Next generation of DNA testing
Herd improvement co-operative LIC is combining its DNA parentage testing and genomic evaluation services into one convenient service to help farmers identify their highest genetic merit animals.
The genetic gain and value that LIC bulls are delivering on New Zealand dairy farms is confirmed in the latest Ranking of Active Sires (RAS) list.
27 of the best 30 bulls on the All Breeds list are LIC’s, including the top 14 in a row of all breeds.
“These bulls are managed by LIC on our farmers’ behalf, with massive contributions from our top breeders and our Bull Acquisition team,” LIC general manager biological systems Geoff Corbett says.
“We want to thank everyone involved in the ongoing success of LIC genetics which is a truly collaborative effort. We are committed to continuing to provide farmers with exceptional permanent and cumulative genetic gain.”
Highlights from the RAS list released this week (October 9, 2016) include the following:
· Holstein Friesian: 44 of the top 50 Holstein Friesian bulls in New Zealand are LIC’s, including the top 11 in a row and 18 of the top 20.
· Jersey: LIC has eight of the top 10 Jersey Bulls and 13 of the top 15. LIC says this is an exceptional achievement by its bull acquisition manager jersey Malcolm Ellis, his team and breeders. Of the top 30 Jerseys on the RAS list, 20 are LIC’s.
· Crossbred: 23 of the top 25 Crossbred bulls on the RAS list are LIC’s – an outstanding result. This includes the top five in a row.
“We know farmers are looking for positives in these tough economic times. We believe the contribution that LIC genetics make to improving the longer-term prosperity and productivity of farming businesses is immense,” Corbett says.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Trade Minister Todd McClay says New Zealand has no intention of backing down in a trade dispute with Canada over dairy products.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.