Genetic Trends August 2011 by Accelerated Genetics

Genetic

August 2011 • Vol. 63 No. 3

Your Cloning Questions Answered! page 10

Haplotypes and Their Impact page 11

Emerald Shines with Unique Pedigree and High TPI page 6

Start Your Calves Out Right with First Day Formula®!

page 12

More info at www.accelgen.com

Features

FEATURES & NEWS 70th Anniversary...............................................................4-5

Celebrating 70 Years of Service: Testimonials

Genetic

Official Publication of Accelerated Genetics August 2011

Vol. 63 No. 3

Editor: Kari A. Stanek Graphic Artist: Kelly Kendall

Sire Feature........................................................................6-7

Emerald Shines with High Genetics Potential and Low Inbreeding by Devan Funk

Dairy Sire News..............................................................8-11

An Overview of August’s Dairy Sire Summary by Dave Erf Frequently Asked Questions about Cloning and Man-O-Man 2 by Gary Fassett and Dr. Ole Meland Haplotypes Affecting Fertility and Their Impact on Dairy Cattle by Dr. Kent Weigel

Innovative Resources....................................................12-13

Jumpstart Your Newborn Calves’ Success with First Day Formula® by Dr. David Carlson

ReproConnections.............................................................14

Genetic Trends is published by Accelerated Genetics, E10890 Penny Lane, Baraboo, WI 53913.

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

Are Cystic Cows Becoming a Problem on Your Dairy? by Dr. Alex Souza

Accelerated Genetics News................................................15

On The Cover

This issue of Genetic Trends is packed with great information, from frequently asked questions about clones on page 11 to how haplotypes will affect your dairy’s reproductive program on page 13. Plus, learn about the importance of maintaining cows’ weight after calving to prevent cystic cattle on page 14. Like the cows in our cover image, having an adequate amount of feed for recently fresh cows is important for your animals’ reproductive health. Photo by Kelly Kendall.

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

Genetic Trends - August 2011

Accelerated Genetics Board and Officers President & CEO Joel Groskreutz Board Chair, District 8 Brian Brown, Belleville, WI 1st Vice Chair, District 1 Dave Score, Boyceville, WI 2nd Vice Chair, District 3 Gary Eibergen, Granton, WI Secretary/Treasurer, District 10 Doug Thesing, Winona, MN District 2 John Pronschinske, Arcadia, WI District 4 Andy Dejno III, Independence, WI District 5 Nick Butzler, Cashton, WI District 6 Dennis Bell, Gays Mills, WI District 7 Rick Carlson, Hollandale, WI District 9 Jeff Styczynski, Pulaski, WI

By: Joel Groskreutz, President and CEO

o me, the season of fall is synonomous with opportunity. Just as children get a fresh start when they go back to school, we at Accelerated Genetics also have new opportunities as we head into the next few months. As we continue to celebrate our company’s 70th anniversary, we pause to reflect on how Accelerated Genetics has adapted to the changes in the dairy and beef industries over the years. This year is no exception. The next few months look very positive for the dairy and beef industry. Milk price futures are high, opportunities for our country to export more milk are higher than anticipated and beef prices remain solid. Accelerated Genetics has also had some success lately. Recently, we were honored to receive two unique awards. One is the 2011 Wisconsin Governor’s Export

Achievement Award for being a top agricultural exporter and Wisconsinbased company.

our website, other sire summary pieces and our sales representatives for more information on this very new topic.

The other is the Compass Award given by Francis Investment Counsel, a nationally recognized expert retirement plan investment consulting organization, for our long-term commitment to excellence in the stewardship of our employees’ retirement assets.

Because we received very short notice of the upcoming release of haplotypes, we weren’t given ample time to educate and prepare you, our customers. However, our plan is to keep you informed as additional information becomes available. Unfortunately, every A.I. company has bulls that are carriers; no A.I. company is immune to this.

But our success only stems from your success. That’s why we at Accelerated Genetics are focused on helping you be successful in your farm business. And this issue of Genetic Trends is full of great articles that can help you with your herd. One of these articles is about haplotypes. On page 11, you will find an excerpt by Dr. Kent Weigel from the University of Wisconsin-Madison explaining the basics of haplotypes and key points. Along with this article, please look to

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

A Season of Opportunity

No matter what the topic, Accelerated Genetics is here to help you. Our team of professional employees will work with you to help you reach your dairy’s goals and be even more successful in the future, because “together, we can accomplish great things!”

Genetic Trends - August 2011

70th ANniversary

Celebrating 70 years

of Service! This year, Accelerated Genetics is celebrating our 70th anniversary. Although Accelerated Genetics has progressed in many ways, one thing remains constant –our dedication to quality products and service that is second-to-none.

Throughout the year, we’ll be checking in with various customers from around the United States to see how Accelerated Genetics has helped them excel in their herd!

Wybenga Dairy Rob Wybenga Oakley, Idaho Herd size: 5,500 Customer since: 2001 (10 years) Representative: Ivan Smith Favorite Accelerated Genetics product or service:

“The semen. Currently we are using Holstein and Jersey semen, and we are very happy with the product. We have always had a great reproduction program, but we have seen an improvement when we switched to Accelerated Genetics.”

Celtic Dairy John and James Golvarry, Aiden Daly and Christina Briones, Herdspersons Tribune, Kansas

Why do you use Accelerated Genetics?:

“They are competitive with their prices, and the service is great. We are very satisfied with the service that we receive from our representative [Ivan] along with the products that Accelerated Genetics provides.”

Herd size: 2,700 Customer since: 2006 (5 years) Representative: Shawn Roy Favorite Accelerated Genetics product or service:

“The bulls.” Why do you continue to use Accelerated Genetics?:

“We’re getting good results and getting our cows bred. Accelerated Genetics has bulls that are doing their job. Shawn is a really good person, and he cares about our dairy. Shawn calls when he can’t come and will ship our supplies if necessary, even on holidays. He arranges trainings with Humberto [Rivera, an Accelerated Genetics Reproductive Specialist] for our guys that do our breeding.” 4

Genetic Trends - August 2011

Herd size: 670 Customer since: 1960 (51 years) Representative: Dave Holzinger Favorite Accelerated Genetics product or service:

“The young sire program. The program helps me to cut down on cost without losing the genetics. With young sires proving out each year, we can see a phenomenal return, and our investment pays off in the end.” Why do you continue to use Accelerated Genetics?:

“The service. They have outstanding service and knowledge. I’m not as knowledgeable about genetics, but with Accelerated Genetics’ breeding and servicing programs, our herd has high pregnancy rates, super production and great genetics. Our technician does a great job of breeding the cows and getting them to settle. He is always right there.”

Dothedale Farm Dan Requate Valley Falls, New York Herd size: 190 Customer since: 1991 (20 years) Representative: Tom Kugler

70th Anniversary

Latham Dairy Jon Latham Boscobel, Wisconsin

Favorite Accelerated Genetics product or service: “The young sire program. This program gives me the

confidence and ability to see the advancement in genetics within the herd. It allows me to look to the future.” Why do you continue to use Accelerated Genetics?:

“Because of the confidence that we have in the semen and the products that Accelerated Genetics provides to our herd. I am always confident that our semen will be delivered on time, and that it will be of the top quality. Also, because of the relationship that we have with our representative. I trust him, and I have confidence in his services. He is knowledgeable about the dairy industry and he helps me to make breeding decisions that will benefit my herd.”

C & W White Farms LLC. Wayne and Charles White Ashland, Ohio Herd size: 160 Customer since: 2001 (10 years) Representative: Don Hange Favorite Accelerated Genetics product or service:

“Tri-Mic, because there has been a large increase in production. We have used it for five years.” Why do you continue to use Accelerated Genetics?:

“The long-term relationship with our representative. Don has been with us for years. Because of his experience, we can trust him. He knows the cows, and the service and sires he selects have always been top notch.”

Genetic Trends - August 2011

Sire Feature

Emerald Shines With High Genetic Potential And Low Inbreeding By: Devan Funk, Genetic Development Manager

hen looking for sires with outcross pedigrees that still maintain a high genetic potential, look no further than 014HO05560 Bomaz Marion EMERALD 648-ET. This highly ranked TPI® sire has one of the lowest Expected Inbreeding Coefficients (EFI) in the Holstein breed. At 5.1 EFI, Emerald will address inbreeding concerns and give you high genetic performance. He is the only available A.I. sire with a 5.1 EFI or lower that is over +2000 TPI.

Deep Ancestry Emerald’s pedigree is packed with high performance. High milk production has been evident for many generations throughout his cow family. Dating all the way back to six generations on his maternal line, we find Bomaz Valiant Daphne VG-88-GMD-DOM. She had many sons in A.I., including Bomaz Destruction-ET, a prominent sire from

Genetic Trends - August 2011

the 1990s that was one of the breed’s highest PTAM sires at one time and a former Top 100 TPI sire. The next four dams were sired by Cleitus, Bell Promise, Oscar, and Mattie. All were VG cows with over 30,000 M and nearly 1200 F with over 900 P. Then we have Emerald’s dam Bomaz Lynch 2411 EX90-GMD-DOM. With milk production bred heavily into the cow family and then combining all that milk with the extremely high components of Lynch, 2411 produced unbelievable components with high production. As a two-yearold, her record was 2-01 3x 317 days 28,310M 5.4% 1521F 3.3% 922P. She followed that record up by freshening in 12 months time with 3-01 3x 365 44,480 5.1% 2267F 3.4% 1507P. This puts her in national class category rankings (3rd overall fat). 2411 has been flushed extensively over the last 6 years.

Therefore, Emerald has several maternal brothers in A.I. and several maternal sisters that have been used as bull dams. Recently, Accelerated Genetics has acquired a Domain son from a Socrates sister to Emerald.

Creation of a Genetic Gem The planned mating of 2411 and Marion was a complementary mating of the high production sire, Marion, with the high component and high health traits of Lynch. Apparently it worked well! Emerald is a much higher milk sire than his maternal sire, Lynch, but also Emerald has better health traits and much better components than Marion.

Ocooch Emerald 3642

Current Sire Proof Emerald ranks among the breed’s best for butterfat improvement with a PTA of +94 F. His fat percentage of +.27% and protein percentage of +.10% gives credit to his dam’s incredible genetics for components. Emerald’s health traits are much better than Marion’s, at +2.0PL 2.96 SCS and +0.5 DPR. At +138 combined fat and protein lbs (CFP), he ranks among the breed’s best. He is one of four active A.I. sires that is >130 CFP and >0.5 DPR. Furthermore, he has very acceptable calving traits at 7% SSCE, 7% DCE, 7.4% SSB and 5.8% DSB that rank well among Marion sons. Emerald’s linear type pattern shows extreme values for rear udder height and rear udder width. At +4.31 RUW, Emerald is in rare company and is Marion’s top son for RUW. At +3.06 udder cleft, Emerald is

elite in this category too, being one of Marion’s top son for UC. Overall Emerald daughters are tall, strong and deep ribbed cows with adequate dairyness and wide rumps with some slight slope. Legs are somewhat straighter from the side view and correct from the rear view with steep foot angle. At +1.65 FLC, Emerald is a foot and leg improver. One note is that Emerald does carry the HH1 haplotype.

Sire for the Future With a top TPI of +2081, having an outcross pedigree and strong PTA values across the board, Emerald is being used as a sire father at Accelerated Genetics and other A.I. companies globally. With nearly all of the highest ranked genomic animals having Planet, Shottle, Goldwyn or O Man in their pedigrees either once or multiple times, a bull like Emerald, who is not related to any of these influential sires, is needed to reduce inbreeding concerns without sacrificing genetic numbers. Emerald is a good semen producer and is health qualified for all global markets. It is difficult to find reasons not to consider Emerald for your breeding program today!

“We are milking five Emerald daughters – four are second lactation and one is dry. All calved first lactation at approximately 1 year 10 months of age. Our current rolling herd average is 24,000 pounds of milk, and in their first lactation, our Emerald daughters averaged over 101percent relative value with a 305 day ME of 26,060 pounds of milk. Our Emerald daughters are high producing, trouble free cows that breed back easily.

Sire Feature

In July, 2006, four male calves and two female Marion calves were born, with another female born in October. Emerald was chosen from the litter without the assistance of a genomic evaluation, and as luck has it, he turned out to be the highest brother of litter, with two of the three brothers now having genomic evaluations themselves at other A.I. companies.

John Huie Hillcrest Dairy/Hoekie Holsteins Le Grande, California 4300 Holsteins “Emerald daughters are good solid cows. They stand on a solid set of feet and legs with great spring of rib. They have been good producers while still settling on the first service breed back. They are calm animals and easy to work with. Emerald is still used on our farm and a solid bull that will have the longevity to last. I am looking forward to getting my Emerald daughters back into the milking parlor. “ Brenda Jelle, O’Brien Bros. Dairy Fitchburg, Wisconsin 270 cows “My Emerald daughters are strong and powerful cows. They have a sound set of feet and legs with a great udder. Just the other day, the classifier made a comment on how much he liked one of our Emerald daughters and what a good cow she was. I would definately use Emerald again because I love the daughters that I already have out of him.” Mary Thomas, Lor-Mar Holsteins Houston, Minnesota 130 cows “Our Emerald daughters are great cows – the producers. They have great tests each lactation in both milk and protein production. They are very calm animals, and that is important to us because the same person doesn’t milk every time. We don’t have a fear of something happening or going wrong with our Emerald daughters because they are so calm. They are also maintainance free, with good feet and legs and very high udders, which reduces the chance of injuries from stepped-on teats.”

Hasburgh 648 Cora is a daughter of 014HO05560 Emerald.

Liz Hasburg, Haburg Holstiens Avoca, Wisconsin 80 cows Genetic Trends - August 2011

DAIRY SIRE NEWS

Staying Ahead in the World of Genomics with Accelerated Genetics By: Dave Erf, Dairy Sire Analyst

he August 2011 Sire Summary brought many new bulls and new information. The dairy industry was introduced to five new haplotypes affecting fertility, with three of those occurring in Holsteins and one each in Brown Swiss and Jersey. (Read more about these haplotypes on page 11.) Also, Accelerated Genetics had a very successful sire run and continues to have breed leaders and new high ranking releases available to help improve the genetics of your herd. The “Big Three” from last summary, 014HO04929 MAN-O-MAN, 014HO05639 CM and 014HO05560 EMERALD, maintained their lofty positions as breed leaders for total performance. MAN-O-MAN and his clone, 014HO06429 MAN-O-MAN 2, hold down the #4 position on the TPI® list. (Frequently asked questions about the use of clones can be found on page 10.) The demand for MAN-O-MAN semen has always outpaced his ability to produce. MAN-O-MAN 2 provides an opportunity to increase this supply and add these elite genetics to your herd. MAN-O-MAN’s impact on the breed is very evident as his offspring are commanding high prices at auctions around the world.

014HO05639 CM made some nice increases in his summary this time and is now our top proven bull for NM$ at +653. He is now at +2133 TPI and ranks eighth in the breed. CM is a Sharky out of an Outside, providing an outcross opportunity to today’s prominent bloodlines. He sires silky dairy daughters and is best used on those stronger cows. 014HO05560 EMERALD increased his already astounding levels of fat and protein and is now +.28%, +94 fat and +.10%, +44 protein. He ranks 12th on the TPI list and is still in demand as a mating sire. Being a Marion out of a Lynch, EMERALD also provides an outcross opportunity to the popular bloodlines. (Read more about EMERALD and his family in a feature article on page 6-7). Genetic Trends - August 2011

Koval Calvary 1588 is a daughter of the new release sire, 014HO05682 Calvary. Calvary is +1913 TPI®, +2.52 PTAT and +1444 PTAM. Among our Holstein new releases, a variety of pedigrees are represented. The top new PACE release for TPI is 014HO05682 CALVARY. He is a Lucky Star son that comes in at +1913 TPI. At +2.52 PTAT and +1444 milk, he can make fancy daughters that know how to milk. His daughters are also tall with lots of frame along with great udders and feet and legs. 014HO5714 STRONGHOLD is a high ranking net merit new release from the PACE program. He is an FBI son from a Diamond dam, making him a different option for high powered genetics. He is a great source of high production from moderate frames. For those looking to maintain average sized cows without sacrificing udders or feet and legs, look to STRONGHOLD. 014HO05667 SPEEDY and 014HO05628 DEMAS are both Toystory sons that join the active lineup. Both provide positive components and outstanding type along with calving ease.

014HO05646 TORANCE and 014HO05709 SUBPOP are Elegant sons that sire calving ease and great udders. TORANCE is a nice solid bull across the board for production, type and health traits. At +2.60 PTAT, SUBPOP is among the top five active bulls at Accelerated Genetics. Another different sire stack can be found in 014HO05611 BARDIA. He is a Mango son that is a foot and leg specialist (+2.60 FLC). He also is rated at 6 percent for calving ease. 014HO05543 LEON is a Marion son that follows somewhat in Emerald’s footsteps as he is higher in components (+.14% fat and +.05% protein). LEON is also a 7 percent calving ease sire. Accelerated’s first Bolton son to graduate to active status is 014HO05808 KIT KAT. He is a very solid bull with great ratings for type (+2.14 PTAT) and production (+60 fat, +34 protein) while being positive for components.

Man-O-Man Featured in July 2011 Issue of HOlstein World Accelerated Genetics was excited to have 014HO04929 Man-O-Man featured in the July, 2011 issue of Holstein World! Man-O-Man appeared on the cover next to one of his third-lactation daughters, DeJong Man-O-Man 211 from DeJong Dairy, Ballico, Calif.

Dairy Sire news

Jersey lineup this time. 014JE00509 LIAM is a high production sire that transmits great frames with that high production. LIAM is a Lexington son that will rank among the top 15 sires of the breed for JPI. 014JE00507 FLASH is an Iatola son that transmits great components (+.12% fat, +.04% protein), high type (+1.5 PTAT) and Forest Glen Flash Drive is a daughter of 014JE00507 Flash, a new outstanding udders release Jersey sire with beautiful udders and high components. (+3.89 JUI). Our third new Jersey release is Additions to the proven lineup from our 014JE00519 LINCOLN, Accelerated’s Alliance partners include some high type first Blair son to return to active service. sires. 202HO00722 SAMSON is a Mr Sam LINCOLN sires outstanding type (+1.4 son from a Stormatic dam and is +2.77 PTAT) along with good production and PTAT, +2.62 UDC, +2.82 FLC and +1991 fabulous udders (+3.90 JUI). TPI. 218HO00157 ARTES is a Goldwyn son that is over three points for type A new release Guernsey sire, and udders (+3.16 PTAT, +3.20 UDC). 014GU00311 BEHOLD, also enters the Genervations sends us three Goldwyn lineup. BEHOLD is a Challenge son that sons that rank high. 250HO00896 sires good production, nice type and is LEXICON and 250HO00904 LAKOTA plus for health traits, making him one of are high type sires at +2.89 PTAT and the higher Net Merit bulls of the breed. +3.03 PTAT respectively. 250HO00908 LOBO is a higher production Goldwyn As you can see it was a very busy sire son that is a high component bull at +.14% summary at Accelerated Genetics. Our fat and +.09% protein. goal is to provide you with the best available genetics that help to improve In the Jersey breed, 014JE00473 LOUIE your herd and make your life easier. Take continues his long reign as the number advantage of the great bulls available, and one JPI sire at +209, an impressive eleven together we will continue to move ahead points in front of the second ranked bull. in the world of genomics. We also added three new sires to the

Inside, Man-O-Man’s two page article focused on his lasting impact on the dairy industry, as well as how his sons and daughters are already having a large impact on the industry as well. Thank you to all customers who advertised in that issue!

AN “Excellent” Classification Day For Accelerated Genetics Accelerated Genetics had outstanding results from their recent Holstein sire classification with five new bulls scoring Excellent and others adding points.

EX-92 014HO05808 Kit-Kat *New EX 014HO04956 Dotson 014HO05525 Advantage-Red

The sires recently scored Excellent include the following:

EX-90 014HO05639 CM EX-90 *New EX 014HO05617 Mystic EX-90 *New EX 014HO05611 Bardia EX-90 *New EX 014HO05667 Speedy EX-90 *New EX

EX-94 014HO03831 Veazland Marion-ET EX-93 014HO04878 Bomaz Kalahari 544-ET

Eight other Accelerated Genetics sires scored Very Good, including:

VG-88 014HO05399 Kolton 014HO05709 Subpop VG-87 014HO05461 Kade 014HO05628 Demas 014HO05647 Davis 014HO05681 Loto VG-86 014HO05528 Justify 014HO05777 Upward

Genetic Trends - August 2011

DAIRY SIRE NEWS

Man-O-Man 2: What aN Opportunity! By: Gary Fassett, Vice President of Sales and Communication

ong-Langs Oman Oman-ET, 014HO04929, is a “once in a generation” genetic giant in the minds of today’s Holstein breeders. Man-O-Man has consistently been in the Top 10 bulls of the breed for TPI® (Total Performance Index) since his release in early 2009. Man-O-Man also has very high values for milk, fat percent, protein percent, final score, Net Merit, udder composite and other health traits, along with low calving ease. His fantastic genetics combined with extremely short semen supply made Man-O-Man the most sought after genetics in Holstein herds around the world. However, due to environmental issues, ManO-Man is unable to produce many units of semen. While bulls such as 014HO4916 Jake, 014HO05434 Trump and 014HO05300 Micah produce five times as many doses of semen as Man-O-Man, the quality of Man-O-Man’s semen continues to be highly fertile. However, the prognosis for Man-OMan to reach a level of semen production to meet the demand for his semen is virtually improbable.

half months, and Man-O-Man 2 is one of the youngest bulls from whom we’ve ever collected semen at Accelerated Genetics. As an ETN, Man-O-Man 2 is a genetic duplicate of Man-O-Man. Their DNA is exactly the same. By using Man-O-Man 2, you can use Man-O-Man’s genetics to increase the value of the next generation of Holstein cattle in your herd. 014HO06429 Man-O-Man 2 is a genetic duplicate to 014HO04929 Man-O-Man.

Therefore, when it became apparent that Man-O-Man had very limited semen production capabilities, the management at Accelerated Genetics decided to clone ManO-Man in early 2009. On April 4, 2010, 014HO06429 Long-Langs Oman Oman 2-ETN was born. This bull came to Accelerated Genetics at a very young age and has received extra special care. Today, Man-O-Man 2 is a well-grown yearling. Semen production commenced in late February of 2011 at the age of 10 and a

Through the use of Man-O-Man 2, Holstein breeders have access to the same great genetics as Man-O-Man. Without Man-OMan 2, the influence of Man-O-Man will have been limited to only those Holstein breeders who elected to pay the higher cost for Man-O-Man semen. Man-O-Man 2’s semen is available to all breeders at a reasonable cost, considering the genetics that Man-O-Man 2 offers. Man-OMan and Man-O-Man 2 will sire the type of cattle that are very profitable. The genetics that they offer to the next generation is fantastic and will enable Holstein breeders to breed long-lasting, trouble-free, profitable cattle.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT CLONING AND MAN-O-MAN 2 By: Dr. Ole Meland, Vice President of Genetics What is an ETN? ETN is the designation for a cloned animal. ETN stands for “Embryo Transfer Nuclear.” How do male and female clones differ? The nuclear DNA in both male and female clones is an identical match to the genetic donor. They have the same genotype and the same genomics. The differences in female clones have three sources: 1.) Mitochondrial DNA present in the cytoplasm from the egg cell used in the cloning technology, 2.) Epigenetic changes produced in gene expression, which are caused by mechanisms other than change in the underlying DNA sequences, and 3.) environmental differences between the donor and the clone. The most important point as it relates to males (clone or not) is that a male does not pass his mitochondrial DNA to his offspring. 10

Genetic Trends - August 2011

So, when you breed a cow using Man-O-Man 2 semen, it is just like using Man-O-Man semen. The two have identical genotypes. Dolly, the cloned sheep, was a victim of premature aging and died at a relatively young age. Is there any evidence of this in cloned cattle? There is no evidence that premature aging is a problem with cloned cattle or with the offspring of cloned cattle. There are several hundred daughters of 250HO00833 Champion 2-ETN and 250HO00803 Champion with no indication that Champion 2 daughters age any earlier than Champion daughters do. How will the USDA and Holstein USA treat the daughters of Man-O-Man and Man-OMan 2 in sire summaries? In the United States, Man-O-Man and ManO-Man 2 will have identical genetic estimates for all traits, except Sire Conception Rate

(SCR). In the case of an embryo transfer split (ETS) or ETN, the genetic estimate from the animal (donor, split or cloned) that has more progeny will be published for both animals. Can I register my Man-O-Man 2 daughters in the Holstein USA herdbook? Yes, offspring of Man-O-Man 2 can be registered in the Holstein USA herdbook. They must be registered as daughters or sons of Man-O-Man 2. Will Man-O-Man 2 have the same limited semen production challenges as Man-OMan? The early semen production ability of Man-O-Man 2 is very good. He is already out producing Man-O-Man on a regular basis at this very young age. The testicular development of Man-O-Man 2 is far superior to Man-O-Man. It is evident that ManO-Man’s semen quantity challenges are environmental and not genetic related.

By: Dr. Kent Weigel, UW-Madison, Dairy Science Department, and Dr. Ole Meland, Vice President of Genetics Dr. Kent Weigel, Professor and Chair, Department of Dairy Science University of Wisconsin-Madison wrote an article “Haplotypes Affecting Fertility and their Impact on Dairy Cattle Breeding programs”. Space did not permit us to include the entire article, so we included portions of the article here. The full article can be found on our website: www. accelgen.com. We encourage you to read the complete article for more in-depth explanations. “New tools in genomics have provided an unprecedented look at the inner workings of the cattle genome and the relationship between variation in DNA sequences and differences in the conformation, health, fertility, and performance of dairy cattle. Genetic selection has become genomic selection, and terms such as single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), imputation, and haplotype have become part of our everyday vocabulary. These

“SNP effects” form the basis of genomic breeding values, because they are matched with the genotypes of young bulls and heifers to facilitate accurate selection decisions among animals that are too young to have phenotypes of their own. As genetic selection has given way to genomic selection, research scientists, industry workers, and dairy farmers have had to re-think the ways in which genetic information is interpreted and used. We are not only faced with the task of rethinking the way that information about an animal’s entire genome is interpreted and used in genomic selection, but also the way that information about specific genes, markers, or chromosomal segments is interpreted and used in breeding decisions. In the past, the process of identifying specific genes with adverse effects on an animal’s appearance, health, or performance was lengthy and expensive.

Dairy Sire news

Haplotypes Affecting Fertility and their Impact on Dairy Cattle Times have changed, and today we recognize that such inherited conditions are not rare anomalies that occur once in a decade in a handful of genetically unfit animals. Armed with a much deeper understanding of the genomes of cattle and other food animal species, scientists now believe that it is likely that every individual carries several genes that, if expressed in homozygous form, would lead to a severely impaired or lethal phenotype. The USDA-ARS Animal Improvement Programs Laboratory routinely publishes the Lifetime Net Merit (LNM$) index, which weights every trait according to its economic value; bulls that carry BH1, HH1, HH2, HH3, or JH1 have already been penalized in LNM$.”

Important Key Points About HaploTypes From Dr. Kent Weigel 1) The term “haplotype” refers to a group of SNP markers that are located at adjacent positions on the chromosome and are usually inherited together. 2) Modern genomics tools have been used to identify thousands of haplotypes on each chromosome, and each has a positive, neutral, or negative association with production, conformation, health, and fertility. 3) Scientists have identified five haplotypes that haven’t been found in a homozygous state in genotyped animals and have a negative effect on conception rate when present in the sire and dam. 4) The exact genes and their underlying biological roles in fertilization and embryo development are unknown, but it is assumed that the outcome of inheriting

the same haplotype from both parents is failed conception or early embryonic loss. 5) The reactive approach of attempting to eradicate every animal with an undesirable haplotype is not recommended in light of their economic impact, and is not practical given the likelihood that many more undesirable haplotypes will be found. 6) The impact of these haplotypes is already reflected in published evaluations for sire conception rate and daughter pregnancy rate, as well as the Lifetime Net Merit index. 7) Producers should neither avoid using bulls with these haplotypes nor cull cows, heifers, and calves that are carriers, because this will lead to significant economic losses in other important traits.

8) Computerized mating programs offer a simple, inexpensive solution for avoiding affected matings, so producers should use these programs and follow through on the mating recommendations. Using Dr. Weigel’s advice, you can manage Haplotypes using the GEMpc mating program from Accelerated Genetics. GEMpc can tell you the estimated frequency of the haplotypes currently within your herd. Plus, your herd can be mated based on Genomics, Pedigree or Visual data. Contact your Accelerated Genetics representative today to schedule a GEMpc mating for your herd.

Genetic Trends - August 2011

INNOVATIVE RESOURCES

Jumpstart your newborn calves’ success with First Day Formula® By: Dr. David Carlson, Ph.D., PAS, Technical Services Manager, Milk Products, LLC.

irst Day Formula® is Accelerated Genetics’ own formulated colostrum replacement product, which contains dried, natural bovine colostrum. Read the frequently asked questions below to learn how using colostrum replacement products can help your calves. 1. Why consider feeding a colostrum replacer? Clean, disease-free, good quality maternal colostrum delivered to the calf in a timely fashion is ideal. However, there are several opportunities for breakdowns in colostrum biosecurity, collection, storage or feeding process that can compromise the value of the colostrum for the calf. There are numerous situations where a colostrum replacer would be beneficial to use, including: Quality and quantity concerns – shortage of maternal colostrum regardless of quality, or not having enough quality colostrum Convenience – night calvings, labor shortages, lack of time to milk the fresh cow(s) or thaw stored colostrum Biosecurity – to prevent transmission of diseases such as Johne’s, Mycoplasma bovis, E. coli or Salmonella

Cleanliness – if there are concerns about bacterial contamination of maternal colostrum Consistency – Immunoglobulin (Ig), also termed globulin protein, concentration in maternal colostrum varies from cow-to-cow. With a colostrum replacer, every calf will receive the same amount of globulin protein. 2. What is important to look for when purchasing a colostrum replacer? The primary differences among the various colostrum replacement products currently on the market are the globulin protein source, globulin protein concentration and ease of mixing. Globulin protein sources on the market today are either dried bovine colostrum or dried bovine serum. Globulin protein concentration should be such that at least 150 grams of globulin protein can easily be delivered at the first feeding. This recommendation stems from the fact that feeding one gallon of good quality colostrum (good quality ≥ 50 grams of globulin protein per liter of colostrum) will deliver ~190 grams of globulin protein to the calf. Mixing characteristics of colostrum replacers are important to ensure that powder residue does not remain in the

bottle or esophageal tube feeder. Residual colostrum replacer solution decreases the amount of globulin protein consumed by the calf. An ideal colostrum replacer will mix easily and completely. 3. What are the differences between colostrum- and serum-based colostrum replacers? The globulin protein in colostrum-based replacers is derived from maternal cow colostrum. Serum-based colostrum replacers are derived from blood collected from beef packing plants. There are two subgroups of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) found in colostrum- and serum-based replacers – IgG1 and IgG2. Colostrum-derived globulin protein has approximately 95 percent IgG1 and 5 percent IgG2. Serum-derived globulin protein contains 50 percent IgG1 and 50 percent IgG2. The primary difference between IgG1 and IgG2 is how they function in the calf. IgG1 has been shown to freely cross from the bloodstream into the intestine in response to a pathogenic challenge, whereas IgG2 cannot. This means that more IgG is available to fight scours-causing bacteria in the intestine if the calf was fed a colostrumbased replacer. 4. Does it matter if colostrum replacer is fed via nipple bottle or esophageal tube feeder? Recent data from the University of Minnesota (Godden et al., 2009, J. Dairy Sci. 92:1758) shows that when a small volume of colostrum replacer solution is fed (e.g., 1.5 liters or 1.6 quarts), feeding by nipple bottle increased globulin protein absorption compared with calves fed by esophageal tube feeder. When a larger volume was fed (e.g., 3 L or 3.2 quarts) there was no difference in globulin protein absorption between calves fed by nipple bottle or esophageal tube feeder.

Most colostrum replacers are designed to fit into a 2-quart bottle, so for best results, Give calves the head start they need with First Day Formula®.This instantized colostrum replacement colostrum replacer solution should be first fed by nipple bottle, and any refused liquid product mixes easily, making it more convenient to feed. Photo by Kelly Kendall. 12

Genetic Trends - August 2011

Dystocia – Calves that undergo a difficulty delivery process are typically less active and have reduced ability to stand. It is thought that dystocia calves absorb globulin protein just as efficiently, but are more likely to be fed with an esophageal tube feeder due to reduced interest in suckling from a nipple bottle. Use of a high-quality colostrum replacer removes many of the sources of variation in globulin protein absorption if stored, mixed, and fed properly. 6. Colostrum replacers contain different sources of fat – does it matter to my calves? Fat sources in colostrum replacers are derived from colostral (milk) fat, animal fat (lard or tallow), or vegetable fat (plant oils). Digestibility Check out the First Day Formula® video online at of these fat sources are similar, so www.accelgen.com to see how easily it mixes. the primary difference is the fatty acid profile. Colostrum replacers that contain colostral fat would have a fatty acid can then be administered by esophageal profile more closely resembling milk. Many tube feeder. colostrum replacers contain animal fat (e.g., 5. What are some factors that affect the edible-grade lard) that is highly digestible efficiency of globulin protein absorption? but has a fatty acid profile different than that of milk fat. We are unaware of any research Some of the known factors that decrease supporting the notion that fat sources globulin protein absorption include the improve or diminish short- or long-term following: calf health. Length of time between birth and first 7. How important is the fat percentage in a feeding – As time progresses after birth, colostrum replacer? “gut closure” occurs, which means that the intestine is no longer permeable to the large Most colostrum replacers contain between globulin proteins. 10 to 20-percent fat. Fat is a critical source of energy for the newborn calf. First milking Nursing the cow – The initial colostrum colostrum contains approximately 28 meal triggers gut closure. If calves nurse percent fat (dry matter basis), so colostrum the cow, they may not consume enough replacers do not deliver as much energy as colostrum to achieve adequate globulin maternal colostrum. protein absorption. Calves that are fed three to four quarts of Ingestion of bacteria – This can occur maternal colostrum are often not hungry through either ingestion of manure through at the next scheduled feeding, which is attempted or actual nursing, or through contaminated colostrum. Bacteria can cause usually 6 to 12 hours after their first feeding. When feeding a colostrum replacer, calves infection and decrease the efficiency of will likely be hungry due to the smaller globulin protein absorption. first meal, so they should be fed a milk or Cold stress – The effects of cold stress on milk replacer feeding at the next scheduled globulin protein absorption can be direct feeding.

A Satisfied First Day Formula® Customer: Blessing Farm Fort Wayne, Indiana Steve Blessing Herd size: 150 Brown Swiss Representative: Don Hange Why did you start to use First Day Formula®? “When our veterinarian suggested that we start testing the colostrum from our cows, it seemed easier to use a replacement product so we started looking at different products. When we compared prices First Day [Formula®]was very compatible to the other product we were using. When we started using First Day, we were happier with the way it mixed and the competitive price.”

INNOVATIVE RESOUrCES

and indirect, by directly inhibiting absorption in the gut and indirectly by decreasing the calf ’s activity level and ability to nurse.

What changes have you seen in your calves? “It seems that the calves like the product. It is also easier for us because we don’t have to worry about the calves born late at night or early in the morning because we just grab a bag of First Day and we know that calf will receive the colostrum it needs.” How long have you been using First Day Formula? “ We have been using First Day for about nine months. In that time we have feed First Day to all our calves. With the use of First Day, we can assure that our bulls going into stud and the heifers that we sell are healthy and ready for their future.”

8. How do I use colostrum replacers as supplements? Most colostrum replacers also have directions for using as a supplement to maternal colostrum. It is important to follow the mixing and feeding directions when supplementing maternal colostrum. Colostrum replacer powder should not be added to maternal colostrum without first being mixed with water, as the dry matter percentage of the maternal colostrum/ colostrum supplement mixture may be too high to be fed through a bottle or tube feeder, and most importantly, too high to be efficiently used by the calf.

Genetic Trends - August 2011

By: Dr. Alex Souza, Ph.D., Reproduction Consultant

uring our daily work visiting dairies, we always seem to come across herds concerned about having more than ideal numbers of cystic cows. Although we know that feet problems and certain mycotoxins are associated with having more cystic cows, we have a poor understanding about other possible factors 3.0 causing more cows to become cystic in a given dairy herd.

However, findings from a recent study (Rodrigues et al., 2011) indicate that greater incidences of cystic conditions could be related to cows losing too much weight and body condition score (BCS) after calving.

Progesterone (ng/mL)

REpRoconnections

Are Cystic COws becoming a problem on your dairy?

2.5

How does a greater level of progesterone relate to a cow’s cystic condition? The answer is rather simple. Earlier studies (Hatler et al., 2003) identified that cystic cows seemed to have intermediate levels of circulating progesterone even LOSS, Cows losing body weight MAINT, Cows maintaining body weight CIDR removal

of lactation,which result in excessive loss of body weight and body scores after calving. If dairies are worried about the increase in proportion of cystic cows, look at the body condition scores of cows in the close-up group and the fresh pens. The increase in cystic cows could simply be related to excessive body weight loss after calving.

2.0 1.5 1.0 0.5

References: Effects of body weight loss on serum progesterone concentrations of non-lactating dairy cows. Rodrigues et al., 2001. Theriogenology 75, 131-137.

The study, published in the 0.0 Theriogenology Journal, 0 2 4 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 Relationship between endogenous studied the effects of body progesterone and follicular Day weight loss on circulating dynamics in lactating dairy cows progesterone and its possible Figure 1. Relationship between body weight loss and circulating with ovarian follicular cysts. association with cysts in progesterone in dairy cows (adapted with permission from authors Hatler et al., 2003. Biology of - Rodrigues et al., 2011). Cows losing body weight seem to release dairy cows. These researchers Reproduction 69, 218-223. progesterone stored in fat into bloodstream. used ovariectomized cows (cows that had their ovaries surgically removed) to make in the absence of a functional CL sure that no confounding progesterone in their ovaries. At the time it was production was coming from the released, nobody really understood ovaries. Then, they used CIDRs to build the actual source of the circulating up progesterone storage in fat tissues, progesterone. Now, this recent study simulating the progesterone accumulated from Vasconcelos names the source in the cows’ fat tissue during pregnancy. – the intermediate progesterone Later they removed the CIDR implants present in the blood of cystic cows and randomized cows into two feeding seem to come from fat tissues. strategies aiming to maintain (MAINT) Thus, if cows are losing fat, this or induce body weight loss (LOSS) after progesterone stored in fat is released CIDR removal. The figure below shows Stretch your in the blood, inhibiting LH surges the circulating progesterone profile in feed dollar$ with and producing cystic ovaries. these two groups of cows. The relationship between body Get More Out of Your Feed . . . In summary, cows that lost body weight loss and cystic ovaries Get More Out of Your Cows . . . weight after CIDR removal (mimicking Get More Out of Your Milk Check! in cattle can be applied to real progesterone drop after parturition) world situations. Some examples released progesterone from fat tissues include the following: cows that Tri-Mic 1:50 DFM for Dairy Cattle into bloodstream at a greater extent than are pushed “too hard” to produce • Improved Feed Utilization • More Consistent Feed Intakes cows maintaining their body weight. milk, herds with poor transition • Enhanced Rumen Environment As a result, animals losing body weight cow management (i.e. primiparous had greater circulating progesterone in cows having limited feed intake due their blood, even with no progesterone To learn more about Tri-Mic 1:50, contact your to overcrowding, etc), or herds with Accelerated Genetics representative, today! production from the ovaries. inadequate nutrition at early stages 800.451.9275 • www.accelgen.com

Tri-Mic 1:50.

Genetic Trends - August 2011

Accelerated Genetics was a recent recipient of the 2011 Wisconsin Governor’s Export Achievement Award.

The Governor’s Export Achievement Awards are presented annually to Wisconsin-based companies actively involved in export trade. Criteria include degree of export-related growth; innovative techniques and approaches that resulted in the company’s success; and demonstration of extra effort in capturing worldwide markets.

Wisconsin governor, Scott Walker presented the annual Export Achievement Awards on Tuesday, May 10, to recognize firms and organizations that have achieved extraordinary results in international sales or have contributed Brian Brown, Chairman of the Accelerated Genetics Board of to Wisconsin’s increased Directors, accepts the 2011 Governor’s Export Award from ability to compete in a global market. Walker says Wisconsin governor, Scott Walker. Photo by Kari Stanek.

Will you be Traveling to World Dairy Expo 2011? World Dairy Expo 2011 is quickly approaching! Mark your calendars for October 4-8, 2011, in Madison, Wisconsin. While you’re attending the expo, be sure to stop by the two Accelerated Genetics’ booth locations: Coliseum 191193 and Exhibition Hall 3601-3603. Learn about our new products, visit with reproductive specialists and sign up for fantastic prizes all week long.

Mark your calendar for The PRoducer Summit, December 10-11, 2011 “Seize the Day” and attend the The Producer Summit on December 10-11, 2011, at the Radisson in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. Take the opportunity to invest time to learn, network and bring valuable tools back to your farm business. For more information go to www.accelgen.com, call 800.451.9275 or email Kari Stanek at kstanek@accelgen.com.

News

Accelerated Genetics Wins Coveted 2011 Governor’s Export Achievement Award the companies serve as excellent examples of how to succeed in international markets and proved they could prosper despite the ups and downs of the global economy. Accelerated Genetics was recognized for being a top agricultural exporter, conducting half of its business outside the country. Since the company sold its first order of semen internationally in 1957, the cooperative has kept the philosophy of ‘customer needs come first.’ “Being recognized for our achievement in export marketing helps solidify Accelerated Genetics’ presence,” explains Joel Groskreutz, President and CEO of Accelerated Genetics. “Today more than ever, the need to be diverse is critical to a company’s success, both domestically and internationally. Our vision is to be the producer’s first choice–first in service from talented professional individuals, first in solution-based products, and first in the development of customized, innovative programs. We’ve set our sights high, and it’s paying off!”

Joint Venture Features Montbeliarde and Normande sires Accelerated Genetics is pleased to announce a joint venture with Normande Genetics of Minneapolis, Minn., marketing a lineup of Montbeliarde and Normande sires imported from France. Gary Fassett, Vice President of Sales and Communication, sees this as another way to offer a new product line to our customers. “We brought in these genetics for two type of customers: grazing herds and those that implement crossbreeding,” Fassett said. Jerome Chateau, President of Normande Genetics, is the distributor for these breeds in the United States. He along with the sales staff at Accelerated Genetics chose two bulls of each breed for the first offering: 180NM00012 Royal Holl and 020NM00012 Redondo for the Normande, and 217MO00014 Onze JF and 217MO00020 Vibrato JB for the Montbeliard. Genetic Trends - August 2011

No Shottle , O Man or Goldwyn!

TOP TPI SIRES with Unique Pedigrees

014HO05639 CM 014HO05560 Emerald 014HO06090 Bowser

TPI %R

Sharky x Outside +2133 90 Marion x Lynch +2081 89 Jetstream x Boliver +2154 72

1.800.451.9275 • www.accelgen.com 80191