Genetic Tactics: implementing a genetic strategy with BoviSync

Genetic Tactics: implementing a genetic strategy with BoviSync

Decrease Inbreeding and Achieve Genetic Goals  

A successful genetic strategy is key to improving herd performance. Advanced herd management software like BoviSync simplifies implementation of a genetic strategy. Dairies leverage BoviSync to decrease inbreeding, achieve genetic goals, and streamline execution. 

Optimize genetic gain 

Producers maximize genetic investment in the best bulls by selecting their highest genetic animals. Further optimization comes from careful matings. For example, inbreeding can have detrimental effects on dairy herds, leading to a decrease in genetic diversity and the potential for increased health issues.  

Genetic advisors utilize mating software to identify sires for herds and individual cows that will increase genetic gain. Advisors import matings directly into BoviSync with a simple file import. Importing Mating Files  

Scenario 1: Identify optimal sires for mating 

Sires are listed that provide the most ideal for a mating in the sire mating items. Breeders will utilize sires that are listed in the sire items. Availability of the sire in semen inventory is minimized by including acceptable alternatives in other sire items. Allowing breeders to consider these alternatives allows for more efficient breeding with less mistakes.   

Sire matings can also be updated manually or by protocol. A common protocol added is to change sir1 to beef sire when the cow meets the criteria for beef semen on the dairy.  

Scenario 2: Exclude sires for mating 

The software can suggest optimal pairings based on genetic diversity indices. Sometimes, it is easier for breeders to avoid listed sires. In this scenario, breeders pull semen that isn’t listed on matings of animals.  

Streamlining Execution 

Efficiency in executing mating tactics is crucial for the success of any dairy farm. BoviSync guides breeders with sire matings and breeding plans. The BoviSync Mobile App streamlines this process through its user-friendly interface and comprehensive data management capabilities.  

Optimized guidance:

BoviSync standardizes communication of breeding procedures with the Breeding Plan Event with the types: Beef, Conventional, DNB, Donor, Hold, and Recipient. While breeding plans may be set manually, most dairies create protocols to create automatic workflows to reduce decision making at the time of breeding. Breeders then view the breeding plan on the mobile app along with Sire matings. Breeding Plans  

Mobile management:

The BoviSync app allows breeders to focus on specific animals and data points while capturing information at the same time. Breeding plan and sire matings are viewed at the time an animal is found in heat or on a chore list for breeding. Mobile apps reduce decision-making, data entry time and related mistakes.  

Monitor Genetic Compliance and Progress 

A successful genetic strategy needs monitoring to assure that progress is maximized. BoviSync reporting allows producers and advisors to monitor compliance with breeding plans and sire usage.  

EvSireNaab vs Sire Mating - monitor technicians’ compliance on choosing bulls. Note: Only applicable until changes to sire matings are made.  

Services by Semen Type Count – summarize count of semen types used by lactation group, service type, and event number.  

A screenshot of a computer Description automatically generated 

 

Achieving specific genetic goals, such as improving milk yield, enhancing disease resistance, or optimizing physical traits, is a key objective for many dairy farmers. Genetic progress can be monitored in BoviSync reports with comprehensive genomic and pedigree index and trait report items.  

Net Merit Breedings - evaluate the average net merit of sires of breedings by month, excludes sires without net merit values. 

Sire NM$ by Birth Date – evaluate multiple traits of sires by birth year 

Genetic Progress (Sires) – Comprehensive list of sire traits tip: slide the columns to change graph series 

Conclusion 

BoviSync Herd Management Software is an invaluable tool for modern dairies aiming to optimize their mating tactics. Investment in semen is only maximized by using it on the right cows. By decreasing inbreeding, achieving genetic goals, and streamlining execution, BoviSync helps farmers maintain healthy, productive herds and achieve their long-term objectives. Through these scenarios demonstrating its capabilities, it is evident that BoviSync is integral to the future of efficient and effective dairy farming. 


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