April 2014 Genetic Trends

APRIL 2014

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF ACCELERATED GENETICS

OUR VISION

TO BE THE PRODUCER’S TRUSTED FIRST CHOICE Robotic Milking

Genomic Testing

The Transition Zone

Sire Summary

The Official Publication of Accelerated Genetics April 2014 Vol. 66 No. 1 EDITORS Angie Lindloff Kari A. Stanek Kate Welter ADMINISTRATIVE HEADQUARTERS E10890 Penny Lane Baraboo, WI 53913 Phone: 1-800-451-9275 or 608-356-8357 Fax: 608-356-4387 Email: info@accelgen.com Website: www.accelgen.com Find us on Facebook: Accelerated Genetics Follow us on Twitter: @AccelGen

ON THE COVER Accelerated Genetics focuses on providing quality genetics to all types of operations and all types of breeds.

We are your SOURCE for Jersey genetics. See story on page 15.

FEATURES 4 OUTSTANDING RESULTS Robotic Milkers by: Chelsey Johnson 6 GENOMIC TESTING The Future of Genomic Testing by: Mandy Brazil 8 ANIMAL HEALTH PRODUCTS Cow Transition by: Jill Strangstalien

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

Visit www.accelgen.com today!

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

BIG ENOUGH TO SERVE YOU...

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

SMALL ENOUGH TO KNOW YOU

This past fiscal year has been, without a doubt, one of significant adversity and constant challenge for all in the agricultural industry. From extreme weather conditions, to government regulations, to high feed costs, our industry was constantly under attack. But, yet, collectively, we possess the most amazing job in the world and that is feeding this great nation of ours. And, to that, we can all be proud.

Accelerated Genetics was not immune to the challenges faced this past year in the overall industry and therefore we will need to tighten our bootstraps.

But you can be assured your cooperative and those who have made it their career are standing at the ready to serve and assist you in all facets of your business. Throughout this issue of Genetic Trends you’ll see just how committed we are to helping you achieve success from the quality of sires available to a second-to-none animal health product line to service that goes above and beyond. Accelerated Genetics is large enough to serve you, yet small enough to know you.

Let me share some very special things your cooperative has been involved with since my last message to you.

In late January, Accelerated Genetics conducted its 2nd Annual Cooperative Initiative.

Still in an infant stage, the purpose of this two-day event is for delegates to collectively gather and (1) conduct necessary cooperative business, and (2) partake in learning sessions covering various topics from world economic issues to the importance of using social media in promoting agriculture.

It also offers a chance for participants to network with fellow ag supporters as well as the Accelerated Genetics team of professionals. Those who attended the past two years have come away with nothing less than a renewed vigor for their profession. Realizing the magnitude this event has played on prior attendees, the board of directors has unanimously agreed to extend an open invitation to all Accelerated Genetics patrons!

Consider it in your plans to attend next year and save the date, January 20 & 21, 2015 at Three Bears Lodge, Warrens, Wis. Check out http://tiny.cc/ CI_2015 to catch a glimpse of this past year’s highlights.

Our continued emphasis on the beef market has certainly paid off as we experienced yet another record-setting year in the history of Accelerated Genetics. With the acquisition of Nebraska Bull Service (NBS),

McCook, Nebraska, the plan is for 2013-14 to be a banner year for beef sales. NBS gives us the opportunity to consolidate most of our beef bulls into one location and to manage our bulls and semen processing.

We will also continue to promote and support custom bull collections. With this in mind, we began phase one of expansion at NBS with the addition of a new barn to house another 30 bulls in individual pens and a new Certified Semen Service (CSS) collection facility.

Our goal for NBS is twofold, (1) to house and collect our own bulls and have them on display for our customers to view, and (2) to be the best custom collection facility in the U.S. This is just a start of what your cooperative has planned to help you achieve success. Our vision remains true – “To be the producer’s trusted first choice.” Our brand promise also continues to focus on our PEOPLE, the best in the industry, our PRODUCTS, which are second-to-none, and the PRIDE we display. Every Accelerated Genetics employee knows ultimately your success translates to ours. That is why when we say…no matter how big or small, Accelerated Genetics is large enough to serve you, yet small enough to know you, we mean it.

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

JOEL GROSKREUTZ President & CEO

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

OUTSTANDING RESULTS

OUTSTANDING RESULTS ROBOTIC MILKERS: THE NEXT GENERATION Story by: Chelsey Johnson, Former Accelerated Genetics Communications Intern

Technology in the dairy industry is moving at a fast pace, but Accelerated Genetics takes pride in being big enough to serve you, yet small enough to know you—regardless of operation type.

The popular phrase among dairy farmers, “the cows won’t milk themselves,” is turning obsolete since Automatic Milking Systems, commonly called robotic milkers, are becoming more of a household idea.

Dennis Cline, Accelerated Genetics District Sales Representative, is now providing semen or animal health products to 12 robot herds in his district.

“Many of these herds have put a greater emphasis on teat placement in their breeding program and Accelerated Genetics has sires to meet that need,” Cline explained.

One of these herds, Jo-Lane Farms near Monona, Iowa, owned by Lance and Jonna Schutte, installed two Lely A4 robots and began utilizing this technology on January 8, 2013. Initially, due to the increased number of 4 > GENETIC TRENDS > APRIL 2014

milkings that the robots allowed, production increased 20 lbs. per cow.

While the cows may be “milking themselves,” cow health and production are still largely determined by how a dairy herd is managed.

More than a year later, the Schuttes are still

“

from production, the robots also provide opportunity to improve the reproduction program.

“Our cows are showing better heats in the free stall facility,” explained Jonna. Prior to installing the robot system, the Schuttes were milking in an 84-cow tie-stall barn.

Many of these herds have put more emphasis on teat placement in their breeding program and Accelerated Genetics has sires to meet that need...”

enjoying enhanced milk production from their Brown Swiss, Holstein, and Ayrshire herd. Today, each cow is milked by a robot an average of three times per day. Aside

“The availability of information on activity, rumination, and milk temperature the robot provides has also helped improve our reproduction and overall management,” Jonna added.

Quality genetics are key to the success of any herd—regardless of facility or management

style. Therefore, when the Schuttes transitioned from their tie-stall facility to free stall housing and installed a robotic milking system, they did not make major breeding program adjustments.

“Our breeding program is not something we are changing,” Jonna explained. “We have always selected sires that have quality numbers for GTPI and functional traits. Since we have bred quality functional cows, our herd responded well to the robots.

Overall, herd health and hoof care is better than ever.”

The Schuttes are confident in the service they have received from Accelerated Genetics to ensure they continue to breed ideal cows for their robot system.

“Dennis does a great job and we know we can rely on him,” states Jonna. “He always makes sure we get what we need.”

Another herd entering the world of robots is Northeast Iowa Community College (NICC) Dairy Center. Last December, NICC installed two Lely robots, one designed for Holsteins and another designed for Jerseys. This operation is unique in that it is designed to provide education for dairy students, producers, and consumers.

“We wanted the ability to showcase our latest technology.

The facility is designed to give a good image to consumers who want to learn more and provides an example for producers who want to see this type of operation,” explained Dave Lawstuen, Chair of Dairy Operations.

Since installing the robot, Lawstuen has discovered some needs for focus in the NICC genetics program. Through conversations with Accelerated Genetics Regional Program Specialist, Carla Stetzer, who mates the herd with the GEM Mating Program, he has defined breeding goals for both the Holstein and Jersey robot herds.

“We have realized that emphasis needs to be put on stature for the Jersey herd,” explained Lawstuen.

“We are concerned by the third and fourth lactation, udder depth may be a problem for the robot.

By focusing more on stature, we may be able to improve this” On the other hand, Lawstuen noted the robots have no problem handling larger Holstein cows.

The dairy center also runs a conventional parlor, where more of their commercial-type cows are milked. Lawstuen explained the robot herd serves as a showcase

Northeast Iowa Community College Dairy Center features two robotic milker systems.

Northeast Iowa Community College students walk the aisle during an open house featuring their newly installed robotic milker systems.

of cows displaying high performance, quality udders, and individuals that classify well for the robot facility.

“Growing up with a registered background, I wondered how robotic milking could work for a registered herd,” explained Lawstuen. “I am convinced it is an ideal setting since the facility design allows for display of the herd and the robot works best with cows that have proper teat placement and udder depth.”

While Lawstuen noted that it will take time for their breeding changes to appear in the herd, he is confident in his relationship with Accelerated Genetics and the results from the GEM Mating Program sire selection.

Lawstuen noted he uses GeneForce sires heavily in their Holstein herd, plus they use many Access sexed semen sires in the Jersey herd. In addition, Accelerated Genetics is working with the NICC Dairy Center to implement a program that mates the high end of the Holstein herd with sexed semen and the low end of the herd with beef semen.

“We have a really nice partnership with Accelerated Genetics,” Lawstuen said. “I feel I can trust a farmer-owned cooperative. I have nothing but good things to say about our relationship.”

Scan this QR code and see sires for robotic milkers.

Northeast Iowa Community College has a robotic milker system specifically for a Jersey herd.

APRIL 2014 < GENETIC TRENDS < 5

GENOMIC TESTING

THE FUTURE OF GENOMIC TESTING IN DAIRY HERDS Story by Mandy Brazil, Program Services Coordinator

Protect your future in the dairy industry with a profitable group of replacement heifers utilizing genomic testing along with your breeding program.

Measuring future return on investment is one of the most powerful metrics businesses can use to evaluate viability moving forward. Predictive return analysis provides some stability for industries with high levels of market variability. From both the input and output price perspectives, the dairy industry fits this category with fluctuation in milk and feed prices.

Producers need to evaluate operations for risk areas and approach protection methods where possible. The future return on investment from the market standpoint may be uncertain, but assessing the performance of future herd replacements before the initial investment in raising expenses makes sense. Operations can use genomic testing for females to make informed decisions of where to place their investment in future herd profitability.

While USDA has not yet created a crystal ball for predicting a dairyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future gross margin, researchers have developed an affordable and reliable method for strategizing where to invest in future herd replacements. The economic logic for utilizing genomic evaluations in commercial female settings is real. Gauge female performance before investing in unprofitable replacements.

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Contrary to popular press regarding how genomic testing has made the greatest impact on the industry from the sire selection standpoint, dairies can see the highest gain and realize the greatest benefit on the herd level from female genomic testing. Applying genomic data to breeding program decisions can result in tremendous gains for accelerating genetic progress.

Depending on annual needed replacement rate, the cost of testing all or majority of heifers born can be economically justified from the gain in genetic value and lifetime profitability.

Since the introduction of genomic evaluations, the Holstein breed has seen an increase of about $80 per year in average net merit value. According to Dr. Paul VanRaden of USDA/AIPL, an increase in NM$ of $90 per year is realistic. This advancement is an example of how powerful the shorter generation interval is at creating higher profit animals. Producers now have higher reliability in replacement heifer selection, instead of primarily relying on sire selection for genetic advancement.

Heifers in a herd are going to be the most genetically valuable animals because they are one generation further along in progress. Pre-screening for future high performers gives the ability to shorten generation intervals with heifer donor selection for ET or IVF procedures. Creating more replacements from the highest heifers in the herd will increase the average

genetic value of replacements in just one generation. Other breeding program strategies include using sexed semen on the top heifers to increase the number of future replacement heifers from genetically higher heifers.

On the opposite side, sorting for cull heifers with lower predicted performance will save your investment dollars from being spent on low return cattle. Another approach, if herds are needing all or a majority of their replacements to enter the herd to maintain capacity, is to breed these to beef semen or use as recipients from high profit heifer flushes. Either way, the herd genetic value average will increase for the two-year-olds entering the stalls and for subsequent generations.

Every female is a potential dam of a replacement heifer; make her a profitable one. If producers can’t grow larger due to limited space and resources within an operation, they need to strive for efficiency. Growing profitability from a genetics standpoint in replacement heifer groups is one of the most efficient places to experience this gain.

Producers who are expanding through purchasing groups of replacement heifers with limited record availability can use genomic testing to obtain a more accurate idea of the type of heifers being brought home. Even with some pedigree information, genomic evaluations combined with pedigrees is a much more reliable predictor of the group’s performance.

According to Dr. Albert De Vries, of the University of Florida, the average NM$ breeding values for heifer calves have a 34% reliability, with a full paternal and maternal pedigree, being ranked with traditional values and 67% reliability ranked with genomic evaluations.

with a mating program that protects for these, allows carrier sires who offer profitable mating matches in non-carrier females, rather than to completely avoid these sires. The benefit from reducing losses in abortions and shortening days open intervals is a strong gain from genomic evaluations on replacement heifers. Genetics can advance aggressively, but still protect for recessive dangers.

Parentage verification, an aspect of genomic testing, will provide true inbreeding levels, as well as help producers with data management. In turn, helping to more correctly identify heifers they believe to be elite based off pedigree and dam performance compared to herdmates.

The larger a herd, the more calves being born each day, and the greater the opportunity for calves to be misidentified at birth. According to VanRaden in 2013, more than 50,000 misidentified sires were discovered in genomic sample submissions.

The potential applications for improved herd management are still being actively pursued in today’s research. A focus is being placed on hopefully discovering genetic correlation to dairy cattle health traits. The health traits currently in the midst of being researched include a high health immune response for reliability in disease immunity and hoof health traits. Other novel health traits being developed for genetic correlation include a feed efficiency index, heat stress measurement and methane emissions.

As with all new management systems, it takes time to adapt strategies to utilize information. The dairy industry will continue making steps in the right direction at a faster pace towards the commercial producer’s ideal

Mating heifers using genomic evaluations not only increases the reliability of the mating, but also allows for higher protection against costly recessive genetic mismanagement. Managing the frequency of genetics,

barn cow. Be part of that movement and protect your future in the dairy industry with a profitable group of replacement heifers.

APRIL 2014 < GENETIC TRENDS < 7

COW TRANSITIONS

GAME WINNING SOLUTIONS FOR THE TRANSITION ZONE Story by Jill Strangstalien, Animal Health Products Manager

The TRANSITION ZONE can be simple with a game plan. Accelerated Genetics has products that focus on reproductive performance, herd health and adding profitability to your bottom line.

The TRANSITION ZONE is a key event in your cow’s reproductive cycle.

It’s a critical period during which numerous abrupt changes can add stress to your herd, posing a significant threat to it’s overall performance.

Transition challenges include change in environment and social group, ration, feed intakes, calving, and metabolic disorders. Managing the TRANSITION ZONE is critical to reach your goals. Following are three products that should be part of your game plan!

IMPROVE FEED INTAKE Tri-Mic 1:50 implants live beneficial microbes to assist in breaking down feed; thus maximizing utilization. In addition to being continuously important throughout a cow’s lifecycle, it is especially adventageous when challenges such as mold, mycotoxins, depressed intakes from calving or heat stress, or poor digestible feeds push microbe numbers down. High rumen efficiency throughout the entire TRANSITION ZONE is essential.

IMPROVE DIGESTION Calving is a stressful moment. It’s an event at which time an extra boost is the answer! A highly concentrated source of beneficial microbes, Tri-Start, repopulates a cow’s rumen and assists to reboot rumen fermentation and aid in getting her back on full feed faster.

IMPROVE ENERGY LEVELS AFTER CALVING Reduced appetite, milk fever, ketosis, and retained placentas risk a cow’s smooth transition into lactation. FreshenUp (a sports drink for dairy cows) contains a combination of four sources of calcium, electrolytes and energy. Freshen Up is designed to boost levels of yeast, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and niacin, all essential nutrients reduced during calving. FreshenUp aids in the recovery process and assists in the preparation for the demands of lactation. Don’t overlook this critical time when there’s a lot on the line!

Accelerated Genetics has developed three protocols to complement any transition program. The outline on the next page serves as a guide to determine product usage and application. Developed with a traffic signal correlation, GO-YIELD-STOP, simply follow the color coding in selecting a program for your transition animals. It is vitally important you take action to prepare your herd for transition. It assures confidence and offers your herd an opportunity to perform productively.

ACCELERATED GENETICS’ TRANSITION PROGRAM HAS GAME WINNING RESULTS: Higher Profit Improved Reproductive Performance Enhanced Overall Herd Health

The RED “STOP” PROGRAM is a protocol for herds experiencing multiple trials. Issues may vary slightly in severity; however, include high levels of metabolic disorders, feed quality and digestive challenges, minimal herd health and reproduction concerns.

The YELLOW “YIELD” PROGRAM is focused to assist herds that need to exercise “caution.” These operations have an increase in metabolic disorders, herd health challenges, reduced first service conception rates and milk production concerns.

The GREEN “GO” PROGRAM is structured for herds experiencing low metabolic disorders, normal feed intakes and good milk production. This program is designed for herds that are operating with overall minimal daily concerns; however, with a constant goal to improve and maximize production and reproduction.

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ACCELERATED GENETICS TRANSITION PROGRAM Green Program For herds with low metabolic disorders, normal feed intake and average milk production

Yellow Program For herds with increased metabolic disorders, herd health concerns, low first service conception rates and milk production concerns

Red Program For herds with high levels of metabolic disorders, feed quality and digestive concerns, minimal herd health, and reproductive concerns.

Tri-Mic 1:50

Feed 1/3 oz. per head per day or mix 1 lb. per 50 cows into TMR or mixed grain for 21 days before calving through 21 days post calving.

Feed 2/3 oz. per head per day or mix 1 lb. per 25 cows into TMR or mixed grain for 21 days before calving.

Feed 1/3 oz. per head per day or mix 1 lb. per 50 cows into TMR or mixed grain from calving through breeding.

Feed 2/3 oz. per head per day or mix 1 lb. per 25 cows into TMR or mixed grain for 21 days before calving.

Feed 1/3 oz. per head per day or mix 1 lb. per 50 cows into TMR or mixed grain for entire lactation.

Tri-Start

1 bolus immediately after calving.

Repeat 12 hours later.

1 bolus immediately after calving.

Repeat 12 hours later.

1 bolus immediately after calving.

Repeat 12 hours later.

FreshenUp

Offer free choice by mixing 1 lb.

(454 gr) with 5 gallons (19 liters) of lukewarm water or provide as a drench by mixing 1 lb.

(454 gr) with at least 1 pint (.5 liters) of lukewarm water.

Offer free choice by mixing 1 lb.

(454 gr) with 5 gallons (19 liters) of lukewarm water or provide as a drench by mixing 1 lb.

(454 gr) with at least 1 pint (.5 liters) of lukewarm water.

Offer free choice by mixing 1 lb.

(454 gr) with 5 gallons (19 liters) of lukewarm water or provide as a drench by mixing 1 lb.

(454 gr) with at least 1 pint (.5 liters) of lukewarm water.

Supplemental Nutrition for Challenging Periods These products are designed to assist during periods of intense stress such as health and environmental challenges, poor reproductive health, and feed challenges.

Top dress or mix into TMR at a rate of 1 oz. per head per day or 6 lbs. per 100 cows.

Bovine Accellyte II

Fresh Pen: Offer to all cows in the fresh pen.

Sick or Special Needs: 1-2 oz. per day to help maintain hydration and improve recovery and feed intakes.

Heat Stress: Begin feeding 3-4 days before heat stress conditions appear and continue through the stressful period.

Tri-Start

Administer 1 capsule to any heifer, cow, steer or bull that is off feed or during periods of stress or environmental challenges.

MXL-600

Use at first sign of moldy feed, reduced feed intakes, excessive sorting of feeds, cows eating dirt, open heifers with swollen udders, low disease resistance (cows taking a long time for recovery or unfavorable antibiotic responses), or poor reproductive efficiency.

Tri-Mic 1:50

Hospital Pen or Feed Challenges: Feed 2/3 oz. per head per day or mix 1 lb. per 25 cows into TMR or mixed grain.

HOW DO YOU GET YOUR HERD STARTED? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s simple! Contact your local Accelerated Genetics Representative or call 1-800-451-9275.

Additional product information is available on our website: www.accelgen.com. In addition to the products included in the GO-YIELD-STOP programs, Accelerated Genetics offers a complete portfolio of specialty products for cows and calves. Check us out!

APRIL 2014 < GENETIC TRENDS < 9

REPRODUCTION

®

SETTING GOALS FOR YOUR HERD WITH REPRO CONNECTIONS ®

Story By: Kate Welter, Communications Coordinator

Understanding the importance of a good reproduction program is key to running a profitable operation. Reproduction is the driving force behind production and profitability. Accelerated Genetics is focused on developing a reproduction program for your operation that will ultimately increase your bottom line.

Every operation has a different reproduction program, but there is always room to grow efficiencies and establish goals. Even if your operation is already meeting your reproduction expectations, it is important to set goals that exceed your expectations ensuring your future.

ACCELERATED GENETICS REPRO CONNECTIONS®: 1. Define your herd’s reproduction goals.

2. Introduce reproductive strategies that work for you.

3. Utilize data analysis tools to help monitor reproduction.

4. Assess goals, design an action plan and monitor results.

5. Train on-farm personnel.

With these goals in mind, ReproConnections Specialists do a site visit to better understand your operation. After a complete viewing and collection of data from your current management software, experts then will offer solutions based off of your goals. The benefit of this value-added program is you are in control and Accelerated Genetics is the means to put your reproduction goals into action.

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Following are two farms who’ve successfully participated in the ReproConnections Program. Hear what they have to say about the benefits they have witnessed with their herds.

KENEALY FARMS “Before I started working with Accelerated Genetics’ ReproConnections program, our pregnancy rate was low (compared to industry standards). In less than one year on the program, our farm experienced pregnancy rates that more than doubled,” said Jeff Kenealy, co-owner of Kenealy Dairy Farms, Cadott, Wis. Kenealy has been working with District Sales Representative Darin Klevgard since last September to analyze his herd, assess the farm’s goals, and monitor the results. “We set up certain shot programs to meet his goals and expectations,” said Klevgard. “By following up every 3-4 months, we monitor how things are working, and make sure the program is being followed. At that time, we decide if adjustments need to be made.”

Kenealy Dairy Farms has found the ReproConnections program to be very successful. He credits his technician, Ted Peterson, and the sound advice he receives from Klevgard.

BURNSIDE DAIRY Understanding the importance of a good reproduction program is key to running a profitable business. Burnside Dairy, Durand, Wis. is an 1,800-acre dairy with a herd size of 1,140 Holstein cows. This operation trusts Accelerated Genetics utilizing different programs, products and a reliable technician to continue to grow their family business.

“We’ve been an Accelerated Genetics customer forever, for more than 20 years,” said Jason Weisenbeck, Burnside Dairy. “We utilize the reproduction programs they offer, as well as several Animal Health Products like their milk replacer, Tri-Start and Tri-Purify.” Up until a year and a half ago, Weisenbeck was responsible for all the herds’ breeding.

Today, they use an Accelerated Genetics technician do their servicing.

“Adam (Pecinovsky) is the first off-the-farm person to breed the animals,

and he’s doing a great job. He takes the extra time to do the little things that are going to make a big difference in the long run,” said Weisenbeck.

IMPLEMENT AN ACTION PLAN The ReproConnections program features a team of individuals trained in assisting herds to maximize reproductive efficiency and success. This team works with veterinarians, nutritionists and herd managers to develop successful programs based on individualized needs and goals.

Once the producer decides they want to utilize the Accelerated Genetics ReproConnections program, specialists will come to your operation to consult with all members of your dairy team. Each team member has a special importance to develop protocols and guidelines based on each members expertise to help create your herd’s reproduction goals.

ReproConnections is a program from Accelerated Genetics with proven results. Contact your local Accelerated Genetics representative today to successfully moniotor your reproduction program and increase your bottom line.

STEPS TO REPRODUCTIVE SUCCESS: Below is a flow chart to follow and help develop a successful reproductive program for your herd.

These areas affect the daily operation of every herd and should be considered by all operations. By utilizing Accelerated Genetics ReproConnection® program, you can monitor and measure all aspects of your operation to ensure production and reproduction goals are met.

REPRODUCTIVE PROGRAM DESIGN: TRANSITION PERIOD DRY & FRESH COW MANAGEMENT VOLUNTARY WAITING PERIOD

REVIEW: MAKE ADJUSTMENTS SET NEW GOALS ASSIGN RESPONSIBILITIES

RECORDS & DATA MANAGEMENT: ACCURATE COMPUTER RECORDS UP-TO-DATE INFORMATION DATA ANALYSIS & COMPARISON To national benchmarks & goals

BREEDING STRATEGY:

Steps to Reproductive Success

HEAT DETECTION Visual & Tail Chalk Cow Scout (Activity Monitor) SYNCHRONIZATION

AI SKILLS: HEAT DETECTION & TAIL CHALK SEMEN HANDLING AI TECHNIQUE APRIL 2014 < GENETIC TRENDS < 11

SIRE SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS

Triangle-M Pirate 4582 GP-83 VG-MS Triangle-M Dairy Ranch, Chowchilla, CA

2nd Lactation: Neldell Favre 2076 GP-84 Neldell Farms LLC, Wisconsin Dells, WI

GENETICS FOR EVERY HERD Story By: Dave Erf, Sire Analyst

The April Sire Summary brought a range of excitement to Accelerated Genetics. After this long, hard winter, bright and warm news is well accepted. A combination of exciting new releases, improving second crop sires and rise in some key recent releases all made this sire summary one to remember.

A highlight was the improvement of PACE favorite 014HO06344 PIRATE. He added many daughters for production and type, resulting in a TPI increase to +2049. His major increase came on the type side as he jumped up to +3.26 PTAT. Don’t miss the chance to add his elite genetics to your herd!

Another high type favorite at Accelerated Genetics is 014HO06047 FAVRE. At +3.22 PTAT, he is also among the best of the breed. In addition, his sire calving ease improved significantly with more data.

Second crop success seemed to be contagious as 014HO05359 CARS, 014HO05399 KOLTON and 014HO05560 EMERALD all added data and showed solid improvement overall. Their success reinforces the value of the PACE program identifying top genetics.

Big movers from the last proofs run include 014HO05962 ROYCE and 014HO06449 REST. Royce improved on production and health traits that resulted in a gain of +37 Net Merit. Don’t miss out on this Baxter son from an Ito dam to help the type and production of your herd. 014HO06449 REST improved on production and type and is our high NM$ bull at +637.

High TPI 014HO06429 MAN-O-MAN2 and 014HO05936 DOM*BY continue their status as sources of elite total performance.

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Seven new PACE graduates joined the active lineup this sire summary.

Two Man-O-Man sons from the same family made the grade and can now be called active sires. 014HO06494 HE-MAN is from a Very Good Goldwyn dam and an Excellent Champion. He was +2.53 PTAT, +50 Fat, +47 Protein and is a great calving ease sire at 6.3%. Look for him to sire beautiful udders that generate lots of profit. 014HO06498 ENRY is also a Man-O-Man from a Very Good Goldwyn dam that is a full sister to He-Man’s dam. Enry sires a nice balance of type, production and health traits. Both sires originate from Cookiecutter Holsteins herd. This family is putting solid daughter data on top of high genomic estimates.

014HO06434 PRESIDIUM*BY is our high NM$ new release. At +621 NM$, he ranks near the top of our list. He is a Prentice from a Very Good O-Man and then an Excellent Ramos. Presidium combines great components, super health traits and outstanding udders.

Are you looking for some sires with unique sire stacks to use on your heifers for an easy calving while improving production and more?

014HO06416 RUSH and 014HO06441 GUS are the calving ease answer for you! Rush is a Socrates from a Very Good Toystory and an Excellent Outside. He sires good production and is rated at 6.3% Sire Calving Ease (SCE). Gus is a Hadrain from a very good Scoop.

He transmits high Fat (+.17%, +76F), great Type (+2.32 PTAT), and is outstanding for SCE at 5.5%. Gus provides that rare combination

Blue-Prairie Enry 1565 Blue Prairie Holsteins, Blue Mounds, WI

Ste Odile Manoman Model Saphir VG-85 Ferme Ste. Odile, Inc., Rimouski, PQ, Canada

of moderate stature, calving ease, and high production while maintaining plenty of strength and width. Don’t overlook these two great PACE additions.

We have a newcomer to the active lineup in the Guernsey breed as 014GU00318 Copper graduates! This proven sire offers high type and ranks in the top ten of the breed for total performance.

High type does not lack with this group either! 014HO06470 WHISKEY and 014HO06428 CURY cover the high Type corner.

Whiskey is a Shottle son from an Excellent 92 Goldwyn and an Excellent 94 Durham. He is +2.92 PTAT while also siring high Fat (+.09%) and great udders. Whiskey is rated a calving ease sire as well. Cury comes into the Accelerated Genetics lineup as our highest Type bull at +3.36 PTAT. He has a little different sire stack being a Pagewire from an Excellent 91 Shottle. Cury sires frame and size along with great feet and legs as well as fabulous udders.

Accelerated Genetics has a strong genomic sire lineup with our GeneFORCE sires. GeneFORCE sires in the Holstein, Jersey and Brown Swiss breeds have many top performers offering a variety of genetics for your herd! The genetics offered in these breeds is second-to-none and whether you are looking for type, production, health traits or a different pedigree, this group has something for everyone.

As your herd enjoys this spring season and we move into a time to focus on breeding them, let Accelerated Genetics be your trusted first choice!

NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH COGENT ANNOUNCED Accelerated Genetics and Cogent Breeding Ltd. of the United Kingdom have formed a joint marketing agreement. Under this new agreement Accelerated Genetics is the exclusive distributor in the United States and Canada for Cogent’s elite range of dairy and beef sires. The agreement also extends to sexed semen from selected sires. Cogent is the pioneering business behind sexed semen technology and supply, and is the UK market leader in this field.

Accelerated Genetics President and CEO Joel Groskreutz states, “The formation of this marketing agreement with Cogent reinforces Accelerated Genetics’ long term commitment to assist today’s producers in achieving their ultimate herd goals by providing quality genetics.”

Through this marketing agreement, Accelerated Genetics producers in the US and Canada now have exclusive access to Cogent’s elite range of dairy genetics, which includes 224HO02881 Cogent Supershot, currently the industry-leading genomicallytested sire for GTPI (+2625) and Net Merit (+$1047).

224HO02881 Cogent Supershot’s Dam: Rose Super Shot VG-86

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

APRIL 2014 < GENETIC TRENDS < 13

WEB TIPS

INFORMATION AT YOUR FINGERTIPS A POWERFUL WEBSITE

THe Accelerated Genetics website provides you with useful tools for browsing the Sire Summary right at your fingertips.

As you browse the Sire Summary updates, consider using the searching tips provided on the Accelerated Genetics website. You can watch a video to learn how to view Proof History and customize the way you search sires from across the industry.

PROOF HISTORY: To view a sire’s proof history, click “Proof History” heading on the individual bull page.

PRINT PROOF HISTORY ON BULL PAGE: If you would like to include the Proof History on the individual bull page, you can change the page layout with the Advanced Search tool. Click the breed you would like to search. Then click the red “Advanced Search” button. Click on the “Status/Studs” category and check the box “Printable History” box under “Other Settings.” You must click “Search” for the default to be changed. Then you can click on or search for the bull you would like to print.

MAN-O-MAN2 014HO06429

Long­Langs Oman Oman 2­ETN TY O Man x VG­89 AltaAaron x VG­85 AltaBellwood Born: 4/4/2010 Reg No: HO840003006030062 100% RHA VG­86 aAa: 243165 DMS: 234,246 Breeder: Anthony Crothers and Fred Lang, Rising Sun, MD Beta­casein: A1A2 Kappa­casein: AB

Long­Langs Oman Oman 2­ETN

Sire: Dam:

O­Bee Manfred Justice­ET EX­94 Winning­Way Marci­ET CV VG­89 01­11 2x 365d 32010m 4.8 1544f 3.4 1098p MGS: Dixie­Lee Aaron­ET TY EX­90 MGD: Peticote Bwood Mozzetta­ET VG­85 GMD DOM 02­04 2x 365d 26920m 3.8 1017f 3.5 949p MGGS: Maizefield Bellwood­ET EX­96 MGGD: Peticote Mascot Mayday­ET EX­91 2E GMD DOM 05­08 2x 365d 35130m 3.6 1278f 3.6 1281p

HIGHLIGHT TRAITS: You can make the traits a sire ranks high in among other sires highlighted in red. By doing this, you can easily see the areas an individual sire excels. Just check the box for “Highlight Traits” under “Other Settings” and click “Search.”

Daughter Proven Success Elite Production Sire Highly Reliable Calving Ease Sire Cheese Merit Leader Superb Protein Sire Great Customer Satisfaction

ADD PLUS SIGN: You can add a plus sign to the traits that it applys. Simply check the box “Add Plus Sign” under “Other Settings” and click “Search.”

ADD LINEAR SCALE: In some cases, it may be fitting to change the linear scale. For example, if a sire exceeds +2.0 for many traits, the scale will not clearly visualize the difference between a +2.0 trait and a +2.5 trait. You can change the scale to be set to 2, 3, or 4. Check which number you would like to set the scale to under “Other settings” then click “Search.”

Ste Odile Manoman Model Saphir VG­85 Ferme Ste. Odile, Inc., Rimouski, PQ, Canada

Ralma­RH Manoman Banjo­ET VG­88 Morsan Farms LTD, Ponoka, AB, Canada

Maple Wood Man O Man Bombi VG­85 Stanton Bros Limited, Idlerton, ON, Canada

USDA­CDCB MACE ­ SIRE EVALUATIONS (04/2014) Milk +1102 99%R 5139 Dtrs 2140 Herds 29% US Fat +74 +0.12% 28651m 3.9% 1120f 3.2% 909p Protein +65 +0.12% EFI 6.7% GFI 7.2% PL +1.6 95%R Net Merit $ +584 SCS 2.90 98%R Fluid Merit $ +471 DPR +0.5 96%R Cheese Merit $ +723 HCR +0.8 CCR +0.0 NAAB CALVING TRAITS EVALUATIONS (04/2014) Sire Calving Ease 4.8% Daughter Calving Ease 5.4% Sire Stillbirth 7.3% Daughter Stillbirth 7.9%

99%R 66%R 94%R 60%R

SEARCH ALL STUDS: Remember, you can search sires from all studs at www.accelgen.com.

Simply check “All Studs” under “Marketing Organizations.”

www.accelgen.com 14 > GENETIC TRENDS > APRIL 2014

7459 Obs 2 Obs 6495 Obs 0 Obs

Comestar Lautamai Man O Man VG­87 Maple Wood Farms, Jerseyville, ON, Canada

USDA­CDCB / HA GENOMIC ­ TYPE (04/2014) PTAT +2.08 99%R Stature Strength Body Depth Dairy Form Rump Angle Thurl Width Rear Legs­Side View Rear Legs­Rear View Foot Angle Feet & Legs Score F. Udder Attachment Rear Udder Height Rear Udder Width Udder Cleft Udder Depth Front Teat Placement Rear Teat Placement Teat Length

­2

TPI +2185

UDC +1.78 FLC +1.63 3428 Dtrs 1551 Herds ­1 0 1 2 +2.47 Tall +1.04 Strong +0.97 Deep +1.50 Open Rib +0.07 Sloped +1.11 Wide ­0.53 Posty +1.29 Straight +2.01 Steep +1.73 High +1.06 Strong +3.24 High +2.98 Wide +2.95 Strong +1.32 Shallow +1.30 Close +1.87 Close +0.20 Long

L to R: Machado Intense 4163 VG-82%, Forest Glen Alexander Haley VG-84% and Forest Glen Alexander Nova VG-83% ©Frank Robinson.

ACCELERATED GENETICS IS

YOUR JERSEY SOURCE Whether it’s type, production, outcross, health or whatever your breeding goals may be, let Accelerated Genetics be your trusted first choice for Jersey Genetics. According to the data from National Association of Animal Breeders, the United States Jersey breed market share has increased from 10.8% in 2012 to 12% in 2013. This confirms producers are seeing the efficiency and profitability of the Jersey breed and are continuing to integrate these genetics into their operations. The U.S. market share trend continues to increase. Jerseys are continuing to be recognized as a breed that will make dairy businesses profitable and sustainable long into the future. Accelerated Genetics is your SOURCE for these great Jersey genetics and we have the proof to show you. (Source: April 2014)

P T H O Production

For those breeders focused on producing high quality milk and increasing yields to increase producer profitability.

014JE00533 014JE00647 014JE00544 014JE00651 014JE00628

PTAM +2425 +1977 +1848 +1699 +1638

Vito Marco Dazzle Bunk Warrant

PTAF +58 +62 +31 +45 +61

PTAP +77 +64 +52 +50 +50

MREL 97% 54% 92% 54% 72%

Health

JERSEY_December2013.indd 1

For those breeders looking for cows that adapt to any management system, mature quickly to enter into the milking herd sooner, and have fewer calving problems.

014JE00607 014JE00604 014JE00616 014JE00635 014JE00621

Rumble Justice Palmer Echo Thor

PL +5.3 +4.8 +4.7 +4.6 +4.4

SCS 2.88 2.99 2.91 3.06 3.11

DPR +0.8 +1.0 +0.6 -0.9 -0.4

HCR +1.6 +0.4 -0.6 +0.7 +0.1

CCR +3.1 +2.4 +0.6 -1.3 +0.1

Type

For those breeders looking for structural and functional soundness and overall ‘look’. Special interest is put on Jersey Udder Index (JUI) for functional type.

014JE00664 014JE00635 014JE00605 014JE00628 014JE00600

Nevin Echo Spitfire Warrant Decoy

PTAT +2.50 +2.50 +2.30 +2.10 +2.10

JUI +5.75 +6.16 +5.43 +5.31 +3.04

TREL 67% 64% 67% 71% 71%

Outcross

PTAM +1627 +918 +1240 +1638 +1617

For those breeders challenged or concerned by inbreeding as well as focused on Genomic Future Inbreeding (GFI).

014JE00647 014JE00651 014JE00645 014JE00553 014JE00640

Marco Bunk Huell Hancock Summary

GFI 3.1% 3.2% 3.3% 3.3% 3.9%

12/6/13 3:50

JPI +233 +224 +213 +178 +219

APRIL 2014 < GENETIC TRENDS < 15

NAME

NM$

PTAM

PTAF

PTAF%

PTAP

PTAP%

014HO07349

FAIRFAX

+866 +693

+73

+0.18%

+42

+0.08% 73% +7.0 +2.4 2.66 +1.69 +2.36 +1.70 5.6%

+855 +1826 +84

+0.06%

+65

+0.04% 71% +6.2 +1.1 2.89 +2.33 +2.28 +2.27 7.5%

+797 +712 +614 +593 +561 +516 +490 +466 +452

+0.01% +0.01% +0.17% +0.11% +0.00% +0.11% +0.17% +0.07% +0.00%

+49 +63 +48 +29 +27 +48 +34 +39 +41

-0.04% +0.04% +0.06% +0.05% -0.01% +0.05% +0.03% +0.04% -0.01%

202HO01018 JOCLASSIC 014HO07301 014HO06976 202HO00742 014HO06910 014HO05954 014HO06170 014HO06441 014HO06498 014HO06905

POTENTIAL ELMO BAKOMBRE CAMO DOUGLAS LEHMAN GUS ENRY VALENTINE-RED

+2069 +1764 +1064 +476 +1033 +1204 +845 +959 +1426

+79 +67 +85 +47 +39 +74 +76 +53 +51

MREL

76% 76% 89% 78% 98% 95% 91% 91% 77%

PL

+5.9 +4.2 +3.1 +4.2 +4.6 +2.2 +2.0 +2.1 +1.8

DPR

+1.2 +0.8 -0.3 +1.1 +2.0 -0.1 +0.0 +0.7 -1.0

SCS

2.78 2.68 2.95 2.48 2.60 2.86 2.95 2.88 2.74

PTAT

+1.92 +1.99 +2.16 +2.21 +1.29 +1.81 +2.32 +2.39 +1.78

UDC

+2.20 +1.83 +1.50 +2.16 +1.51 +1.36 +1.63 +2.22 +2.09

FLC

+1.98 +0.90 +2.23 +2.20 +1.55 +0.31 +1.82 +1.64 +0.51

SCE

6.9% 6.3% 5.6% 7.3% 5.6% 7.9% 5.5% 8.2% 7.2%

Source: 4/14

NAAB

GENETIC TRENDS < 80191