Notes From the Field

Max & Mandi’s Memo

In the foreword of his 1985 book Progress of the Breed, The History of U.S. Holsteins, Richard H. Mansfield wrote, “Few organizations devoted to livestock interests have achieved the sustained forward movement of the Association over such a long period of time. Through the years, the Association and the breed faced matching challenges and opportunities, but none equaled the last three decades.”

During the 36 years since this book was published, a multitude of new challenges and opportunities have arisen for Registered Holstein breeders. Much as they did in the decades prior, our members have risen to meet the challenges and take ahold of the opportunities presented.

Mansfield went on to write “It was during this time that the breeding of dairy cattle made the transition from an art to a science – that technological advances were readily introduced and implemented – that reliable genetic data and information became critical to improvement of the species – that industry integrity and credibility became an unqualified, fundamental hallmark for the Association to be able to serve its true purpose.”

The technological advances and reliable genetic data available to Holstein breeders today are certainly much greater than they were in the 1980s. Classification, production testing, and genetic evaluation were identified as core “tools of the trade” used by Holstein breeders on the back cover on Mansfield’s book.

These three areas of focus have continued to help the Holstein breed move forward in the 21st century, and Holstein Association USA offers easy ways for members to use all three tools. Our team of highly trained classifiers continues to provide unbiased evaluations of your herd for mating and management purposes. Contract classification is a cost-effective option for those who classify three or more times a year.

Data from genetic evaluations are made available in a variety of forms, both in print and online. Genetic testing services can also be purchased through Holstein Association USA. AgriTech Analytics (ATA) is a DHIA certified dairy records processing center that provides a wide selection of reports for farmers. A division of Holstein Association USA, ATA offers same day turnaround on data received from your service provider.

Classification, production testing, and genetic evaluation information are just a few of the products and services Holstein USA provides to members. These tools have all played an important role in improving the production efficiency of U.S. Registered Holsteins. With more technology and tools at producer’s fingertips than ever before, Holsteins are achieving new heights and making history.

We look forward to the summer and continuing to serve our territories. Call us if you need anything!

Max & Mandi

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Max Dunseth Regional Sales Representative - HAUSA 269-251-0232 • mdunseth@holstein.com

Mandi Kipp Regional Sales Representative - HAUSA Upper Peninsula of Michigan 920-530-5023 • mkipp@holstein.com