Friday General Session
Breed and Breeder Adaptation to Genome-Enhanced/Enabled Selection Information
Abstract:
In order for genomics information to most effectively impact seedstock selection decisions, it should be incorporated into breed association performance programs. This requires new business infrastructure and information technologies that function to integrate the activities of breeders, breed associations, genomics companies and genetic evaluation service provider.
Best-use of validated genomics information promises to enhance the accuracy of expected progeny differences (EPDs; especially important for non-parents) and enable more thorough characterization of genetic differences for additional economically relevant traits. In turn, this equates to more informative bioeconomic selection indexes and customized decision support.
Failure to effectively construct such infrastructure is expected to result in ambiguous, confusing selection information that may impede genetic improvement and threaten most-profitable adoption of genomics technology by seedstock and commercial producers.
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About the speaker:
Kent Andersen was raised on a diversified livestock and farming operation in central Nebraska. Following graduation from the University of Nebraska (B.S., 1985) and Colorado State University (M.S., 1987; Ph.D., 1990), Andersen served as director of education and research (1990-1999) and executive vice president (2000 to present) for the North American Limousin Foundation (NALF).
During his tenure at NALF, he has been active in various beef industry organizations, including the Beef Improvement Federation, National Pedigreed Livestock Council, Ultrasound Guidelines Council, U.S. Beef Breeds Council and the International Limousin Council.
Andersen remains active in his family’s commercial cow-calf and hybrid seedstock operation in Nebraska. He and his wife, Wendy, along with 5-year-old daughter Claire, reside in Centennial, Colo.
Editor’s Note: The above material is provided by and posted with permission of the Beef Improvement Federation. Please direct reprint requests to BIF via the “Contact BIF” page at www.beefimprovement.org.
