A.I. & BREEDING

Embryo transfer has evolved since its inception in North America in the early 1970s. Today, it is a worldwide, established industry focusing on genetic improvement, with more than 500,000 dairy and beef embryos being transferred annually.

Over the past decade, the dairy industry has undergone an unprecedented shift in the manner in which the underlying genetics are managed for improved productivity and health of dairy cattle. Few individuals (experts or otherwise) saw this sea change coming.

Inbreeding continues to receive increasing attention on progressive dairy operations – and appropriately so.

With an annual pregnancy rate of 21 percent, the herd at D&D Dairy near Rushford, Minnesota, significantly exceeded the industry average for reproductive performance. But co-owner Dean Smith knew the dairy could do better.

Everyone wants enough replacement heifers to maintain or even grow their herd size. Producers have achieved this goal with relative ease throughout the past 20 years.

Genetic progress achieved over the years in the Canadian dairy cattle population has been quite impressive. As time passes and the industry progresses, it’s useful to re-evaluate our national index and selection goals to assure we’re still on the right path.