What We’re Reading | Groundbreaking research could help ranchers optimize free-range grazing

U of A team will pinpoint genetic traits that could increase grazing efficiency while protecting pastures.

By Bev Betkowski

A new University of Alberta research project could help ranchers customize their cattle to the type of pastures they have, creating economic and environmental benefits along the way.

Launched this past summer, the research involves tracking the movements and feeding habits of grazing cattle, looking to identify genetic traits that could lead to breeding more efficient livestock.

The project opens up a sweeping, multi-dimensional approach to precision ranching, said lead investigator Edward Bork, a professor of rangeland ecology and management in the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences (ALES).

“This is pioneering work. No one has ever at this scale linked together the productivity and associated economics, genetics and environmental outcomes of free-range grazing.”

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‘What We’re Reading’ is a quick look at some of the issues and insights Alberta Beef Producers’ content creators and editors are reading to stay up-to-date, to broaden perspectives, and to explore issues relevant to the agriculture industry.