New beef genomics project aims to improve breeding decisions

A new research project led by the Canadian Angus Association aims to combine genomic, environmental and management data to help producers identify cattle that are better suited to their specific operations.

Led by Dr. Kajal Latimer of the Canadian Angus Association, the project is designed to account for the environmental and management differences that can influence cattle performance and breeding decisions. Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) is providing $563,380 in funding through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) is providing $563,380 in funding through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

Climate, forage and management practices can all affect how cattle perform, according to the research team.

The project will combine genomic information with environmental and management data to develop environment-specific genomically enhanced expected progeny differences, or eGEPDs. These predictions would build on existing genetic evaluations by giving producers a better indication of how cattle may perform under conditions similar to their own. 

For example, a breeding animal that performs well under one forage system may not be the best match for an operation with different feed resources or management practices.

The research is intended to make those differences easier to consider alongside the genetic information producers already use.

The team also plans to develop a dashboard that presents information tailored to a producer’s location and management practices.

The goal is to make the research practical to use when comparing breeding options, rather than leaving producers to interpret complex data on their own.

If successful, the work could give Canadian Angus producers another way to select cattle suited to their operations and make breeding decisions with greater confidence.