Red meat rebound
The red meat sector is poised for a strong rebound this season, with export receipts forecast to top $10 billion and farm profitability to almost double.
B+LNZ Genetics general manager Graham Alder says about 80 breeders are attending the forum, on Tuesday and Wednesday. "The two days are intended to provide genuine two-way communication between the B+LNZ Genetics and breeders. We value the opportunity to talk with breeders directly about where we see the organisation heading, and want their input to help guide future direction."
The forum will showcase the B+LNZ Genetics programme, including DNA SNP chip genomic selection technologies, feed efficient sheep and selecting for disease resistance. It will also discuss the genetics for profitable sheep farming, given it now mainly resides in the higher country, due to the growth of dairy farming.
The first day starts with an outline of what B+LNZ Genetics aims to address in its first five years, as well what has been happening over the past year. There will be a poster session during the afternoon, with about 20 researchers and their projects represented, as well as a question-and-answer panel discussion.
Wednesday involves a presentation from Dr Sue Denise of Zoetis on the "Global genetics view". A rural accountant will share his experience recognising the direct monetary value that can be added by selecting rams based on hard data. The afternoon will be spent at Invermay, with breeders able to choose from a selection of tours.
