Genetic Selection of milk production , weaning weight and mature size can vary significantly from one operation to another depending upon resources available and management . When optimum is identified , sires can be selected to produce daughters whose maintenance energy , longevity , level of milk production and mature weight will move the cow herd toward identified goals given available resources .
Identifying and selecting optimum genetics for milk production and mature weight is a genetics selection approach that may require a change in focus for many cowcalf producers . It may mean selecting sires at a bull sale that are at or below breed average to move the cow herd genetically toward a desired level for certain traits . Selecting a bull that is “ below breed average ” is a paradigm shift for many cow-calf producers . Identifying a window of optimum given a set of resources and then selecting cattle that hit the optimum target is the goal under this method of cattle breeding . Success in selecting for optimum means that for many producers they will be selecting sires whose EPDs for milk production and mature weight will decrease the average in their herd . Simultaneously , they should be using EPDs to select for traits that will maintain or improve fertility and longevity . Genetic selection and breeding programs should focus on increased profit , and in many cases this may mean selection for decreased mature weight and milk production to move future replacements for the cowherd towards optimum . I
LIMOUSIN Today | 33