third generations where dairy producers see major improvements,” he stated. About three times annually, Stanek travels to Central or South America; mostly to train evaluators on GEMpc, evaluate cattle, and sometimes judge dairy cattle shows in that region. One time he judged a show in Central America, which also served as a judging clinic. “Those outside the ring (judging clinic participants) were encouraged to debate with me,” Stanek explained. This made for interesting dialogue as some terms are hard to translate and both English and Spanish was being spoken.
Photos by: Kari Stanek & JoDee Sattler
Previously, he served in several different roles - Customer Service Representative, Semen Delivery Truck Operator, International Order Processor and Warehouse Manager. As a Semen Delivery Truck Operator for three years, he experienced Wisconsin’s two seasons firsthand: detours/road construction and winter driving challenges.
David Brown, DVM - Vice President of Westby, Wis. Production Facilities Two years ago, David Brown joined Accelerated Genetics as the Staff Veterinarian, after owning a veterinary practice in Viroqua for 18.5 years. During that time, he also periodically worked with the cooperative’s bulls and staff members. Last year, he became the Vice President of Production Facilities.
Cooperative Corner
Randy Berger - Senior Customer Service Westby, Wis. Representative For nearly a quarter century, Randy Berger has worked for Accelerated Genetics. Primarily, he packs semen orders for sales representatives, A.I. technicians and distributors within the domestic market. Berger also sets up new trucks that go out to the field, which includes applying hazardous material labels and company decals, installing liquid nitrogen tanks and completing the truck with a topper to safely carry semen and products.
While much of his job today revolves around animal husbandry, as it did when he provided veterinary care for many animals in the Viroqua and Westby area, it also involves ongoing health testing, personnel management and budgetary matters. “This job provides me with a whole set of new challenges, especially considering today’s economic challenges,” he stated. Brown takes great pride in the many improvements, including nutrition, ventilation and stall comfort, made at the Production Facility during the past few years. These improvements have yielded healthier bulls that produce higher quality semen. Liliana Parker - International Customer Baraboo, Wis. Service Representative A native of Mexico City, Liliana Parker never imagined herself working with cows, bulls or semen sales. Before joining Accelerated Genetics 18 months ago, she worked for the Baraboo School District – helping Spanishspeaking students learn English in five different schools (kindergarten through 12th grade). Her husband, a Spanish teacher, received email from Accelerated Genetics – wondering if he knew anyone with Spanish-speaking skills who may want to work for the cooperative. He discussed this with Liliana, she applied and soon she was hired. Parker works closely with David Yarbrough, International Sales Manager, who oversees Accelerated Genetics sales in Central America and parts of South America. She takes orders, prepares account statements and regularly communicates (e-mail, letters and phone) with distributors and dairy producers in those areas. In addition, she translates written communications and prepares documents for exporting and importing. What does she like best about her job? Without hesitation, she replied, “Speaking Spanish!” Furthermore, she loves meeting people from other countries and traveling to Spanish-speaking countries with her husband. She is especially happy to be a part of the Accelerated Genetics team. And if taking orders and preparing export documents doesn’t sound interesting, consider this job assignment. During World Dairy Expo, she accompanied some of Accelerated Genetics’ guests from Central America on a shopping trip. Many of them needed to buy extra suitcases after they completed their shopping spree. Genetic Trends - April 2010
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Innovative Resources
Positively Impact Your Cows With Quality Haylage As the haylage harvesting season approaches, it is important to remember that the decisions that are made while harvesting this year’s crop will affect your cows and your farm for the next year. One of the simplest things that can be done to improve forage quality is to use a good silage inoculant. The use of silage inoculant can lead to a six to ten-fold return on your investment costs (return on investment will vary depending on current milk prices and specific farm situations). The net savings come from reducing the amount of feed lost to spoilage and an improvement in dry matter intake and feed quality from the reduction in spoilage and mold in feed. The thing to remember is while there could be as much as a ten-fold return on investment from using a silage inoculant, using inoculants is just the last step in all the things you can do to improve your farms forage quality.
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Genetic Trends - April 2010
So why did I make this statement about using a silage inoculant and it’s great investment opportunity? Simply because it is true. Inoculants will help save roughly 1.5-3% dry matter loss in a bunker, which can be small savings compared to what could be lost if proper forage management is not taking place. When a bunker is quickly filled, properly packed and correctly covered and sealed, dry matter loss could be less than ten percent. Poorly managed bunks, on the other hand, could have well over 30% dry matter loss. That means that just taking a little extra time to pack and correctly cover a bunker could save almost 20% of your forage. This doesn’t even account for all the molds, yeast and mycotoxins that are present due to poor fermentation that will have a major impact on the cows health and production. Saving time by cutting corners during the harvest could mean that almost
By: Dan Schreiner, product specialist one-third of everything that gets put in the bunk, will be completely wasted. Inoculants do work good on well managed bunkers, but they will also improved poorly managed forage. This doesn’t mean it is going to fix all of your haylage harvesting and storage problems. Using inoculants on a bunk with 33% dry matter loss, could decrease the loss to 30%; which still is better than it was before, but it also means that the forage quality is still poor. If you struggle putting up your forage and are looking for help, make sure that all of the following areas of concern are addressed before inoculant is ever utilized:
Correct Harvest Time: While the optimal time to harvest alfalfa haylage is in the pre-bud stage, when it is harvested depends mainly on the goals of the farm and how the forage will be used
accelensile forage inoculants produce the right types and amounts of organic acids, which act as an aid in the fermentation process of stabilization and the product packaging insures that all AccelEnsile inoculant contain live and viable bacteria specifically selected for the crop being ensiled. accelensile Benefits: Less dry matter loss, less heat damage, longer bunk life,improved preservation or feed value, increased dry matter intakes, improved milk production, and easier unloading and feedout. AccelEnsile is effective in all types of applicators and is available in both dry and wet applied formulas.
on the operation. To ensure a good packing density in bunkers, haylage should be 65% to 70% moisture and upright silos can be as dry as 60% moisture. Checking the whole plant moisture by drying it down in a microwave is probably the simplest method to determining moisture content. CHop LeNGtH: There is a fine line between having long enough particle length to promote a healthy rumen and keeping it short enough to pack the silage tight enough to reduce the amount of air in the pile. It is recommended that the theoretical length to cut is one inch. Optimal length of cut is 3/8�, which means that 15-20% of the particles will be longer than 1.5� in length. pACkiNG DeNSity: The more densely packed the haylage is, the quicker and more complete the fermentation of the silage will be, which reduces spoilage and dry matter loss. The packing tractor should be as heavy as possible to achieve good packing density. If filling rate is high a second pack tractor may be needed to ensure proper packing. Not only does a well packed bunker
improve fermentation, but more feed will be able to fit into the same sized bunker. FiLLiNG tiMe: The silage should be harvested, bunkers packed or silos filled and then sealed as quickly as possible to reduce the amount of air the silage is exposed to. SiLo CoveRS: Bunkers, piles and silos all need to be covered to prevent dry matter and nutrient loss. Forgetting to use a cover or delaying when a cover is placed on the silage exposes the feed to oxygen, which slows down to stops the fermentation process, especially the first few feet exposed to air.
iNNOvative resOurCes
invesTing in yOUr fOrages:
Correct harvesting, packing and covering are all top priorities when it comes to putting up good haylage. Even when everything is done right there can still be mold and yeast growth which leads to dry matter loss. Using a good inoculant is the final piece of the haylage harvesting puzzle to ensure that lactic acid is produced during the fermentation process, which will lower pH and reduce mold and yeast growth.
Genetic Trends - April 2010
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Sire Feature
Springing Forward With an Elite Shottle son By: Gregg Topp,
dairy sire analyst
JOMAR Micah 8081 GP-80 • JOMAR Holsteins/Oliveira Dairy • Hilmar, Calif. April 2010 proofs have arrived and the PACE program has planted a new graduate to improve the future genetic harvest in your herd. 014HO05300 End-Road Shottle Micah-ET has a balanced genetic profile from a deep, high production cow family and a unique sire lineup.
DFR Micah 18146 GP-80 Dairy Forage Research Center • Prairie du Sac, Wis. 10
Genetic Trends - April 2010
Micah’s Breeder: 014HO05300 Micah was bred by Duane & Janet Molhoek, End-Road Farms, Falmouth, Mich., located in the northern part of the state. They milk 125 cows and have been a successful supplier of top genetics around the world for many years. They farm over 500 acres and have developed multiple cow families that have helped to improve many herds in many parts of the state of Michigan. The Molhoek’s have been recognized as the Young Breeder of the year in the state of Michigan in 1999 and the Master Breeder in the state of Michigan in 2001.
Micah’s third dam is Very Good-85 with six lactations and lifetime totals over 173,000 milk, the fourth dam is Excellent-91 with five lactations and lifetime totals of 162,000 milk, and the fifth dam is the mother of former PACE graduate 014HO02254 Mitt. Micah’s full sister, End-Road Shottle Maze-ET, is classified Excellent-92 being Excellent in both Feet and Legs and Mammary System. She has a top record of 29,290 milk, 4.4% fat, 1296 pounds fat, 3.6% protein, and 1047 pounds protein. MiCAH’S SAMpLiNG: Genetic evaluations released in April show Micah’s production genomic evaluations with 93 daughters in 56 herds at 90% reliable and his type genomic evaluation with 39 daughters
in 29 herds at 84% reliable. He will add more milking daughters in future evaluations and the trend is positive. As a graduate of the PACE young sire program, Micah follows in the legacy of other great bulls such as Roebuck, Manfred, Sailor, Potter, Tredway, Marion, Airraid, Billion, Lon and Doug. MiCAH’S BReeDiNG pAtteRN: With this historic maternal line, a tremendous sampling and the monumental impact of his sire Shottle, Micah brings a great combination of production and type without Manfred, Goldwyn, Durham, or Bellwood Marshall bloodlines. Shottle, his sire, is a worldwide leader for total performance and is highly respected for his consistent type transmitting ability. Micah is a high milk Shottle son at +1455 PTAM who does not sacrifice butterfat at +45 PTAF or protein at +33 PTAP. At 84% reliable for type, he does not meet the requirement to be listed on the official Holstein Association TPI® list but as Shottle sons go Micah is among the best available and will be a sire of future PACE sires. His Type PTA’s are +1.86 type, +1.46 udder composite, and +1.11 foot and leg composite.
Parentage resolved By aJCa semen availaBle again From gratitude oFFsPring Accelerated Genetics is pleased to announce that semen is once again available on 014JE00431 Grieves, 014JE00481 Grover, 014JE00509 Liam, and 014JE00544 Dazzle. Accelerated Genetics suspended semen sales on these bulls pending action by the AJCA Board of Directors to resolve the parentage and registry status of Gratitude and her offspring. AJCA Board of Directors, at their March meeting adopted new rules that have expanded the Genetic Recovery program for both males and females. The registry status will change on approximately 5600 animals. Gratitude, the dam of 014JE00431 Grieves and 014JE00509 Liam is now recorded as an Original Animal (OA) in the Genetic Recovery program in the AJCA herd book. Through genomics it was determined that she is 83% Jersey blood. The cow is dead and the
only place her DNA was stored to do genomic testing was at Genetic Visions, Inc, Accelerated Genetics wholly-owned research subsidiary. Gratitude will have a prefix of OA attached to her name. Her sons and daughters will have PR (Provisional Register) attached to their names. The next generation will be GR (Genetic Recovery) and the next generation will be HR (Herd Registry). Once an animal reaches HR status they will no longer have any prefix attached to their name.
In addition his TPI of +1908G reinforces his ability to sire balanced offspring. Daughters of Micah are above average in stature and angular with adequate width and depth of body, a slight slope to the rump with wide rear ends. Feet and legs are another of his strengths as rear legs-side view and rear legs-rear view are ideal with a steep foot angle. Rear udders are high and wide, fore udders are well-attached and teat size is optimal. Micah mates very well on daughters of Goldwyn, Mr. Sam, Toystory, Lou, Boliver, Potter, Zenith, Champion, Airraid, Billion and Harry. His Service Sire Calving Ease of 8% also makes him a great option for heifer breeding programs.
sire Feature
MiCAH’S CoW FAMiLy: From a strong cow family Micah’s dam is a high milk Teamster daughter with a first lactation over 24,000 milk while classifying Very Good-85 with a Very Good Mammary System. His grandam is a 2E Excellent-90 Rubytom daughter with three elite records, lifetime totals over 118,00 milk as well as recognition as a Gold Medal Dam and Dam of Merit.
iN CoNCLuSioN: Breeding programs in 2010 are in need of genetic options and Shottle sons are the new kids on the block attracting much attention. 014HO05300 Micah is an outstanding choice to capitalize on Shottle’s genetic superiority through one of his finest sons. The result of using a bull with the balance and genetic strength of Micah can lift herds to new levels genetically and guarantee a bountiful harvest in the next generation. Keep yOUr COWs COOl: Bovine accellyte ii, ii with its unique formulation, helps restore electrolyte functions and water retention. Cows stay hydrated and on feed. Bovine accellyte ii can be used for both pre-hydrating (prior to stress) and re-hydrating (post stress) cattle. It contains electrolytes to replace those lost during stress, energy to provide an added boost when needed most, minerals needed to compensate for deficiencies from reduced feed intakes and vitamins necessary for life. Can be used as a drench, added to stock tanks or individual water feedings. It also can be dry-mixed into feeds for group or herd application.
014JE00431 Grieves and 014JE00509 Liam are PR (Provisional Register). When bred to HR cows the offspring will be GR (Genetic Recovery). Those offspring when bred to an HR animal will be HR with no prefix in their name. 014JE00481 Grover and 014JE00544 Dazzle are GR and when bred to HR cows the offspring will be HR with no prefix in Genetic Trends - April 2010
11
reprO CONNeCtiONs
mAnAg A EmEnt: Ag The Key fOr ferTiliTy sUCCess Accelerated Genetics commitment to higher quality product begins with bull care and involves detailed attention to every step of semen collection and processing, as well as maximum standards for semen quality control. For Accelerated Genetics, these efforts do not end in the processing laboratory, but continue through service and technical support to customers in order to maximize on-farm fertility results. In this regard, we {Accelerated Genetics} know that management and environmental factors account for about 96% of fertility variation in a dairy operation (Weigel, 2001). Our challenge is what are those factors effecting fertility and how do we help improve them? The answer to this question is too broad to summarize in this article, as it includes facilities, nutrition, overcrowding, semen handling, A.I. technique, etc. In this article, I will summarize challenging issues that our ReproConnections team frequently finds on U.S. dairy operations while conducting on-farm visits. It all comes down to prevention. When a fertility issue shows up in a farm, there is usually a common factor that is not related to individual cows. After reviewing all MiniMize The effeCTs Of sTress:
Tri-start is a direct-fed microbial that will help stimulate feed intakes and get your investments back to peak production. Use for adult dairy cows during periods of stress such as calving, vaccinations, feed changes, temperature extremes and illness.
12
Genetic Trends - April 2010
By: Dr. humberto rivera, m.S., reproDuctive SpecialiSt possible explanations at a dairy, we can The figures below, illustrate important classify the potential problems in one or physiological and nutritional reasons not to set more of the following three management a VWP earlier that 50 days in milk (DIM). It is areas: dry, fresh or transition pen; issues important to keep in mind that the cow needs affecting the entire herd; and recent to be gaining body weight or body condition changes. Please note that infectious diseases score to have good chances of conception. are not included in these areas, but they should be considered and discussed with You need to regularly review compliance your herd veterinarian. for the transition and fresh cow protocol and comfort in your farm to guarantee dry, fresh or Transition pen: that your cows are set to a good start. For Many fertility issues are nothing else but transition, such review involves separating the consequence of management errors, mature cows from first calving heifers, which occurred several weeks or months bedding pack space (>90-100 ft2/cow), dry prior. For example incidence of peripartum and clean bedding, ventilated areas with diseases or impact of negative energy proper airflow, feed bunk space (>3 feet/ balance (NEB) will affect fertility later on. cow), water drinkers (3-4 inches/cow) and Unfortunately, such negative effects on two plus drinkers per pen, and appropriate fertility won’t be noticed until cows are heat abatement systems. well advanced in lactation. For fresh cows, in addition to cow comfort Monitoring and striving for cow comfort and sorting by lactation group, you can during these periods is an effective way design you own protocol with assistance to guarantee high peak and persistency of of your herd veterinarian. In general, it lactation, healthy cows, and good fertility may include daily checks for 10-14 days to first insemination, given that voluntary for temperature, ketosis, dry matter intake waiting (VWP) period is appropriate. (DMI), milk production, mastitis, DA, There is a red flag that can be used to lameness, and uterine conditions (odor, monitor issues during dry, transition and fluids, etc); before they are moved to fresh cow group. production groups. Special care should be provided to cows of known high risk, such Monitoring fertility by number of as cows calving with twins, having dystocia, insemination usually gives you a good cows that are fat, etc. Your veterinarian indication if the cows are reaching first should decide the treatments to follow upon insemination at their maximum potential. the presentation of any of these conditions. Higher conception rate to second or greater For your cows, this is just like the pit garage insemination is usually associated with getting ready for a race car, so if you fail peripartum diseases or too early VWP. setting them right, they won’t perform.
Milk Yield, DM Intake, Energy Balance
50
650
40
630
30
610
20
590
10
570
0
550
-10 -20
0
50
100
150 200 Days In Milk
250
300
Attention to every detail provided during these periods, will have a tremendous impact at lessening the normal depression of DMI around calving, avoiding stress for competition (especially first calving heifers), avoiding the bacterial load the cow is being exposed to during a period of normal immune depression, etc.
the semen and the embryo if fertilization occurs. This condition can be diagnosed by testing for Milk Urea Nitrogen or Blood Urea Nitrogen. For these and other lab tests that can help rule out metabolic problems in you herd, like SARA, NEFAS, etc. see ReproConnections Insider Issue 2 on our website www.accelgen.com.
It has been demonstrated in several studies that depression of DMI is an important factor linked to a wide array of peripartum diseases leading to production and reproduction failure (Huzzey et al., 2007), thereby; any effort to avoid this drop in DMI will give the cow more chances for success. As you can imagine, all those factors related to cow comfort and stress will have a negative impact on DMI.
Similar to the section above, cow comfort also plays a critical role here. For example, there are some simple “chronic” problems that can affect heat expression, and increase embryonic loss. Often times heat stress is overlooked, and producers are always trying to find more complex explanations or probably reasons less expensive to fix. The negative effect of heat stress can be easily seen when pulling a fertility report by calendar month from a farm computer.
Issues Affecting The Entire Herd: It is interesting as a farm outsider that it is rather easy to see these type of mistakes. It seems like people get used to doing something incorrect over and over to the point they don’t see it as a mistake anymore – It becomes a normal practice! For example, thawing semen for 20-30 seconds instead of the recommended greater than 45 seconds is a common mistake in some South American countries. Of course they are getting some cows pregnant, but there is good number of pregnancies they are giving up by doing this. Yet, they don’t realize there is something wrong on the A.I. procedure and keep blaming the weather, the nutritionist or even an infectious disease. Another example is on over feeding protein, which increases the amount of urea in blood, creating a toxic environment for
Now, if on the top of that you add overcrowding, you are really hurting your production and reproduction performance. Remember, cow comfort and DMI go side by side, thus any factor affecting cow comfort affects, DMI and fertility. In general it is recommended less than 85% occupancy in transition and fresh cow pens, and no more than 100% in production groups. As far as heat abatement systems, consider that the holding area as first priority for fans and/ or sprinklers along with having fresh water available. Normally, cows will spend about 34 hours per day in the waiting area and the parlor standing, stressed, overcrowded, with no access to feed or water. A second priority is heat abatement systems on the feed alley, with the goal of increasing DMI to keep the cows going.
A third priority is the stalls to enhance resting. Cows need about 12 hours per day resting in the stalls. If they don’t feel comfortable lying in the stalls, they will prefer to stay standing in the alleys (higher risk of lameness) and sometimes lying in the alleys if there is better airflow than the stalls.
Repro Connections
670
Body Weight
60
Since cows should spend about 8 hours per day eating, another good strategy implemented by many producers in is putting rubber mats on the feed alley, so cows feel more comfortable while eating.
Recent Changes: Due to obvious reasons, these issues are typical of expanding herds, but are not exclusive to them. For example moving animals to new pens will require about a week for the new cow to find her hierarchy in the group, adapt to new herd mates, new environment and diet. Meanwhile her DMI will be depressed, affecting production and reproduction. As a result, it is not recommended to move cows between groups unless it is necessary. In addition, moving cows around calving should be avoided, and cows should be moved to transition group at least 3 or even 4 weeks before expected calving date. Nutritional changes are also important, but are not discussed here, since they are extremely herd-specific and should be tracked by your nutritionist. From the reproduction standpoint, most of the time these issues are related to particle size and development of SARA leading to laminitis, as well as depressed DMI or overfed protein. Never underestimate semen handling, A.I. procedure and heat detection accuracy. It is always a good idea to have an A.I. refresher course for all new and/or existing farm A.I. technicians. In summary, production and reproduction success begin prior to calving. Research has linked cow comfort and DMI to animal performance, so producers need to strive for cow comfort in order to enhance DMI to set cows for a good start. Achieving optimal cow comfort involves bedding cleanness, airflow, avoid overcrowding, availability of fresh feed and water 24/7, and separating mature cows from first lactation heifers. Monitor cows health and performance in early lactation and use lab tests whenever is considered necessary to diagnose metabolic diseases. Genetic Trends - April 2010
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500,000 uNit reCOGNitiON
chALLEngEs inspirE cottA cott on A dA d iLy L BAsis Ly
By: JoDee Sattler, Freelance writer “I don’t try to sell bulls that don’t fit the producer’s goals or breeding philosophy.” To be successful in sales, Cotta said you need to be a people person. Otherwise, you won’t get a lot done. “You have to like people,” he remarked.
Photo by: Kari Stanek
Cotta strives to visit one new dairy a month. When making cold calls, he recommends never going in with a bunch of books or flyers in your hands. “I just introduce myself and set up an appointment to review bulls in the future,” he explained. Standing with some of his customers is Independent Sales Representative Benny Cotta (fourth from left). He recently reached the 500,000 Unit Sales Award.
Whether it was dairy farming or working as a sales representative, Benny Cotta, San Luis Obispo, Calif., welcomes challenges. “I like a challenge,” he remarked. “I want the competition to fear my sales abilities.” Cotta’s expertise yielded him an outstanding sales achievement – the National Association of Animal Breeders 500,000 Unit Sales Award. It took him nine years to earn this honor. Accelerated Genetics Western Regional Sales Manager Matt Waters commented on Cotta’s success. “It is with great pleasure to be associated with Benny Cotta. His devotion and dedication to the A.I. industry and customers have proved invaluable in his ability to reach many milestones during his career.” In 1987, Benny sold his outstanding dairy herd (29,000 pounds of milk rolling herd average) in the herd buyout program. Steve Relves, a key California distributor, encouraged Cotta to consider joining the Accelerated Genetics sales team. He accepted the challenge and still enjoys his job today. “It’s a friendly industry,” Cotta commented. “And, it’s a very challenging business.” The friendships and challenges inspire and motivate him on a daily basis. In addition, Cotta described Accelerated Genetics as a “great employer.” “They’ve treated me well all these years.” 14
Genetic Trends - April 2010
Why has Cotta stayed with the cooperative for more than two decades? He responded, “If it’s not broke, why fix it?” Covering Central California, Cotta’s dairies average 1,000 cows – ranging from 200 cows to 10,000 cows. Most operations use dry lots or freestall barns. When it comes to customer relationships, Cotta strives to build his circle of friends. “I want all of my customers to be comfortable with me and my sales approach,” he stated. “I want them (customers) to be glad to see me.” It appears Benny has reached that goal. On a one-month sales route cycle, Cotta noted that he typically visits the same farms on the same days. “Customers express concern if I don’t show up on the usual day,” he explained. “They wonder if something happened to me. I appreciate their concern.” Quite pleased with Accelerated Genetics’ bull lineup over the past 10 years, Cotta said customers respect him for his knowledge of A.I. sires and the dairy industry. “It’s not what you’re selling, but who you are,” he stated. “While I couldn’t sell my customers the ‘London Bridge,’ they do listen to me.” Some clients allow Cotta to select the sires ffor their dairy herds. “I know what bulls a dairy producer wants before I go on the dairy,” Cotta noted.
To summarize, Benny said “friendships” are the most rewarding aspect of his career. He enjoys golfing and watching football with some of these friends.
point & shoot For thE 2010 photo contEst How many pictures have you taken for the 2010 Accelerated Genetics Photo Contest? Well if you haven’t started yet, there is still time for you to capture photos for this year’s two themes. ‘Change of Seasons’ and ‘youth y youth in Action’. For ‘Change of Seasons’ take pictures of calves, heifers or cows in the various seasons throughout the year. For ‘Youth In Action’, take ACTION photos of youth working or playing with calves, heifers or cows. The entry deadline is SEPTEMBER 1, 2010! Digital Images are preferred and need to be sent as a high resolution (300 dpi) JPEG image with photo size at 8” x 10” or larger. Digital images can be send via email or on a CD. For each photo entered, please include: Photographer’s name, address, phone, location photo was taken, photo title and photo category. Send entries to: Accelerated Genetics, Attn: Kari Stanek, E10890 Penny Lane, Baraboo, WI 53913 or email kstanek@accelgen.com. For questions, please call 800.451.9275.
Each year people of all ages are injured, become ill or even die as a result of activities on farms. Almost all of those situations could have been prevented with greater awareness and planning. This article will help farm managers/parents prepare a safe, rewarding work environment on the farm. Young and new workers must be supervised to ensure they understand safety rules and are capable of performing the tasks assigned to them. The adults in the family will reinforce their safety and health practices and set the standard for making the farm a safe, successful operation, making safety and heath provisions for all. The best place to start creating a safety plan is by choosing an area you feel has the greatest risk to your employees and family. Once you have a plan for this area, go on to the next area of concern. There are three basic steps to a safer farm for you, your employees and your family: Step 1: Understand the different skills and abilities of the people on your farm. Step 2: Assess the hazards on the farm with the people who may be exposed to them. Step 3: Ensure everyone is aware of the hazards and can do their jobs safely. This includes: equipment, materials and environment. As you walk though your farming operation, everyone should share in the learning and awareness process. • Create a list of tasks (chores) that might be suitable for various family members and employees (don’t forget to list those areas where young, new or older workers might have to be accompanied by a more experienced or able-bodied person). • Make a sketch or plan of the work yard and workshop and other areas requiring precautions. • Update your inventory of hazardous products and review who should be handling them – consider getting or making warning signs for areas that present exceptional hazards – that includes need for safety glasses in the shop. Step 1 See what your family members see – bridge the gap. We all see the same things. However, we perceive them differently, depending on past experience and knowledge.
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Saftey Alert Symbol! This symbol was created to draw attention to the need for safety. It means: Attention! Become Alert! Your Safety Is Involved! The ability to recognize a potential hazard comes from awareness. We are more likely to anticipate results if we, or someone we know, have experienced similar circumstances. Three elements must interact in order for an incident to occur: object, or a source of energy; environment with unstable conditions; and a person. For example, if you have an unsecured dual wheel from a tractor (the object) leaning against a wall (the environment) and you add a child (the person) playing hide and seek between the wheel and the wall, you have all three required elements for a potential incident. The probability of an incident occurring would be greatly reduced if the wheel was secured not to move and the child not permitted to play in that area. To assess potential hazards on the farm, it’s important to understand the abilities of children and employees. Step 2 Watch for hazards – know the risks. A hazard is a condition or object that has the potential to cause damage or threaten your personal safety. These conditions may seem familiar to you and you may intuitively take precautions to protect yourself. But, they are not obvious or understood by children. The five different categories of hazards are: Physical: A physical hazard includes any object that has the potential to cause physical injury. This includes energy sources such as heat, electricity, pressurized air, liquids, noise and vibrations. Chemical: Chemical hazards may result in poisoning or burns, or may interfere with body functions such as breathing.
Biological: Allergic reactions, infections and health conditions can result from exposure to biological materials. Biological materials include animal dander, manure, cold and flu viruses, blood and body fluids from animals, humans, insects, etc.
Farm Safety Tips
safe Choices Farm Walkabout Guide
Ergonomic: The interaction between a person and the work they are doing can place undue stresses on the body, which can cause ergonomic problems. For example, a five-foot tall person, having to bend over a 30-inch partition repeatedly, or having to lift objects over that wall would be exposed to an ergonomic hazard. Psychosocial: Emotional pressures and changes in lifestyle can create psychosocial hazards. For example: having to work until 2:00 a.m. every night for a week to meet a production deadline, could cause psychosocial issues. If you are preoccupied with getting the job done and not physically alert because your body is accustomed to resting at 11:00 p.m., fatigue can increase the potential for injury or illness. Step 3 Manage the risk – control the hazard. A risk management plan can help you reduce the chance of someone being injured by hazards on your farm by: Controlling the hazard at the source; Controlling the hazard along the path; and Controlling the hazard at the worker’s level. The best way to determine the risks associated with a job is to break the job down into manageable steps and then identify potential hazards in each step. 1. Initial Safety Analysis: Analyze individual job people do on the farm. 2. Break the Job Down into Steps: Identify each step to a task into a logical sequence. 3. Identify Potential Hazards in each Step: Consider people, equipment, materials and environment to see if hazards exist. 4. Eliminate and Control Hazardous Situations: Conduct an improvement check to see if work can be done better by making changes in structure, planning, innovation and worker involvement. 5. Making Changes: Determine actions and precautions that will prevent, or minimize the effect of, a potential loss. 6. Evaluation: Ensure all control measures you implement are evaluated on the basis of effectiveness. Genetic Trends - April 2010
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Two New Bulls. Just Your Type!
P
014HO05411
Alermo
GOlDwyn x VG-89 RUDOlPh x VG-87 FORmATIOn
Extreme Type Sire +3.31 PTAT Great Udders +2.71 UDC Elite TPI +2008 GTPI Outstanding Frames
hillcrest Palermo 23035 GP-80
DFR micah 18146 GP-80
m
014HO05300
icAh
ShOTTlE x VG-85 TEAmSTER x Ex RUbyTOm
Great Production Sire +1455 m, +45 F, +33 P high Type +1.86 PTAT Calving Ease Sire Dairy Frames with Depth and width Outstanding TPI +1908 GTPI
L-R: Creekside Palermo 44 GP-81, JOMAR Micah 8081 GP-80. Frank Robinson photos. Source: 04/10. USDA, HA Genomic. Palermo: 86%R Prod., 78%R Type. Micah: 90%R Prod., 84%R
800.451.9275 • www.accelgen.com