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 In
1997 we began to using DNA to enhance the tracking of our genetics.
In multi-sire pastures, DNA
testing allows the discovery of an individual animal's paternity. Sampling
the outliers in approximately the top and bottom 5% of harvest has allowed
discovery of collectable (for use in Artificial Insemination) and cull
bulls.
DNA has been used to identify sires of outliers (spot uses) for: calving
ease, health problems, and replacement heifers.
The industry has begun using DNA for numerous other traits (marbling,
tenderness, growth horn/polled, etc). At this point in time while the JHL
finds the data very intriguing and exciting we are not utilizing this
technology. We are not
selecting against it but we are selecting for it. The reason is that
currently this data does not provide complete answers. This means the sites found do not
account for the full 100% of these traits. Additionally little research has
been done (nor is there much incentive) on any negative attributes that
might be associated with these newly discovered DNA sites.
DNA is a technology with a bright future.
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