Agricultural News
Angus Producer Finds Long Term Value Through Genetic Profiling
Tue, 26 Jul 2016 10:07:42 CDT
There is always room for improvement in anything you do. The tricky part is knowing where to make those improvements. Thanks to modern science in the field, the Angus breed has taken the guess work out of producers' decisions that directly affect their herds by finding weaknesses through genetic testing.
Montana cattleman, Hugh Bradley, has used D-N-A, a genomic profiler available to Angus breeders, for the last four years. The results of those tests have guided Bradley to make herd selection decisions that emphasize marbling in his cattle, an area in which he discovered his herd was lacking.
"Definitely helping me refocus how I look at my bulls," Bradley said. "Instead of more maternal traits as I have spent in the past, I'm looking more on the feeder side of it."
For Bradley, testing means a stronger, more reliable bottom line. He understands that by selling cattle that are genetically prone to better yield performance, he is securing his profits in the long run.
"It's not direct, but the thing is, if you get them making money, they're going to want your cattle," Bradley said. "So the feedlots-they can risk manage better, if there is less risk for them, they're going to be willing to pay more for my cattle if they're going to make money on them, hopefully they're going to let me make money on them. So to speak. The trickle-down effect on them."
Watch the full interview with Mr. Hugh Bradley by clicking the PLAY BOX below.
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