Genetics
Better Beef Breeding resources aid bull selection
The incorporation of nProve Beef into Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Better Beef Breeding resources has made selecting bulls a whole lot easier. Words Sandra Taylor.
Genetic testing ground
Some of the most arid soils in Canterbury are proving to be the ideal testing ground for Richard and Denise van Asch’s beef genetics. Words Sandra Taylor.
Farmers’ lessons from involvement in Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Beef Progeny Test
Ten years on from his involvement in Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Beef Progeny Test, Matt Smith is applying many of the same principles to the beef herds he oversees today. Words Sandra Taylor.
Testing genetics in commercial hill country conditions
Understanding what a valuable resource the Central Progeny Test is to the industry, Paul Crick and Dayanne Almeida have been instrumental in the establishment in the first hill country Central Progeny Test flock. Words Sandra Taylor, Photos Arahua
Low-methane sheep trial gains momentum
A survey of stud breeders carried out in 2023 showed 40 percent were willing to consider or already use methane amongst their genetic selections. This has been reflected in the number of stud breeders who have taken advantage of the measurements offered through Cool Sheep. Words Sandra Taylor.
Episode 27 – Utilising genetic tools on our farms
It’s bull and sheep buying season, and advancements in the genetics space are continuing to develop, to provide sheep and beef breeders with better New Zealand specific data. But how do farmers make the most of this information?
We talk to genetics specialists, Dr Shannon Clarke from AgResearch, Genetics Specialist and Gemma Jenkins from Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Informing New Zealand Beef programme, about projects running at the moment, what data they already have available, and how farmers can start using it in their systems.
Cow condition score is regarded as a big influencer of conception rate
Body Condition Score (BCS) data over several years shows a straight-line relationship to mating success. Words by Tony Leggett.
Monitoring system trial highlights potential of wearable technologies
Over the past six months, cow monitoring systems have been trialled in two South Island beef herds as part of Beef + Lamb New Zealand’s Informing New Zealand Beef Programme. Words Sandra Taylor, Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Milestones reached in Informing New Zealand Beef programme
Data from commercial herds contribute to beef evaluation programme. Words Sandra Taylor, Beef + Lamb New Zealand
Highlights of 2023 USA & Canada Study Tour
A group of New Zealand breeders and industry representatives learn more about genetic research and new technologies in the Northern Hemisphere. Words Sandra Taylor, Beef + Lamb New Zealand