Future Genetic Challenges 2010
Reiland's got them covered!
The past decade of relentless drought in the south has highlighted several key observations.
1. Green grass has a soothing effect on both the cattleman and the cattle. The past 4-6 months of pasture response makes it a joy to inspect livestock even though summer weeds add a small degree of frustration.
2. A breeding cow can be run very economically once she is weaned.
3. Excessively framed and "sissy" cows do not handle feed shortage / tough times well. A larger percentage of big cows (& heifers) seem to contribute to income via cull beef sales more so than weaned calf sales.
4. Breed character i.e. strong head / muzzle & muscularity don't have an assigned EBV, but it is an important fundamental for constitution and longevity. It is an important selection criteria and a simple acceptance that superior livestock will look and perform well in their chosen environment.
5. Fertility is the #1 on-farm profit trait and will remain in this bold position despite many industry pundits forecasting that carcase traits would be of equal importance. Easy calving, fertile females are simply the best assets one can own.
6. Fat EBVs are an accurate forecast of bulls' future offspring phenotype and constitution. Avoidance of extremes within this EBV is paramount. It would appear that highly negative fat EBV animals can perform in 'soft' environments. Given the accelerated price of fertilizer, much of the breeding country on the eastern seaboard properties will be less-frequently fertilized, hence tougher conditions will be imposed on an individual farm level.
Reiland Angus has embraced this knowledge in genetic selection so clients will remain profitable in the future. All new sires and AI sires used will need to fulfil this vital specification. See later notes.
7. Selection for soundness should never be compromised!! Reiland Angus guarantee 3 year leg & feet soundness. We elect to undertake this ourselves as part of our stringent stockmanship / animal selection criteria rather than employ individuals to assess the herd. At the end of the day, we need to attend to any matters that may arise after sale day.
Raw data for structural & carcase assessment is available upon your individual enquiry.
The Reiland Angus registered & commercial herds are renowned for structural soundness throughout the 800-strong breeders run across three different locations in the Tumut / Gundagai region.
For more information please email Reiland : Mark Lucas