August 2010 Dairy Horizons by GENEX

Horizons AUGUST 2010

Put Your Best Foot Forward

Incorporate Quality Genetics Provide Optimum Care ■ Master Mastitis ■ Consider the Value of Sexed Semen ■ ■

MGD: All-Riehl Throne Prime-ET VG-88, VG-MS

Dam: Kings-Ransom Ramos Ekky-ET, VG-85, VG-MS

1HO09800

ERDMAN %-I

Planet x Ramos x Bullet

+$735 Lifetime Net Merit +6.9 Productive Life +2.1 Daughter Pregnancy Rate +2.63 Somatic Cell Score

1HO10064

TORNADO

Michael x Judd x Adam

+$710 Lifetime Net Merit +6.0 Productive Life +3.3 Daughter Pregnancy Rate 6% Sire Calving Ease

WILTON

Active x Wizard x Rudolph

+$627 Lifetime Net Merit +6.2 Productive Life +2.8 Daughter Pregnancy Rate +0.10% Fat

PROPER

Planet x Elegant x Throne

+$627 Lifetime Net Merit +1896 PTA Milk +2.48 PTA Type +2.21 Udder Composite

Dam: Dool-Leigh Outside Piper, EX-92, EX-MS, 2E

Dam: Pine-Tree Missy Winnie-ET, VG-87, VG-MS

1HO10070

1HO10041

1HO10069

RED-OAK

Baxter x O Man x BW Marshall

+$620 Lifetime Net Merit +2.16 PTA Type +2.12 Foot & Leg Composite +1381 PTA Milk

1HO10059

CLARK

Goldwyn x Outside x Charles

+$561 Lifetime Net Merit +4.20 PTA Type +2.91 Udder Composite +2.52 Foot & Leg Composite +6.4 Productive Life

Do a a Double Double Take! Take! Do New Releases Worth a Second Look!

T able of contents

Horizons August 2010 Vol. 16/No. 3 Published three times a year for dairy producers around the globe.

Address correspondence Cooperative Resources International 117 E. Green Bay Street, P. O. Box 469, Shawano, WI 54166 info@crinet.com

888.333.1783

www.crinet.com

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Duane J. Nelson, President Winthrop, Minn., 507.647.2540

Jimmy Franks, 1st Vice President Waynesboro, Ga., 706.437.0527

John J. Ruedinger, 2nd Vice President Van Dyne, Wis., 920.922.9899

Paul Greene, Secretary Berlin, N.Y., 518.658.2419

Jacques Couture Westfield, Vt., 802.744.2733

Jim Crocker Valley City, Ohio, 330.483.3709

Jon Wayne Danielson Cadott, Wis., 715.289.3860

Kay Olson-Martz Friendship, Wis., 608.564.7359

Bobby Robertson Tahlequah, Okla., 918.456.2357

Ronald Totten Stafford, N.Y., 585.344.0758

Clarence Van Dyke Manhattan, Mont., 406.282.7579

Richard Vold Glenwood, Minn., 320.634.4665

Alfred Wanner, Jr. Narvon, Pa., 717.768.8118

HORIZONS EDITORIAL BOARD Members Raymond Diederich, De Pere, Wis. Pat Dugan, Casa Grande, Ariz. Gerald Evenson, Mora, Minn. Dave Loewith, Lynden, Ont., Can. Harold Shaulis, Somerset, Pa. Employees Angie Coburn, Dairy Procurement Manager Ron Hanson, Area Sales Manager, Vt.

Perspective

4 Put Your Best Foot Forward

GRASSROOTS

5 Genex Directors Put Their Best Foot Forward

Genomically Speaking

6 Genex to Launch Genomic 3K Test Pilot Project

7 Producer Perspectives on Genomic Genetics

In the News 10 DG29™ Bovine Blood Pregnancy Tests 12 Ziese Reaches the 3 Million Unit Level 13 Intern Input 14 Photo Contest Winners Announced

SIRE SPOTLIGHT 15 1JE00654 ALLSTAR and 1HO09167 O-STYLE

Best Foot Forward 18 Stay Ahead of the Game with Animal Welfare 20 Simply the Facts – SCC and SCS 21 Controlling Somatic Cell Counts 24 The Value of Sexed Semen 27 Sorting Through to What’s Right for You

Value of Genetics 29 Synch Success 30 Making It Their Own 31 Quality for Generations

Aimee Itle, Area Program Consultant-Apprentice, Pa. Sarah Thorson, Training Programs Manager

HORIZONS STAFF Jenny L. Hanson, Editor, jlhanson@crinet.com Angie Kringle, Assistant Editor, akringle@crinet.com Amy Seefeldt, Graphic Designer

REPRINTS Material may not be reproduced in any fashion without Cooperative Resources International’s permission.

Cover: The Rocky Mountains provide a scenic backdrop for calves at Shelton Land & Cattle Co. in La Salle, Colo. Read more about this dairy and how quality genetics impact their reproduction program on page 29.

Master Mastitis p.21

Provide Optimum Care p.18

Incorporate Quality Genetics p.6

HORIZONS

PERSPECTIVE

Put Your Best Foot Forward By: Doug Wilson, Chief Operating Officer, Genex For three decades, my responsibilities centered on developing, operating and communicating about dairy genetics programs. Throughout that time, many speeches were delivered … Implementing Indexes on the Farm … Genetics is a Long-Term Decision … The Cow in Fourth Place is Simply Too Tall … but the dairy genetics industry has changed drastically and these past speeches have all been put in the waste paper basket. There is a new game in town now and it should be totally revamping your approach and mental attitude about genetics.

A New Era

To date, genomics has had the largest single impact on genetic programming and improvement opportunity since the computer itself. Overnight, we advanced three years in genetic improvement with yearling sires as mating sires and genomic-proven sires readily available in the marketplace. Those members who have taken full advantage of the genetic surge offered through genomic sires have separated themselves from the rest of the industry and set the stage for real phenotypic improvement when those daughters begin production. The advantage will be visible in real dollar profitability - Lifetime Net Merit $. The next step in genomics holds incredible excitement for members. The 3K chip, now arriving on the scene, is reasonably priced and will take genomics to the herd management level.

It’s Time to Revamp Your Genetic Program

When the two technologies of genomics and sorted semen are combined, members need to seriously consider revamping their genetic program to put their best foot forward. A few quick thoughts: 1. The 3K chip will allow you to know, with reasonable certainty, the genetic results of a mating within 12 to 14 months after the cow is bred. The genetic investment question that has been a three year wait can now be answered in 12 months. This means you can make big decisions early.

HORIZONS

2. When combining GenChoice™ and the 3K chip, you can decide what cows and heifers to breed for replacements. The rest of the herd can have an entire range of “best use” and “most profit” scenarios (selling heifers, export of heifers, top quality beef crosses, etc). 3. Low culling levels should no longer be the ultimate goal. Higher culling levels can reduce health costs, improve somatic cell count, reduce foot care, etc. Obviously, the costs to raise replacements are different by herd and must be balanced. 4. Customized genetic goals will be key. For some producers, focusing on a few individual traits may help to maximize profits. A majority of producers will find using Lifetime Net Merit thresholds to be important. Genomic mating programs will be very interesting. Within this edition of Horizons are many educational pieces and programs Genex has developed to help members utilize and combine these two technologies (genomics and GenChoice) to increase herd profits. We are actively involved in current pilot projects and additional program development that will add great value. This fits perfectly with the Genex board of directors’ 2009 adopted strategic plan that features technology adoption by the cooperative and members. Genetic programming is not business as usual. As a producer, you must be on the front edge of adopting these new technologies at the herd management level. Genex is dedicated to helping you integrate and customize these concepts for your herd.

G RAS S ROOTS

Genex Directors Put Their Best Foot Forward John Ruedinger and his wife Karen are the owners of a progressive dairy in Van Dyne, Wis. The latest expansion, completed in early 2009, saw the dairy grow from 650 cows to 900. The expansion included additional animal housing, feed storage renovations and an expanded milking parlor for the herd which averages over 29,000 pounds of milk on three times-a-day milking. Ruedinger is proud to be the third generation in his family committed to the cooperative system of business. For many years, he and his family have utilized cooperatives’ products and services and have been active in local as well as national cooperative work. Ruedinger has over 20 years of cooperative governance participation as he was first elected to the 21st Century Genetics (a predecessor of Genex) board in 1989. In addition to Genex involvement, Ruedinger served on the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin board of directors and Fond du Lac County’s Forage Council board of directors. He also hosted numerous University of Wisconsin-Extension education events and served as a host farm for the 2007 Midwest Dairy Challenge. Genetically, Ruedinger Farms puts its best foot forward through the use of 90th percentile Lifetime Net Merit (LNM) sires proven through traditional or genomic methods. High LNM sires gives Ruedinger confidence he is advancing his herd’s genetic potential and allows for lower cull rates, reduced vet costs and more pounds of milk per cow. Ruedinger also takes animal welfare very seriously, a topic which encompasses management, employees and facilities. Employees are trained in proper animal handling techniques, facilities provide the ultimate in cow comfort and cows are fed the highest quality feed possible. All of these efforts provide a greater opportunity for success.

The farm in Stafford, N.Y., where Ron Totten and his family operate their dairy, was first purchased by Totten’s father in 1948. In 1972, the Totten family incorporated their family-owned dairy and became Hy Hope Farms, Inc. Today, as the third generation of the family prepares to take over the operation, the farm houses 620 milking animals and includes 1800 acres of land. As a Genex director, Totten focuses on improvements for the future by voicing his opinion in cooperative governance. While he first became a delegate merely to learn more about the co-op, Totten has now served as a director since the mid 1990s. Complete service from Genex puts the reproductive program at Hy Hope Farms one step ahead. Local Genex representatives conduct daily walk-and-chalk heat detection and provide artificial insemination service with conventional and GenChoice™ semen. Mating service through Mating Appraisal for Profit™ ensures effective use of top genetics in building more profitable cows and Reproductive Profit Manager™ benchmarking allows for the identification of problems and implementation of solutions. To help advance their heifer population, sexed semen – both GenChoice 90™ and GenChoice 75™ - has been incorporated into the dairy’s heifer reproductive program. The Tottens are also in the process of compiling animal welfare standard operating procedures (SOPs) to earn certification from the New York State Department of Agriculture & Markets. Portraying the “good” in the dairy industry comes through community involvement efforts. Hy Hope Farms has participated in “Dairy Days” in conjunction with Genesee County Farm Bureau. The Dairy Days program brings elementary schools to the farm to give them a firsthand look at a modern dairy operation. The family is also working closely with Cornell University to assist students in preparing for the 2010 Northeast Regional Dairy Challenge competition. ©2010 CRI

HORIZONS

G E N O M I C A L LY S P E A K I N G

Genex to Launch Genomic 3K Test Pilot Project With member profitability in mind, Genex will maintain its leadership role in the genomic era by launching a 3K genomic test pilot project within the U.S. With positive input from Genex delegates surveyed last fall, a development team has been organized to lead the pilot project and to establish efficient operational procedures for Genex to offer 3K genomic testing services to its members and customers. “Genex was the first artificial insemination organization to fully embrace and integrate marketing programs with genomics,” states Doug Wilson, Genex Chief Operating Officer. “Genex intends to remain a leader in this area so members can reap the benefits of the 3K chip and better determine the role of each cow or heifer in the future of their herds.” Knowing genomics would improve the profitability of members, Genex took the lead in factually educating dairy producers about genomics prior to the public release of genomic evaluations. Since those January 2009 sire evaluations, Genex has remained committed to educating producers and positively promoting this revolutionary tool. “Throughout history, every new technology challenged traditions and created public debate; genomics was no exception,” notes Wilson. “But genomics is as powerful as all the discussion indicated. This technology has and will continue to revolutionize the industry.” While sires proven genetically elite through genomic testing with the 50K chip have been used to increase genetic levels of herds throughout the past year and a half, producers have eagerly anticipated the widespread commercial release of the 3K chip. This new genomic technology will allow dairy producers to apply more selection intensity on females and further increase genetic progress. Furthermore, concepts like the Genex Calf Math™ program (calfmath.crinet.com) as well as new herd management developments to better rank and mate genomic tested animals will enable producers to fully utilize genomic results to increase herd profitability.

HORIZONS

G enomically S peaking

Producer Perspectives on Genomic Genetics Producers share their opinions on genomics and how they utilize genomic-proven sires in their reproductive programs.

Back to the Basics Each cell within a bovine contains 30 chromosomes. The chromosomes contain strands of DNA. DNA consists of pairs of nucleotides (those little letters). The sequence of those 3 billion nucleotides contains all the instructions for the bovine body. The different sequences of nucleotides between animals in a population are what makes some animals better than others.

Chromosomes

Two 1HO02565 CASSINO %-I calves at Dyecrest Dairy in Colorado.

DNA

Dycrest Dairy

Fort Collins, Colorado

Nucleotides Cell

Genomic selection is the process of combining information from a large set of genetic markers with traditional genetic evaluations to select the best animals. What are genetic markers? The genetic markers are the variations in a nucleotide sequence. How is the information from the genetic markers gathered? Blood, hair, semen or tissue samples are collected and DNA is extracted. The DNA is placed on a chip that examines the genetic markers. The USDA conducted research to determine which genetic markers are informative for calculating genomic evaluations. The USDA first analyzed DNA from thousands of bulls that had semen collected throughout the past 40 years. The associations observed between the genetic markers and the known genetic abilities of these highly reliable, progenyproven sires made it possible to identify the markers that impact the genetic traits measured today. Now, genomics has made a large impact on the dairy genetics industry because analyzing a calf’s DNA can better determine the animal’s genetic ability and can do so with a higher reliability than parent averages.

Before the public release of genomics, Dycrest Dairy took part in a Holstein study group. According to Amanda Dye, they had four Shottle daughters genomic tested as fairly young heifers. The cows, now in their second lactation, are each living up to their individual genomic evaluations. For Dye, these Shottle littermates were the first indication of what to expect from genomics. “The cows’ genomic information and performance data are dead on,” explained Dye. “Traits like Daughter Pregnancy Rate really show through.” As for genomic-proven sires, they were incorporated into the herd’s reproductive program as soon as they became available. In fact, for several months now all calves born on the dairy have been sired by genomic-proven sires. “We started using genomic-proven sires as early as we could. We use them for that genetic boost.” To get that genetic boost, service sires chosen for the dairy’s reproductive program must meet strict genetic requirements - all sires are +$625 Lifetime Net Merit (LNM) or higher. They also must be positive for teat placement, greater than +1.0 for Productive Life and stand at approximately +1000 PTA Milk. Continued on page 8… ©2010 CRI

HORIZONS

G enomically S peaking …continued from page 7.

“We pick the very newest sires – about 25 – each proof run and use about 100 units of a sire,” added Dye. “Then, we stop and wait to examine the farm’s fertility data for an individual bull. If the farm’s records show the bull had good conception ability, we might use another 50 to 100 units.”

did a young sire. However, he does remain cautionary. “With 70 percent reliability levels, it’s still important not to use too much of any one bull. I use a fairly large group of genomic-proven bulls overall.”

While involved in several contract matings, Dyecrest Dairy has now had various females and bull calves tested. These additional genomic evaluations have solidified their expectations of genomics through real-world examples.

Rohe Dairy

“The proof is there,” explained Dye, “Even with the bull calves. The ‘thrifty’ bulls are the ones that come back with high genomic rankings for LNM and health traits.”

Richmond Farms, LLC North Collins, New York

At Richmond Farms in western New York, owner Chuck Richmond believes in genomic technology. “Seeing the bull studs use genomic-proven sires themselves in their procurement programs, seeing Holstein Association include genomic evaluations on their pedigrees, and seeing the research published by USDA allows me to be confident in genomics.” Prior to the availability of genomic-proven sires, Richmond utilized a combination of progeny-proven sires and young sires in his herd. “I have always used some young sires. And, using genomic-proven sires is similar to using young sires, but with improved information. With that added information, the genetics of the genomicproven sires should be better.” Today, Richmond looks for good bulls whether progenyproven or genomic-proven. “I work off the top of both lists to get the best genetics possible.” The value he places on genetics is evident through quick examination of a few genomic-proven Genex sires that have been included in his reproductive program: 1HO08784 FREDDIE %-I (now with milking daughters), 1HO2848 PARKER, 1HO09167 O-STYLE, 1HO2771 JOCK %-I, 1HO09527 MASSEY and 1HO02565 CASSINO %-I. When comparing the use of genomic-proven sires today to young sires in the past, Richmond uses a little more semen from an individual genomic-proven sire than he

HORIZONS

Freeport, Minnesota

In January 2009, Mike Rohe of Rohe Dairy in central Minnesota knew that by using genomic-proven sires he was accessing genetics that otherwise would not have been available for several months or years until the bulls had milking daughters. “We started using genomicproven sires because their genetics are a step ahead,” commented Rohe, “And we’ve continued using them.” From the beginning, Rohe has remained confident in genomic sires. “First of all, genomic-proven bulls are way better genetically than the average herd bull. Secondly, their proofs are just as stable as any other bull – some will have proofs that go up, some will go down and some will remain fairly constant.” With that thought in mind, it’s not really the sire proving method that makes a difference to Rohe - it’s the genetic level of the bull. “We look to improve milk, fat, feet, legs and udders. We use whatever bull will meet those criteria whether he is daughter proven or genomic proven. We’re not fussy about how they were proven.” Genomic-proven sires have been easy to incorporate into the dairy’s reproductive program. Neither their sire selection criteria nor how bulls are used within the reproductive program has changed. They simply use conventional semen, GenChoice 90™ and GenChoice 75™ from the best bulls available. One point of emphasis from Rohe in regards to genomics is the value of the cooperative’s GENESIS program. “We are years ahead of everyone else. Through the GENESIS program, our cooperative owns many of the high LNM and high TPI™ genomic-proven females. These breed-leading cows and heifers are an excellent, cost-effective source of new high genetic merit sires for our cooperative.”

Investing in the

Future For our herd, And yours.

#1 LNM and GTPI cow

Since 1989, Genex has invested in the future with the GENESIS Cooperative Herd (designated by the CO-OP prefix). The principles of GENESIS are to develop high-ranking females who transmit the genetic characteristics of high profitability for todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dairy operations. Of the nearly 20,000 cows and heifers genomic tested in North America, GENESIS females dominate the industry rankings for Lifetime Net Merit (LNM), TPIâ&#x201E;˘ and Productive Life. Working in cooperation with Genex member herds, GENESIS develops elite females in an unbiased environment. These high-ranking cows prove their value as they sort themselves to the top of large commercial herds. These females are carefully mated, yielding the next generation of breed-leading CO-OP bulls that will generate more profit for your herd. Among the GENESIS program, you'll find the following standouts:

#1 LNM and GTPI Cow 3 of the Top 8 Cows for Productive Life 10 of the Top 50 LNM Cows with the CO-OP Prefix

Co-op Boliver Yoyo-ET

1HO09167

an Just-E

STYLE Om

Co-op O-

#1 Red Carrier Heifer for GTPI and LNM

ing progeny

with milk #2 LNM bull

USDA/08-10, HS-USA/08-10

Aerial view of the GENESIS facility, Shawano, Wis.

IN THE NEWS

DG29

â&#x201E;˘

Bovine Blood Pregnancy Tests

Test as early as 29 days post breeding for quick identification of open females! What is DG29?

DG29 is an easy-to-use bovine blood pregnancy test. Blood samples are drawn from cattle on the farm, forwarded to a certified laboratory (AgSource Laboratories in Menomonie, Wis.), and pregnancy diagnosis results are returned to the farm quickly and accurately.

When Can an Animal Be Tested?

The DG29 test can be conducted on cows or heifers as early as 29 days post breeding. Cows must also be at least 90 days post calving before blood samples are collected. Performing the DG29 test on cows less than 90 days post calving may result in false positive test results; the pregnancy-related protein from the previous pregnancy may still be present. DG29 can also be used for pregnancy diagnosis of embryo transfer recipients if used on day 32 or later (embryo implanted at day 7 + 25 days = day 32).

How Accurate Are DG29 Test Results?

Research published in the Canadian Veterinary Journal has proven DG29 to be over 99 percent accurate. For the most accurate results, follow the blood collection timeline indicated above. To purchase DG29 test kits in the U.S., contact your local Genex representative, call customer service at 888-333-1783, or order online at profitshop.crinet.com. A Product of:

www.conception-animal.com 10

HORIZONS

ÂŠ2010 CRI

How Is the DG29 Test Offered?

The DG29 complete kit includes the required red-topped blood tubes, disposable needles, a needle holder and hazardous material shipping containers. The shipping of the kit to the dairy and the test analysis are included in the price. The complete kit is available in quantities of 24, 48, 72 or 144 blood tubes/tests. A second purchasing option includes only the required red-topped blood tubes and test analysis. This option is packaged in quantities of 48, 72, 144 or 288 tubes/tests and does not include the cost of shipping the blood tubes to the dairy. Individual needles, needle holders and hazardous material shipping containers are sold separately. All DG29 samples sent to the lab must be submitted in the CRI provided red-topped blood tubes. With both purchasing options, the member pays shipping charges to transport blood samples from the farm to the laboratory.

IN THE NEWS

Genex Farm Systems Adds New Territory Genex members and customers in northwest Wisconsin can rely on dependable service and long-term stability from a company that has a 56-year history in providing and servicing Harvestore® and Slurrystore® products! Genex Farm Systems is now the authorized Harvestore and Slurrystore dealer and service provider for producers in northwest Wisconsin. Farm Systems’ new territory includes the following counties: Douglas, Bayfield, Burnett, Washburn, Sawyer, Polk, Barron, Rusk, St. Croix, Dunn, Chippewa, Pierce, Pepin, Eau Claire, Buffalo, Trempealeau and Jackson. For more information call Genex Farm Systems at 1-877-778-2078 or e-mail farmsystem@crinet.com.

Genex Equity Redemption The Genex and CRI boards of directors have authorized the retirement of Genex equity for 1979, 1982, 1983, 1984 and 1985. For active Genex members, the equity retirement will appear as a credit on your billing. There are no tax implications on this retirement. All equity redemptions have been from qualified issuances with taxes paid at the time of their allocation. This is the official public notice of this retirement and former members must notify Genex headquarters for redemption of their equity. The board reserves the right to suspend redemption if cash flow needs of the cooperative are impaired. If there are any questions, contact Genex Controller Diane Patza at 715-526-7520. The Genex and CRI boards of directors are pleased to take this action to help dairy producers in this time of financial stress.

Dates Set for Delegate Meetings Delegates and alternates are encouraged and expected to attend the fall delegate meetings. Information gained from these meetings is important and highly valued by the board of directors and staff. Each meeting will begin at 10 a.m. and conclude by 2:30 p.m. More information will be mailed at a later date. The following are dates and locations for the meetings: Thursday, Oct. 7 - Las Vegas, Nev. Monday, Oct. 18 - Atlanta, Ga. Monday, Oct. 11 - Cleveland, Ohio Tuesday, Oct. 19 - Kansas City, Mo. Tuesday, Oct. 12 - Harrisburg, Pa. Tuesday, Oct. 26 - Alexandria, Minn. Wednesday, Oct. 13 - Syracuse, N.Y. Wednesday, Oct. 27 - Rochester, Minn. Thursday, Oct. 14 - Albany, N.Y. Thursday, Oct. 28 - Appleton, Wis.

Utilize an interactive, online marketplace to sell potload groups of cattle. Visit www.centrallivestock.com and click on TEAM for more information.

Facebook Fans

Want the latest cooperative news? Want to converse with other Genex members, customers and employees? Go to www.facebook.com/GenexCRI.

Shop Genex 24/7

HORIZONS

IN THE NEWS

Ziese Reaches the 3 Million Unit Level Art Marquez (left) of Marquez Dairy congratulates Bill Ziese, a Genex Area Sales Representative, for reaching a career milestone. Ziese recorded his 3 millionth unit of bovine semen sold which makes him only the second person in the industry to achieve this sales record.

Earlier this year, Bill Ziese, a Genex Area Sales Representative in the Chino, Calif., area, achieved a career milestone in the bovine genetics industry by reaching over 3 million units of bovine semen sold. According to the National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB), Ziese is only the second person in the United States to reach this level. Local cattle producers gathered April 21 to celebrate the accomplishment. Special recognition was given to both Ziese and Art Marquez of Marquez Dairy who purchased the record-making unit of semen.

Marquez Dairy Chino, California

The Marquez family dairy began in 1930. In 1976, they relocated from Norwalk, Calif., to Chino. Today, Art Marquez and his brother Marlon, both third generation producers on the family farm, manage the herd which includes 3,000 milking Holsteins. The herd averages over 80 pounds of milk and has a high BAA boasting many excellent cows. As youth, Art and Marlon both showed Holstein cattle at the state and national levels. Art was active in 4-H and FFA too, and achieved California’s highest recognition in both organizations.

At the event, Marquez spoke about the quality of service Ziese has provided to the dairy over the past 34 years. “In the many years of doing business with Bill, I never questioned the bulls he recommended, queried an invoice, counted the semen that was delivered or checked on the mating recommendations.” “Art’s statement was a testament to Bill’s professionalism,” noted Buck Buchanan, Genex Regional Marketing Manager. “Genex members and customers have truly benefited from the solid relationship Bill has built with them. On many farms, he has provided service to three generations. Through it all, he is committed to providing the best in professional service. Reaching the 3 million unit sales level is a great accomplishment and is the direct result of Bill’s integrity, honesty and outstanding knowledge of cattle genetics.”

Art graduated with honors from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo in 1999. During college, he also completed courses at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y., through a Cal Poly exchange program. After graduation, he became manager of the family business with guidance from his parents, Art Marquez Sr. and Bernadine.

Ziese, who resides in Upland, Calif., with his wife Norma, began his career in the dairy industry working for Adohr Farms in Santa Ana, Calif. He worked there both as a teenager and again after serving in the military. In 1966, he accepted a marketing position with the bovine stud Excelsior Breeding Service and held that position until its closure in December 2001. In 2002, he joined Genex and during his tenure with the cooperative has helped lead and support the local team of Genex sales and service representatives.

The Marquez family has been a friend and customer of Bill Ziese since relocating to Chino. Ziese has mated their cows and heifers for 13 years and assisted in training and supporting their four in-house technicians. The technicians average 90 percent pregnant in their heifer program with GenChoice™ sexed semen used for a maximum of two services. Service sires in the milking herd include both genomic- and progeny-proven bulls in the 95th percentile for Lifetime Net Merit. Emphasis is also placed on PTA Type.

Throughout his career, Ziese has also taken an active role in promoting the dairy industry. He has held leadership roles in the Southern California Holstein Association, managed California Holstein Association convention sales, and served as banquet chairman for the NAAB convention held in southern California.

HORIZONS

IN THE NEWS

Intern Input Eighteen students from across the United States held summer positions within the cooperative’s genetics, production and marketing divisions. Here, six interns share what they gained from the experience.

Abby Udermann

Claire Tousley

Jon Abrahamson

University of Minnesota Hometown: Sartell, Minn.

University of Wyoming Hometown: St. Anthony, Idaho

University of Wisconsin-River Falls Hometown: Princeton, Minn.

Dairy Genetics Intern

GENESIS Intern

Marketing Intern

What impresses you about Genex?

What have you learned this summer?

As a future veterinarian, I’ve found biosecurity standards to be intriguing and have learned a lot over the summer.

The fact Genex is a cooperative with customers in over 60 countries is proof our producers are making an awesome effort at working together.

Resha Jacquier

Scott Umble

Mikayla Krause

Delaware Valley College Hometown: Southwick, Mass.

Penn State University Hometown: Atglen, Pa.

University of Minnesota Hometown: Milmine, Ill.

It is very interesting to see where genomics is going and watch Genex continue to embrace this technology to the fullest.

Marketing Intern

What have you learned this summer?

It's exciting to see the area farms. It has given me a good insight on different methods of farming in the Northeast.

Marketing Intern

What have you learned this summer?

Customer service can go so far. The relationship between customer and technician can make a huge difference.

What impresses you about Genex?

Sire Production Intern

What impresses you about Genex?

I’m amazed at how departments depend on each other. From collection to distribution to genetics, it all fits together.

HORIZONS

I n T H e N ews

Horizons Photo Contest Winners

2010

New in 2010, Genex Facebook fans were given a voice in judging the Horizons photo contest. Genex employees, members and customers weighed in and the winners are as follows:

Grand Champion

The Dairy Future Jim Roney, Owen Sound, Ontario Jolene Braegelmann, Cold Spring, Minn.

Reserve Champion

Genex in Action Mary Pair, Dublin, Texas Ashley Mikshowsky, Bangor, Wis. Reserve Champion

Thanks to all who submitted entries. Keep your cameras ready to capture the perfect shot for next year’s photo contest!

HORIZONS

Grand Champion

S ire S P O T L I G H T

ALLSTAR: Combining the Best of Sunset Canyon 1JE00654 Sunset Canyon Anthems ALLSTAR-ET is the result of years of concentrated breeding efforts and hard work from Sunset Canyon, a 200-cow dairy with a prefix well-known throughout the United Trinity’s All Star Melody States and around the globe. The story of ALLSTAR can be attributed to what owner, Eric Silva, refers to as, “a planned combination of the two most influential cow families at Sunset Canyon.”

Combining Maid’s Magic

The paternal granddam of ALLSTAR, Tenn Haug E Maid, EX-93% is a remarkable individual even today at 18 years of age. ALLSTAR transmits her tremendous cheese yield without compromising frame or strength.

Adding Award-Winning Anthem

On the bottom half of the pedigree is Sunset Canyon MBSB Anthem-ET, EX-95%, the granddaughter of Goodnow Midnight Blue, a foundation cow purchased by Silva at the start of Sunset Canyon. “Anthem is a member of a seventh generation Excellent cow family and the second cow to produce more than 30,000 pounds (13,608 kgs) of high-component milk,” stated Silva. In addition to her production capabilities, Anthem has taken home prestigious titles in the show ring including National Jersey Futurity winner in 2000 as well as 2000 All-American Premier Performance Cow. With the many strengths of ALLSTAR, he truly has a fit in any breeding program. Scott Carson, Genex Dairy Procurement Specialist, recommends the following mating suggestions to achieve maximum success, “Use ALLSTAR to add style, dairyness, components and health traits. You can also trust him to improve Cheese Merit without compromising type.”

O-STYLE: Healthy Habits for Generations Debuting in January 2009, 1HO09167 Co-op O-STYLE Oman Just-ET *TV was one of the sires that caused genomic excitement across the industry. This graduate of the GENESIS program boasts superior Dam: Kings-Ransom TM Deva CRI-ET, VG-88, VG-MS +$706 Lifetime Net Merit while excelling in health traits with +2.75 Somatic Cell Score, +5.7 Productive Life and +1.8 Daughter Pregnancy Rate.

Family Tradition

O-STYLE’s maternal line is dedicated to production. PenCol Mtoto Dima-ET, VG-86, DOM, granddam of O-STYLE, completed three lactations in her lifetime, all over 35,000 pounds (15,876 kg) with the highest production occurring during her third lactation at 7-02, 365 days, 45,430 pounds

milk, 3.8, 1723 fat and 2.9, 1325 protein (20,607 kg milk, 781 fat and 601 protein). Production like this flows through the pedigree of this family from Pen-Col Farms in Millville, Pa. For three generations, each cow produced at least one lactation over 33,000 pounds (14,969 kg)! A legacy like this is what led to the purchase of Teamster embryos from this terrific cow family. Those two Teamster embryos resulted in Kings-Ransom TM Deva CRI-ET, VG-88, the dam of O-STYLE.

Best is Yet to Come

This is not the last you will hear about this sire or his family. As O-STYLE added milking daughters to his proof this August, he has solidified his standings. Meanwhile maternal brothers and sisters are making waves in the GENESIS program. You don’t have to wait to reap the benefits of these genetics – ask your Genex representative about making O-STYLE a part of your breeding program today!

HORIZONS

PROOF HIGHLIGHTS

Raise Your Genetic Expectations The Genex lineup has profit power in the top percentiles. In the 99th percentile for Lifetime Net Merit (LNM) are 16 sires. From 1HO08784 FREDDIE %-I at +$794 LNM to 1HO09952 KARSTEN B/R %-I at +$616, this well-rounded group of daughterproven and genomic-proven sires has so much to offer. Schmidts Ponderosa Freddie 4660

Expand your genetic selection criteria to the 98th percentile and add five more elite bulls to the mix including high fertility sire 1HO09728 CARCAJOU, the well-known 1HO02565 CASSINO %-I, Toystory son 1HO02468 BINAS %-I, red carrier 1HO02480 CAMARY ISY *RC and the new release with an all-round good proof 1HO10028 FLOYD. Adjusting sire selection criteria to the top five percent of the breed provides many profit-packed options - a whopping 47 sires to choose from! With nearly 50 sire choices, there’s a sire to meet every producer’s genetic demands. Raise your genetic expectations and reap the benefits of a better herd.

Your Progeny-Proven Sire Source Genex is home to five of the top eight progeny-proven LNM Holstein sires: FREDDIE %-I, 1HO09167 O-STYLE, 1HO08778 SUPER, 1HO08777 AWESOME and 1HO08658 LOGAN. With the August sire summary, both FREDDIE and SUPER solidified their positions while adding new scored daughters to their type evaluations. FREDDIE maintained his status as the breed’s #1 LNM and #1 TPI™ sire. SUPER stands strong as the #2 TPI sire.

Demand More from Your Herd

Collins Knoll Super 689

Five more months of productive life isn’t too much to ask for. In fact, each positive point of Productive Life equals one additional month of longevity and Genex has 32 sires over +5.0 Productive Life. No need to sacrifice profitability for longevity either as 22 of those sires rank in the 95th percentile for LNM! For those with greater expectations, 15 sires stand at +6.0 Productive Life or higher!

Get 'Em Bred in a Timely Fashion Help yourself improve reproduction through genetic selection for Daughter Pregnancy Rate (DPR). Create females with the added ability to get bred - utilize the 10 sires in the active lineup over +2.5 DPR. Seven of those 10 are in the 95th percentile for LNM!

Jersey Udder Delight With outstanding type, beautiful udders (+3.81 JUI™), tremendous components and a knack for fertility (+5.5 Sire Conception Rate), 1JE00654 ALLSTAR has gained faithful fans around the globe. Udder improvement in the Genex lineup doesn’t end there. 1JE00711 PLUS leads the Norse Star All Star N2506 VG-84% lineup for JUI and ranks among the best in the breed at +5.13. 1JE00742 GOBBLER follows at +4.97. Completing a solid lineup of udder improvers are 1JE00726 JAVELIN, 1JE00672 GOOSE-PR and 1JE00700 LEXICON at +3.06, +3.08 and +3.41, respectively. 16

HORIZONS

Breeding for the Herd of Tomorrow

nT r

Productive Life 22%

Pro d

tio

Protein 16%

Health Trait s

Fat 19%

SCS -10% . 4%

Co mp FL

tio n

Udder Comp. 7%

17%

4 8%

for

y $ 5% g Abilit

-6

Calvin

y od

e Siz

DPR 11%

When it comes to profitability for your next generation, rely on the Lifetime Net Merit (LNM) index. LNM identifies bulls with genetics for low maintenance, easy milking, reproductively sound, mobile, long-living daughters. Genex has always utilized LNM as the index to improve herd profitability. Then fine tune your sire choices by focusing on the trait that could use the most improvement. Improving Productive Life will help increase herd longevity. Daughter Pregnancy Rate will help improve daughter fertility. Improving daughter fertility can help decrease the number of days open and improve the overall profitability of your dairy.

B est F oot F orward

Stay Ahead of the Game with Animal Welfare By: Marcia Endres, Associate Professor, University of Minnesota Animal welfare has been in the headlines. But what exactly is animal welfare? According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, “Animal welfare refers to the state of the animal. Ensuring animal welfare includes consideration of all aspects of animal wellbeing, such as proper housing, management, nutrition, disease prevention and treatment, responsible care, humane handling, and, when necessary, humane euthanasia.” Most dairy producers are already doing the right things in relation to dairy well-being, but how do consumers know that? Here are a few options for putting your dairy’s best foot forward in the public eye.

Be Proactive

Enroll in the FARM program. Launched in the fall of 2009, the National FARM (Farmers Assuring Responsible Management) Dairy Well-Being program from the National Milk Producers Federation and Dairy Management Inc. has a goal of documenting for retailers and consumers what most dairy producers are already doing in relation to animal care. The program includes three stages: 1) education and self-assessment, 2) evaluation, and 3) third-party verification. For the second stage, each farm will be evaluated once every three years by a second party evaluator, who could be the herd veterinarian or milk co-op field personnel. A statistical sample of all dairy farms on the program will be selected every year, starting in late 2011 or 2012, to have third-party verification by a representative who is not involved with the dairy. Areas assessed in the FARM program include standard operating procedures, training and record keeping, calf care, animal health, nutrition, environment and facilities, handling, movement and transportation, special needs animals, and dairy beef. The recommended best practices or guidelines are summarized in the Quick Reference User Guide, and more detail is provided in the animal care manual, both available at the FARM website: www.nationaldairyfarm.com. Keep in mind some numbers suggested in the guide for outcome-based measurements (such as locomotion, hock lesion and hygiene scores) are only guidelines and not standards. When producers do the self-assessment or have the evaluation by the second party, there might be some practices that are not being done on the dairy. This provides an opportunity to further improve animal care. In the end everyone wins – the cow, the producer, and the consumer (who wants to be assured good care is the standard on farms).

Be Open

Tell your story via a website or social media (Facebook, Twitter, blogs), invite visitors to the dairy, hold picnics on the farm or get involved in outreach programs offered by local agricultural advocacy groups. Start with the youngest consumers by volunteering in classrooms at your local school or hosting field trips. Consumers need to see what a dairy farm is all about. What better way than to show them the business you are proud to operate?

HORIZONS

Be Thorough

Various stories of supposed animal abuse on dairy farms have been released to the media in recent months. Those stories can make consumers concerned about animal care on the farm. On May 26, Gary Conklin of Plain City, Ohio, was horrified to view undercover video footage of animal abuse shot at his family’s

B est F oot F orward

dairy, “We absolutely couldn’t believe it, we were devastated. I did not, nor did any family members, have any knowledge of what was going on.” Conklin shared his experiences with AgriTalk listeners last month. “It has been extremely difficult,” he says. Producers need to thoroughly screen job applicants. Once hired, it is important to know how the employee works with the animals. A written animal handling policy should be in place at all dairies. The animal handling procedures and policies need to be reviewed with each employee. Employees should be held accountable and know that a zero tolerance for animal abuse is in place. Any act considered inappropriate needs to be reported to management. It is also important to train new employees on animal handling practices and procedures. Some employees might feel uncomfortable working with a large animal like a dairy cow if they didn’t grow up on a farm. They should be taught that cows are, for the most part, very tame and have been selected for good temperament. Precaution around livestock is warranted, but there is no need to hit an animal that is behaving normally. Cows can easily be moved without yelling, hitting or prodding. Slow and quiet should be the rule when moving cattle. This concept needs to be taught to everyone. It will also help improve the health and productivity of the herd.

Tell Your Story Listed below are a few responses to questions and concerns voiced by the public. These key talking points help you relay the message that America’s dairy farmers are dedicated to providing consumers with safe, high-quality milk and dairy products. The commitment to quality also means caring for animals and the land.

Animal Care: Dairy cows receive regular medical care, including periodic check-ups, vaccinations and prompt treatment of illness. Dairy farmers depend on healthy cows for their livelihoods. They care for their herds by providing a nutritious diet, good medical care and healthy living conditions. Farmers bottle-feed calves individually to assure they receive good nutrition.

Environment: Dairy farmers work with government agencies and university researchers to develop new technologies aimed at conserving natural resources and protecting the environment.

Food Safety: Dairy farmers are committed to providing a safe, steady supply of dairy products.

Be Honest

Consumer concern for animal care is on the rise, and it is not going to go away. The majority of dairy producers provide optimum care and management of their animals. As an industry and an individual, we can be proactive showing consumers and retailers the real truth. ©2009 Dairy Management Inc.™

HORIZONS

B est F oot F orward

Simply the Facts – SCC and SCS By: Angie Coburn, Dairy Procurement Manager, Genex

What is the official regulatory limit for Somatic Cell Count (SCC)?

How can I improve my SCS

with genetic selection?

U.S. national standards for SCC are 750,000 cells/ml, with the exception being the State of California’s limit of 600,000. Globally, most other major dairy producing countries have a limit of 400,000.

What are the details of the new European Union (EU) export certificates regarding SCC? Starting October 1, 2010, all dairy processors who export products to the EU need to certify all milk originates from farms with a rolling three-month geometric mean1 SCC below 400,000. Previously, processors could co-mingle milk from different farm sources to meet this standard.

What is the typical average SCC among U.S. dairy herds enrolled in DHI testing? Average SCC for U.S. farms was 233,000/ml in 2009, and the U.S. herd statistics show a constant downward trend since 2005. The overall percentage of herds that exceeded 400,000 during 2009 was 18.9 percent.

How much does mastitis cost a producer? Industry estimates indicate losses of approximately $200 per cow per year due to reduced milk production, treatment costs, discarded milk and reduced milk quality premiums. Hidden costs of mastitis include decreased genetic advancement as well as premature culling and death.

How can I compare SCC and Somatic Cell Score (SCS)? SCC is shown on a log score, or per every 1,000 cells/ml. SCS is a uniform linear score of SCC as shown below. SCS 0.00 1.00 2.00 3.00 4.00 20

RANGE SCC (1000s/ml) 0-17 18-34 35-70 71-140 141-282

HORIZONS

SCS 5.00 6.00 7.00 8.00 9.00

RANGE SCC (1000s/ml) 283-565 566-1130 1131-2262 2263-4525 4526 & higher

USDA-AIPL2 routinely publishes sire rankings for predicted transmitting ability for SCS. These rankings provide producers an opportunity to select bulls on their ability to sire daughters with lower rates of subclinical and clinical mastitis. The average SCS is +3.00 for all bulls of all breeds. Bulls with SCS values below +3.00 are expected to sire daughters with lower SCC and less mastitis. In reverse, bulls with SCS above +3.00 will likely sire daughters with higher SCC and a greater incidence of mastitis. Industrywide, the approximate range for SCS is +2.40 to +3.50.

Should I use SCS as sole criteria for selecting which bulls I use as service sires in my herd? High production and more frequent rates of mastitis are genetically correlated. Therefore, if you select only bulls with low SCS, you will likely not be selecting for high rates of improved milk yield. It is a tricky balancing act to optimize milk yield and breed for lower SCS. Fortunately, the Lifetime Net Merit (LNM) index takes into account both the value of a bull’s PTAs for yield traits and SCS. SCS receives a 10 percent weighting within the LNM formula.

Are there other traits with strong relationships to SCS? Cows with high SCS tend to have greater difficulty achieving pregnancy. Thus, bulls with high SCS often have very low PTAs for Daughter Pregnancy Rate. On a positive note, there is a very strong favorable correlation between SCS and udder depth with shallow udders leading to lower SCS.

What’s the best way to improve my herd’s mastitis resistance and achieve lower SCS? While nothing can replace the role of management and preventative care in controlling mastitis, selection of bulls based on LNM with reduced SCS places emphasis on optimal yield and udder conformation.

1 Three-month geometric mean = cube root of (Month 1 x Month 2 x Month 3). United States Department of Agriculture-Animal Improvement Programs Laboratory

B est foot forward

Controlling Somatic Cell Counts By: Ron Curran, Manager, Market Development, AgSource

A Real Herd Example

When faced with a subclinical mastitis problem, the first inclination one might have is to cull your way to success. Some herd management software and Dairy Herd Improvement (DHI) reports actually list the cows to cull to reach your Somatic Cell Count (SCC) goal. These “Hot List” reports identify the percent of contribution each cow on the list makes to the overall bulk tank or herd SCC. If only life were so simple!

Look at the example DHI report below. The blue-colored “New” column, which denotes the percent of new infections, is the most sensitive indicator of change. The brown-colored column shows the herd’s Weighted SCC. While the Weighted SCC decreased from August 2009 to January 2010, the new infection rate was below 15 percent only twice during that period. Therefore, it is not surprising that over the next few months the Weighted SCC increased.

Individual cows with high SCCs fluctuate dramatically. The cow at the top of the “Hot Cow List” that produces 150 pounds of milk a day and has a SCC of 10 million could very well be down to a 600,000 SCC three days later. Also, SCC measuring equipment can fluctuate ±10 percent and still be in DHI-approved range.

Since March 2010, even though the SCC increased, the New Infection Rate has decreased which makes it likely the herd’s SCC will decrease in the future.

Producers who have used only these lists are amazed that on the next test day other cows with high SCC step up to replace the ones culled the previous month. Staying on this carousel means continually culling profitable cows that occasionally have high SCC.

The report also identifies the herd’s problem areas. Notice the orange-colored columns that indicate New Infection Rates at “1st test” for both first lactation heifers and second lactation and greater cows. These groups consistently have a large portion of animals in the 20th percentile range (shown across bottom of table). “Dry Period Failure to Cure” numbers and late lactation cows in their second or greater lactation are also problematic. None of these areas are showing consistent recent improvement. Therefore, special attention needs to be provided to these groups.

AgSource Cooperative Services has taken a different approach. We focus on preventing new infections. Every herd has chronically infected cows, and over time these cows will be culled because of low production or reproduction. At the same time, by limiting new infections, a producer can make long-term improvements in herd SCC. Even a producer who has to cull a significant number of cows immediately to get below a SCC limit needs to work towards prevention of new infections.

Continued on page 22…

Udder Infection Summary by Test Day Test Date

Num Wgt Cows SCC Sampled

Bulk Tank SCC

High ≥ 200 %

Num

New %

Num

First New Num

1st Test (5 - 40 Days) %

Num

New by DIM (First Lactation) 41 - 150 151 - 240 Days Days %

Num

> 240 Days %

Num

New by DIM (Second and Greater Lactation) 1st Test 41 - 150 151 - 240 > 240 Days (5 - 40 Days) Days Days

Chronic 2x ≥ 200

Dry Period Failure to Cure

Num

44 53 57 47 44 44 57 46 47 47 43 52

7/16 10/19 13/23 15/32 11/25 11/25 16/28 22/48 15/32 16/34 10/23 15/29

2.2 2.2 2.2 2.1 2.2 2.2 2.4 2.3 2.5 2.6 2.9 3.3

Num

7/12/2010 1055 406 319 27 290 14 110/809 67 29 16/55 8 14 9 9 6 7 18 17/39 13 16 8 6/14/2010 1032 419 352 26 264 12 94/784 62 24 15/62 4 6 5 5 13 17 31 15/48 12 13 7 5/10/2010 998 407 339 28 277 13 100/762 65 12 6/52 7 9 5 6 8 8 24 9/38 18 21 18 4/12/2010 965 312 256 25 239 12 91/737 60 21 10/48 8 10 8 8 10 11 29 10/34 13 16 15 3/8/2010 983 308 273 26 253 10 73/738 35 27 12/44 5 7 4 4 11 13 38 6/16 5 7 9 2/8/2010 978 310 249 27 263 11 82/714 33 27 9/33 3 4 6 6 11 12 25 4/16 9 14 14 1/11/2010 990 324 288 29 289 15 111/740 46 26 9/34 7 9 9 10 10 9 5 1/19 11 17 23 12/14/2009 992 316 316 28 276 12 85/687 46 27 14/51 3 4 6 6 12 10 33 10/30 9 14 8 11/9/2009 954 406 355 33 318 14 92/654 40 16 7/43 10 13 6 5 15 13 14 2/14 12 22 19 10/12/2009 960 421 355 35 337 15 95/626 35 19 7/37 7 8 11 8 19 15 28 11/40 10 15 19 39 367 18 108/589 54 15 5/33 10 10 8 5 15 12 33 15/46 18 24 17 9/14/2009 948 614 471 8/10/2009 955 780 687 43 411 21 127/598 60 40 17/43 16 18 17 10 15 14 33 14/43 17 20 20 Herd 12 Test Avg 986 419 355 30 14 50 24 7 8 12 27 12 14 80th Percentile 118 172 169 17 9 8 4 3 5 11 7 7 Average 117 270 267 26 13 18 8 7 10 19 12 12 20th Percentile 38 355 353 33 16 25 11 11 14 27 16 17 Wgt. SCC – mean weighted monthly average SCC for cows with a test > 4 DIM including CAR cows. Weighting takes into account milk production of the cow and somatic cell counts. Bulk Tank SCC – estimate of actual tank SCC; may include SCC for cows tested < 5 DIM, and exclude SCC for CAR coded cows whose milk is withheld from the tank and not sold. © 2008 Cooperative Resources International

7 6 19 16 9 15 27 7 14 12 9 13

% 31 16 21 12 19 26 40 31 29 31 39 32

Num 34 17 22 10 15 18 29 20 16 19 28 21

62 64 64 62 71 69 62 69 71 72 71 69

Num 180 170 177 148 180 181 178 191 226 242 259 284

Linear Score > L1 3.5 3.5 3.6 3.3 3.4 3.4 3.6 3.3 3.7 3.8 4.0 4.2

2.4 3.6

12 18

53 61

23 38

2.0 2.5 2.5 3.1

2.9 3.5

HORIZONS

Est. Monthly Milk Loss Lbs. 63802 64633 62502 60018 62071 64880 69899 73811 77380 84566 89814 96189 72464

BE ST FOOT FOR WAR D …continued from page 21.

Productive Life 1HO08784 FREDDIE %-I +7.8 1HO02711 JOCK %-I +7.3 1HO09800 ERDMAN %-I +6.9 1HO02827 DEWEY +6.8 1HO08521 DANGER +6.7 1HO02683 SEBASTIAN +6.6 1HO08778 SUPER +6.5 1HO10059 CLARK +6.4 1HO02517 DIESEL +6.3

Management Considerations to Reduce SCC

The next step in lowering new infection rates is to determine if the majority of infections are caused by the environment or if they are cow-to-cow infections. Individual cow milk cultures can answer this question. Be sure the cows chosen for culturing answer the question you are asking, “What are the major pathogens causing problems today?” Culturing longterm, chronically-infected cows will give a historical perspective, but we are not interested in solving last year’s mastitis problems. The goal is to find the cause of the most recent infections, so pick cows that are infected for the first time on the most recent test day. Since fresh cows were identified as a problem area for this herd, select some animals from that group. If the culture information indicates environmental infections are prevalent, the focus needs to be on overall cleanliness including clean bedding and clean aisles. It is also important to correctly post-dip teats. Cow-to-cow infection prevalence indicates the focus needs to be on preventing milking machine liner slips. This includes making sure milking equipment is functioning correctly and cows are prepped properly for letdown. Post-dipping the entire teat end with an approved product is also important for these infections. If possible, segregate infected cows. Moving from a mastitis control regime of treating infected cows and culling non-responders to a program focused on preventing new infections will save time, increase profits, lower the risk of antibiotic contamination and result in a higher quality product.

HORIZONS

1HO10070 WILTON +6.2 1HO02849 STU +6.2 1HO08631 LES +6.2 1HO10064 TORNADO +6.0

Daughter Pregnancy Rate 1HO08521 DANGER +3.6 1HO06360 WIZARD +3.6 1HO10064 TORNADO +3.3 1HO02759 MAR +3.3 1HO08631 LES +3.1 1HO08927 VARS %-I +3.1 1HO10070 WILTON +2.8 1HO02590 KASEY-P-RED +2.8 1HO08784 FREDDIE %-I +2.5 1HO02827 DEWEY +2.5

nT r

ts ai

Productive Life 22%

Pro d

tio

Protein 16%

Health Trait

Fat 19%

SCS -10% p. 4%

Co m FL

tio n

17%

for

Udder Comp. 7%

y $ 5%

s 48

-6

g Abilit Calvin

y od

e Siz

DPR 11%

Productive Life Each point in a bull's proof indicates one month longer productivity. Daughters of sires with +6.0 Productive Life are expected to live six months longer than daughters of average (+0.0) bulls. Choose from 13 sires (listed at left) over +$515 LNM and â&#x2030;Ľ +6.0 Productive Life Daughter Pregnancy Rate A DPR of +1.0 implies daughters of that bull are one percent more likely to become pregnant during that estrus cycle than daughters of a bull with an evaluation at zero. Choose from 10 sires (listed at left) over +2.5 Daughter Pregnancy Rate.

Utilizing the Strengths of Today

B est F oot F orward

Value of Sexed Semen for the Dairy Industry

The

By: Victor E. Cabrera, Assistant Professor and Extension Dairy Specialist, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Table 1. Important factors to consider in the evaluation of sexed semen Main Factor

Conventional Semen

Sexed Semen

Proportion of heifer calves

Lower

 Higher

Cost of semen dose

Higher

Conception rate (CR)

 Lower  Higher

Dystocia incidence

Higher

 Lower

Lower

Under the circumstances shown in Table 1, dairy producers may have a hard time deciding to use (or continue using) sexed semen and for how many services. All the main factors displayed are inter-related, which make the question of using sexed semen complex. For instance, the difference in CR will determine the number of pregnant and open heifers after each service, the number of heifer calves, and the potential heifer culls due to reproductive failure. All these factors impact the economics of the decision to use sexed semen. Figure 1 depicts the percentage of heifers becoming pregnant after successive services. Notice with conventional semen the number of pregnancies will be higher than with sexed semen; however, the number of heifer calves will be substantially higher from sexed semen. Interestingly, both reproductive programs have a very similar economic outcome. The conventional semen program will have lower culling because of reproductive failure and lower costs of operation. The sexed semen program will have higher returns because of the higher value of heifer calves.

45 heifer calves/100 heifers

100%

Conventional

80% Pregnant Heifers

Sexed semen is proven to increase the number of heifer calves and consequently lower incidence of dystocia. Sexed semen can be used with any dairy cattle in open reproductive status, but because of its higher cost and reduced Conception Rate (CR), it is primarily recommended for heifers which have naturally higher CR than adult cows.

Sexed Semen

60%

82 heifer calves/100 heifers

40% 20% 0% 0

Reproductive Service Number Figure 1. Pregnancy curves comparing conventional and sexed semen programs for dairy heifers through successive reproductive services.

Calculate the Value of Using Sexed Semen

The value of using sexed semen can be defined as the sum of the additional revenues and reduced costs minus the additional costs as well as revenues foregone. Value = + additional revenues + reduced costs - additional costs - revenues foregone Sexed semen brings additional value to the herd because of differential value of additional heifer calves and associated cost reduction of dystocia cases that are more prevalent with male calves. Additional costs include a premium price for sexed semen and expenses due to more services per conception. Reproductive programs that include a series of services must include the aggregation of the above factors for each of the reproductive services and because these services occur at different points in time, a correct analysis has to be performed using a discount rate that will bring all balances to present values.

Variables Involved in the Calculation

Variables in the evaluation of sexed semen can be classified as reproductive or economic. Reproductive factors are biological parameters related to reproductive efficiency including CR and the expected calf sex ratio. Economic variables include the value of the sexed semen dose, value of heifer and bull calves, expected costs for a dystocia case, cost of a day open, salvage value of a non-pregnant heifer, value of a heifer replacement and the market interest rate. 24

HORIZONS

B est F oot F orward

The following sexed semen evaluations use documented and current values. These should be used with caution and only as a reference to perform individual evaluations. Reproductive and economic variables should be farm specific. Each farm manager needs to reflect on costs and revenues expected for a farm’s particular conditions.

Reproductive Variables

According to extensive analysis of Holstein heifer reproductive records in the U.S., it is safe to assume the CR for first service of a 14-month-old virgin heifer would be 56 percent from conventional semen and 44.8 percent from sexed semen (20 percent reduction). It is also documented that the CR decreases about 2.5 percentage points with each additional service. The expected percentage of heifer calves from conventional semen is about 46.7 percent and about 89 percent when using sexed semen (Table 2). Table 2. Baseline reproductive variables to evaluate sexed semen Heifer Reproductive Conception Rate (%) Heifer Calves (%) Program Conventional semen

56.0

46.7

Sexed semen

44.8

89.0

Baseline costs and revenues for each of the economic variables listed previously are shown in Table 3 below. Table 3. Baseline economic variables to evaluate sexed semen

Semen dose ($)

Calf value ($)

Conventional Semen

Sexed Semen

Heifer

Bull

300

0 Conventional and Sexed Semen

Cost of a day open ($)

2.40

Salvage value, 20-month non-pregnant heifer ($)

800

Replacement value 20-month pregnant heifer ($)

1,200

Interest rate (%/year)

Virgin heifers are enrolled in a reproductive program at about 14 months of age (first service). They will have up to five opportunities (services) to become pregnant. Normally, more than 95 percent will become pregnant after the fifth service. If not pregnant after the fifth service, they are culled for reproductive failure. Five sexed semen treatments can be evaluated. Each has a different number of services to sexed semen. The control uses conventional semen for all services (Table 4). Table 4. Conventional and evaluated reproductive programs using sexed semen. Repro 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th Program Service Service Service Service Service Control

Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional

Treatment 1

Sexed

Treatment 2

Sexed

Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional Sexed

Treatment 3

Sexed

Treatment 4

Sexed

Conventional

Treatment 5

Sexed

Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional Conventional

The Value of Sexed Semen

Economic Variables

Economic Variable

Reproductive Programs

In this example, heifers could bring up to $28.23 per heifer of extra net revenue when sexed semen is used in the first and second service (Treatment 2 = optimal treatment). This reproductive program would have 65.91 percent of heifer calves per heifer. Nonetheless, the use of sexed semen in Treatments 1, 3 and 4 still have a higher net revenue than using conventional semen (Table 5). However, using sexed semen for five services (Treatment 5) will not have a higher net revenue than conventional semen even though this program will bring as much as 82.02 percent of heifer calves per heifer (compared with only 45.40 percent heifer calves per heifer when using only conventional semen). Continued on page 26… ©2010 CRI

HORIZONS

B est F oot F orward …continued from page 25.

It is evident a substantially higher proportion of heifer calves are obtained using sexed semen, but the economic value of reproductive programs for heifers using sexed semen depends on a farm- and market-specific reproductive and economic variables. Table 5. The value of sexed semen and the percentage of heifers for different reproductive programs. 1 Service 2 Services 3 Services 4 Services 5 Services Treatment Sexed Sexed Sexed Sexed Sexed Net Return Compared to Conventional ($/heifer)

25.11

28.13

20.49

7.02

-9.74

Percentage of Heifer Calves (%/heifer)

64.02

65.91

78.40

80.88

82.02

An important variable is CR. An expected increase in CR from 56 to 70 percent in first service will increase the additional net revenue of sexed semen to $49.55 when used in two services (optimal reproductive program). Conversely, the decrease of CR to 40 percent in first service will decrease the optimal additional net revenue of sexed semen to $5.05 when used only in one service (that will become the optimal reproductive program). When the CR is assumed to be 40 percent, all other treatments (Treatments 2-5) have negative net returns. This indicates under low CR conventional semen would have higher net revenue than sexed semen when used in more than one service. Another important variable is semen cost. As sexed semen is more widely adopted, the cost of sexed semen may decrease. As depicted in Table 6, the optimal reproductive program changes depending on the price of sexed semen. In general, as the premium for sexed semen decreases, more services to sexed semen become the optimal alternative with the highest net revenue.

of sexed semen responds positively to the value of the heifer calf – the higher the calf value, the higher the net return of sexed semen. Also, a higher number of services with sexed semen would be recommended as the value of the heifer calf increases (Table 7). If the value of the heifer calf becomes too low (e.g., $100), the net return of using sexed semen could become lower than that of conventional semen. Table 7. Optimal net return of sexed semen at different values of heifer calf. Farm Heifer Calf Value ($/calf)

Optimal Treatment

Net Return of Sexed Semen Compared to Conventional ($/heifer)

500

3 Services to Sexed Semen

85.51

400

2 Services to Sexed Semen

55.95

200

1 Service to Sexed Semen

6.72

100

NONE

All Negative

A Decision Support Tool

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Dairy Management Team has created a free user-friendly, web-based tool to evaluate the adoption of sexed semen reproductive programs with heifers. This calculator should be used for farm-specific conditions to replicate analyses presented here. The Tool called "Economic valued of sexed-semen programs for dairy heifers" (Figure 2) is available at the UW-Dairy Management website www.DairyMGT.info under the Tools section. Along with the tool are detailed instructions, supporting documents and a video demonstrating its use. Support is also available upon request.

Table 6. Optimal net return of sexed semen at different costs of sexed semen dose. Sexed Semen Dose Cost ($)

Premium Above $15 Conventional Semen ($)

Optimal Treatment

Net Return of Sexed Semen Compared to Conventional ($/ heifer)

4 Serv. Sexed

65.97

3 Serv. Sexed

50.04

2 Serv. Sexed

38.11

1 Serv. Sexed

20.16

1 Serv. Sexed

15.21

1 Serv. Sexed

10.26

Another important variable is the value of the heifer calf. This may not only depend on market value. Often times, dairy farmers like to grow their herds from within or improve genetic quality faster through their own heifers. In those situations the value of the heifer calf would probably be higher than market value. The net return 26

HORIZONS

Figure 2. Screenshot of decision support tool to evaluate sexed semen reproductive programs for heifers. Available at www.DairyMGT.info : Tools.

B est F oot F orward

Sorting Through to What’s Right for You By: Jenny DeMunck, Support Program Manager, CRI

HELP!

Over 100 active Genex bulls? Genomics? GenChoice 90™? GenChoice 75™? Conventional semen? Choices, choices and more choices! I just don’t know what I should be using. I want to stay up to date with technology and it is all moving so fast. What should my breeding and genetic program strategy be?

If this is the way you feel you are not alone. These are common concerns asked on farms today. Having more product choices helps producers make more specific breeding goals but it can get confusing. Released in January 2010, Calf Math™ is a new tool to help find the right mix of conventional and sexed semen to meet your herd goals.

What is Calf Math?

Calf Math is a simple spreadsheet which helps you test how different semen usage strategies will affect your herd before you even make a semen purchase. Examples of herd goals could be creating higher quality replacements, expanding the herd, trying to achieve reproductive or other on-farm goals or finding new avenues to increase profits. Let’s take a look at two herd examples.

Herd 1: A 2400-cow dairy is looking at doing more

voluntary culling in the herd. What mix of semen will they need to maintain herd size if they increase their culling rate to 42 percent? By using Calf Math, they find that if they only want to use sexed semen in heifers they must use it at a 70 percent usage rate.

Herd 2: A producer with 1700 cows is looking to make faster genetic gain. He has identified a group of high genetic merit heifers and a group of high genetic cows. He is planning to utilize sexed semen to get more heifer calves out of his top genetics. Previously he used sexed semen for herd growth, but is no longer in expansion mode. His philosophy is not to make more replacements but to improve quality. By using Calf Math, he now knows to focus on the top 15 percent genetic merit cows and the top 65 percent of heifers to yield the proper amount of heifer calves. Table 1. Herd-Specific Inputs Herd 1

Herd 2

Number of Cows

1700

2400

Number of Breeding Age Heifers

680

930

Annual Cull Rate

33 percent

42 percent

Percent Annual Growth

0 percent

Table 2. Heifer Comparison Herd 1

Herd 2

Annual Dairy Heifers Needed

736

1,119

Number of Dairy Heifers Yielded

740

1,120

Herd 1

Herd 2

Table 3. Calf Crop Total Dairy Males Calves

580

744

Total Dairy Female Calves

740

1120

Check out Calf Math online at calfmath.crinet.com

HORIZONS

IF ONLY FINANCING WAS THIS MUCH FUN

Now it is – Simply purchase semen or arm service and take up to six months to pay.

Genex and Farm Plan™ know producers need payment terms that allow for better cash flow management. Therefore, Genex and Farm Plan have teamed up to provide unique finance options to meet the needs of your operation. The 180 program provides 180 days No-Payments/No-Interest.* Get what you need when you need it. Just say, “Put it on Farm Plan.” Contact your local Genex representative for more information on the 180 program.

*Subject to Farm Plan credit approval and merchant participation. Visit with your Genex representative for complete details. After the promotional period, interest will be assessed at the rate provided in the Farm Plan Credit Agreement. Farm Plan is a service of FPC Financial, f.s.b.

V alue of G enetics

Synch Success By: Jenny Hanson, Communications Manager, CRI Assistant Manager Mike McConaha and Dairy Operations Manager Dave Smith in the milking parlor at Shelton Land & Cattle Co. owned by Ron Shelton.

“We began utilizing SynchSmart™ as soon as we were made aware of it and have not backed off since. SynchSmart has proven itself. It is legit.”

Shelton Land & Cattle Co. in La Salle, Colo., has a good problem - “We are being forced to sell or cull pregnant cows because so few are open,” explains Dave Smith, Dairy Operations Manager. Smith credits the dairy’s success to a teamwork environment, a results- and reproduction-oriented focus, and the single concept that the cows come first.

Released in 2007, SynchSmart is an evaluation only available from Genex that indicates the conception ability of a sire when bred to synchronized females. With this dairy’s cow breeding program based on synchronization, service sires must meet the dairy’s requirement of +1.5 or higher for SynchSmart at ≥ 80 percent reliability. Over the past several years, the dairy has utilized enough high SynchSmart sires to know sires at +1.5 or higher give their reproduction program that extra boost.

Less Me, More We

While high fertility sires create more pregnancies, the dairy still demands those calves be long-lasting fertile animals that bring higher components. Therefore, Protein, Productive Life and outcross pedigrees are key sire selection traits too. Genex Area Sales Representative Kevin Spencer is also conscious of the Daughter Pregnancy Rate of sires used in the herd.

With so many individuals involved, running a successful reproduction program is a goal shared by many, and those at Shelton Land & Cattle Co. know quality teamwork comes from working towards a common goal.

Repro and Results

Teamwork is not a hoped-for ambition, but an actual part of daily life on the dairy. “We wouldn’t have had the success we’ve had without teamwork. Areas like reproduction involve so many people – the feeders, the breeders, those working with transition cows, etc.,” explained Smith.

“We are passionate about teamwork, especially related to our reproduction program, because reproduction affects the bottom line so much,” notes Smith.

Synching Smart

Creating a cattle reproduction program that produces an abundance of pregnant females is not only the result of teamwork; synchronization shot protocols and fertile sires play a large role too.

While the simple fact of being forced to sell or cull pregnant cows speaks for the success of the dairy in itself, the dairy team has several other reproduction goals in mind. The team strives for a 28 percent pregnancy rate and ≥ 70 percent true heat detection rate. These goals, though lofty, are attainable as current herd status includes a 27.1 percent pregnancy rate and a 65 percent heat detection rate. With teamwork, reproduction and results aligned, Shelton Land and Cattle Co. is positioned for continued success.

HORIZONS

V alue of G enetics

Making It Their Own By: Angie Kringle, Communications Specialist, CRI

Yme Zylstra with Genex Area Sales Representative Ben Hickerson.

It’s been about a decade since Yme Zylstra and his family moved to Antwerp, Ohio, from the Netherlands. In the past 10 years the Zlystras have grown their herd from 700 head to 1300 and customized every aspect of their farm to include procedures, equipment and facilities to fit the specific goals of their operation. With an eye on fertility and a specific protocol for sexed semen usage, this dairy’s management team has set themselves up for success for many decades into the future.

Zylstra's breeding goals include sires who are positive for components and increase milk production in daughters. Ben Hickerson, Genex Area Sales Representative, also noted, “Yme really watches the fertility scores.”

Extracting Ideas from Others

The Zylstras learned quickly the importance of taking advice and adapting it to their own needs. “When we came to the U.S. everyone recommended a six-row barn with a neck rail. When we built our next barn, we put in headlocks and if we were to build again, it would only be a four-row barn. For us, a six-row is too labor intensive and the headlocks really help with artificial insemination.” Even when away from the farm, the Zylstras keep their eyes open for ideas that can be adapted to their operation, “We were in Texas and visited a farm where they built their own pasteurizer for waste milk. We got a few ideas and drew up our own version. DeLaval built it to spec using a 100 gallon bulk tank.” To keep the reproductive program on track, Zylstra relies on the Genex Reproductive Profit Manager™ (RPM™) program. An RPM report is run quarterly and the dairy's management uses it to identify areas for improvement.

Breeding Philosophies

“We try to use the best bulls in the industry, regardless of the companies they come from,” stated Zylstra. “That being said, over half of our first lactation animals are bred to Genex sires. We have noticed better consistency with daughters of Genex bulls.” 30

HORIZONS

Success with Sexed Semen

The Zylstras have found success with sexed semen in heifers with all first and second services being performed to sexed semen. They have also incorporated sexed semen into the breeding program for their milking herd with astounding success. “First lactation cows with a good standing heat are bred to sexed semen. Our conception rate for sexed semen is actually higher than conventional semen on cows because we ‘cherry pick’ only the best to use it on,” indicated Zylstra. “One of the main reasons we use sexed semen is because of the easy calving on heifers. You can really see a difference on calving ease. I don’t want to spend two years raising a heifer and then pull a big calf; it seems like she never produces what she should after that.” By keeping a keen eye on their operation and fine-tuning suggestions from others, the Zylstras have made their dairy one of a kind.

GenChoice sires recently used at Zylstra Dairy are: 1HO09997 KARIM %-I 1HO09092 LAZARITH

1HO08658 LOGAN 1HO09208 SHAMPOO

V alue of G enetics

Quality for Generations By: Angie Kringle, Communications Specialist, CRI Less than 10 miles from Lake Huron in the ‘thumb’ of Michigan is where you will find Bob Shinn Farms. For the average passerby, the farm looks like many modern dairy operations in the region. But a visit with Bob Shinn reveals the cows and people that compose this dairy are anything but average.

High Quality for Generations

“We’ve been picking high quality bulls for generations,” revealed Shinn during an interview this summer. At the top end of the current milking string are daughters of 1HO07127 SHARKY, 1HO07235 TOYSTORY and 1HO07154 ENCINO. “We rely on the MAP™ (Mating Appraisal for Profit™) program to determine which sires are the best fit for individual cows. We use sires in the upper 90th percentile for Lifetime Net Merit, with positive Sire Conception Rates and Daughter Pregnancy Rates, and low Sire Calving Ease,” explained Shinn. “Through firsthand experience, we have been able to see the difference genetics can make.”

Same Standard of Excellence

As genomic sires entered the Genex lineup, they also entered the dairy’s breeding plan. The same high genetic standards were kept in place for the selection of genomic sires. “We started using genomic sires pretty quickly with quite a variety. We’ve used 1HO09315 ALABAMA, 1HO08777 AWESOME, 1HO09103 CABHI, 1HO08784 FREDDIE %-I, 1HO08778 SUPER and 1HO02565 CASSINO %-I among others,” Shinn reported. In 2005, the dairy was expanded from a 250-cow operation to the present day 700-head capacity. The new

barn was filled through purchasing heifers. Adding heifers with unknown pedigrees to the existing herd made the genetic difference very apparent, especially in the udders. Although the genetic background of the purchased animals is unknown, the same high genetic level sires are used on their breedings. Shinn indicated that the only difference comes into play with registration, “We continue to keep up with registration paperwork on the animals with 100 percent bloodlines. We’ll use %-I bulls on the purchased heifers with unknown pedigrees.”

Quality People

Bob Shinn Farms isn’t a one man show. Operations at the dairy take place with the help of Shinn’s brother, Jeff, and 11 employees. Jeff raises feed on 1,500 acres and takes care of nutrient management and manure disposal. In addition to feed, Jeff also takes care of breeding the cows. “We’ve got good people,” Shinn was quick to say. He credited two strengths consistent among his employees, ‘natural ability and desire to learn.’ When asked to share a piece of advice, Shinn didn't think twice before saying, “You’ve got to be open to suggestions. I’ll take ideas wherever I can get them.” His farm works with Genex consultant Phillip Lunn and utilizes the Genex RPM™ (Reproductive Profit Manager) twice a year to gauge their progress. Shinn has seen firsthand the importance of utilizing the top genetics available. His commitment to good cows and his belief in good people have helped to make his dairy a success.

HORIZONS

Presort Standard US Postage Paid Columbus, WI Permit #73

Genex Cooperative, Inc.

A subsidiary of Cooperative Resources International 117 E. Green Bay Street, P.O. Box 469 Shawano, WI 54166 • Phone 888/333-1783

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

B0341-080

Product of the U.S.A.

In an industry of uncertainty…

the Genex fertility advantage is certain. Average Annual Sire Fertility* Rating by A.I. Stud Stud

2000

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

Genex 1.2

1.0

1.3

1.0

0.9

1.5

2.0

Stud A

0.1

0.0

0.3

0.5

0.1

0.2

0.0

0.1

1.0

1.2

Stud B

-1.2

-0.5

0.3

0.1

-0.2

-0.1

0.3

1.2

2.2

1.8

Stud C

-0.7

0.3

0.8

0.0

-0.5

-0.4

-0.8

-0.5

-0.4

0.0

Stud D

0.1

0.3

0.5

0.3

0.4

0.3

0.7

1.1

0.6

Stud E

-0.8

0.5

-1.4

-0.4

0.2

0.8

0.7

0.9

1.3

1.5

0.9

*2000 through 2008 data represents USDA ERCR evaluations. 2009 to present represents USDA SCR evaluations. Source: USDA-AIPL and Raleigh, N.C.

For over a decade, Genex has offered sires with industry-leading fertility.