A Steak in Genomics™

Today, an article I wrote appeared in BEEF Magazine's Cow-Calf Weekly.
Do we HAVE to cull genetic defect cattle? Science says no In this article, I used genetic defects as a case study for what happens when we don't embrace the new opportunities science provides. Science now allows us to manage genetic defects differently than we did 50 years ago.

But, I fear with all of the baggage genetic defects bring, that my main point will be lost. My main point is simple.
Embrace science.
Embrace technology.
Embrace new approaches.

I love that Burke Teichert encourages us to be a constant learner searching for better practices. I have also tried to encourage people to embrace science.

In conclusion, I am not a genetic defects zealot. Manage them how you see fit. But, I am a science zealot! Please look for ways science and technology can benefit your operation. For different production systems and breeding objectives, how science is used will look differently. Science can improve all bee…

Anyone familiar with the Missouri beef industry, knows the Show-Me-Select™ Heifer Program. In 2015, we started a new heifer classification in the Show-Me-Select™ Heifer Program, called Show-Me-Plus™. A Show-Me-Plus heifer simply has a genomic prediction, either reported as genomic-enhanced EPDs for registered heifers or genomic tests for commercial heifers. At the most recent board meeting, the board approved 5 additional products; now heifers qualify for Show-Me-Plus™ with breed association GE-EPDs, GeneMax Focus, GeneMax Advantage, Gelbvieh Maternal Edge, Red Angus Herd Navigator, Igenity Gold, Igenity Silver, Igenity Gold Angus, Igenity Silver Angus, Method Choice, and Method Commercial tests.

In the Southeast, West Central, and North Central sales, there were 33 lots of 86 heifers that carried the Show-Me-Plus™ label.
Below are the summary statistics for the 2015 Fall Sales, breaking heifers out by Tier II (sire identified heifer out of a proven AI sire), pregnancy, and Show-Me-P…