Horizons Dezember 2013 von CRI International

D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 3

DECEMBER PROOF REPORT | GENESIS 25-YEAR CELEBRATION | NAVIGATING DAIRY PERFORMANCE FIGURES

GenexCooperative, Inc.A Subsidiary of Cooperative Resources International

THE

FUTURE O F Y O U R H E R D AND OURS

T HE F U T U R E O F Y O U R H E R D A N D O

U R S

25Y E A R S

Our Health Care Plan Works

Genex Provides Health Coverage for Your Herd

D A U G H T E R P R E G N A N C Y R AT E • P R O D U C T I V E L I F E

WITH 82 ELITE PRODUCTIVE LIFE AND DAUGHTER PREGNANCY RATE SIRES.

Number of Holstein Bulls ≥ +5.0 Productive Life and ≥ +1.0 Daughter Pregnancy RateNumber of Holstein Bulls ≥ +5.0 Productive Life and ≥ +1.0 Daughter Pregnancy Rate

1HO10890 ADRIAN+8.2 Productive Life

+3.0 DPR

1HO10883 CALICO+7.6 Productive Life

+2.8 DPR

1HO11032 MY WAY+7.2 Productive Life

+3.3 DPR

1HO11115 JAMBUL+7.9 Productive Life

+3.2 DPR

1HO10245 ABRAHAM+7.7 Productive Life

+3.0 DPR

Genex

Semex

ABS

Alta

Select

Accelerated

82

3752

24

2621

Genex

Semex

ABS

Alta

Select

Accelerated

82

3752

24

2621

USDA-CDCB/12-13, HA-USA/12-13, IB-M/USA/12-13, HA-M/USA/12-13. Based on December 2013 active Holstein lineups.

Mission Statement: Provide products and services as effectively as possible to maximize the profitability of members and customers worldwide while maintaining a strong cooperative.

Facebook.com/GenexCRI

GenexCooperativeInc

HORIZONS December 2013 Vol. 19/No. 3Published three times a year for

dairy producers around the globe. |

ADDRESS CORRESPONDENCECooperative Resources International

P.O. Box 469, Shawano, WI [email protected] 888.333.1783 www.crinet.com

CANADA - Genex Cooperative, Inc.291 Woodlawn Rd W Unit 4C, Guelph, Ontario N1H 7L6

[email protected] 888.354.4622

BOARD OF DIRECTORSPaul Greene, President

Berlin, N.Y., 518.658.2419

Duane Nelson, 1st Vice PresidentWinthrop, Minn., 507.647.2540

John Ruedinger, 2nd Vice PresidentVan Dyne, Wis., 920.922.9899

Ronald Totten, SecretaryStafford, N.Y., 585.344.0758

Jim CrockerValley City, Ohio, 330.483.3709

Jon Wayne Danielson Cadott, Wis., 715.289.3860

Patrick DuganCasa Grande, Ariz., 520.251.6455

Ted FosterMiddlebury, Vt., 802.388.6515

Harlin Hecht Paynesville, Minn., 320.243.4386

Harold HouseNokesville, Va., 703.754.9534

Kay Olson-MartzFriendship, Wis., 608.564.7359

Bobby RobertsonTahlequah, Okla., 918.822.0020

Richard VoldGlenwood, Minn., 320.634.4665

Alfred Wanner, Jr.Narvon, Pa., 717.768.8118

HORIZONS STAFFJenny L. Hanson, Editor, [email protected]

Andy Graf, Graphic Designer

REPRINTSMaterial may not be reproduced in any fashion without

Cooperative Resources International’s permission.

Cooperative Resources International, their member cooperatives, agents or employees, cannot and do not

guarantee the conception rate, quality or productivity to be obtained in connection with the use of their products or

recommended techniques. THEY MAKE NO WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED WHICH EXTENDS BEYOND THE DESCRIPTION OF THE

PRODUCTS AND HEREBY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. In the unlikely event that any of the products shall

be proven to be defective, damages resulting from their use shall be limited to their purchase price.

Membership Matters4 | Membership Meeting Dates & Locations

5 | Genex Listens to Delegate Input

In The News6 | CRI Hosts130 Dairy Producers

From Around the Globe

8 | 100,000 What?

10 | Employees Earn Mission Awards

13 | Wanner Provides Cooperative Insight Wanner Provides Cooperative Insight W in South Africa; Pay Ahead for 2014

14 | No Matter Herd Size, Focus or Goals …

15 | Announcing a Change in Liquid Nitrogen Delivery

23 | Introducing a Sire Fertility Ranking for GenChoicefor GenChoicef ™ Bulls

Genetically Speaking19 | A Silver Anniversary Celebration

Herd Story20 | GENESIS: River-Bridge Holsteins

30 | Competitive Dairy Cattle in Brazil

Herd Management24 | Monitor, Motivate and Manage with Dairy Performance NavigatorSM

28 | Rapid Growth Adding Value to Dairy with Beef

CONTENTS

k On the Cover:With the new year comes a new celebration – 2014 marks the silver anniversary of the GENESIS Cooperative Herd. Read pages 18-21 for more information.

PROOF HIGHLIGHTSPROOF HIGHLIGHTSPROOF HIGHLIGHTS16Get The Inside Scoop!

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SAVE THE DATE!

Genex has scheduled membership appreciation meetings throughout the U.S. for 2014. Check the map and the meeting listing (alphabetical by state) for the meeting nearest you. Additional information, including specific meeting location and time, will follow.

j 2014 Genex Membership Meeting Locations

DATE CITY STATE1 MAR 20 CHANDLER AZ2 AUG 5 MODESTO CA3 AUG 6 VISALIA CA4 JAN 11 WILLOWS CA5 OCT 10 LOVELAND CO6 FEB 27 STRATTON CO7 DEC 4 TRENTON FL8 NOV 14 MONTEZUMA GA9 FEB 18 CENTERVILLE IA10 MAR 11 DYERSVILLE IA11 JAN 9 PARMA ID12 NOV 7 TWIN FALLS ID13 MAR 13 ROSEVILLE IL14 FEB 13 MIDDLEBURY IN15 FEB 12 CLAY CENTER KS16 APR 10 GREAT BEND KS17 FEB 3 OAKLEY KS18 FEB 19 SKOWHEGAN ME19 FEB 20 FRANKENMUTH MI20 FEB 25 ALBERT LEA MN21 FEB 6 BAGLEY MN22 MAR 11 FREEPORT MN23 MAR 5 PARKERS PRAIRIE MN

DATE CITY STATE24 FEB 26 ROCHESTER MN25 MAR 5 SLAYTON MN26 JULY 10 ST CHARLES MN27 JUNE 5 ZUMBROTA MN28 NOV 8 STRAFFORD MO29 DEC 5 BOZEMAN MT30 JAN 21 CIRCLE MT31 JAN 20 LEWISTOWN MT32 JAN 23 SIDNEY MT33 FEB 5 ALMA NE34 JAN 30 ATKINSON NE35 FEB 4 GOTHENBURG NE36 SEP 30 CLOVIS NM37 MAR 11 ALBANY NY38 JUNE 23 AUBURN NY39 JUNE 27 BATAVIA NY40 MAR 12 LOWVILLE NY41 FEB 25 SMITHVILLE OH42 JAN 8 PENDLETON OR43 MAR 13 TILLAMOOK OR44 JAN 22 EAST EARL PA45 MAR 4 HUNTINGDON PA46 MAR 27 MEADVILLE PA

DATE CITY STATE47 MAR 4 PUNXSUTAWNEY PA48 JAN 23 SHIPPENSBURG PA49 FEB 12 DELL RAPIDS SD50 FEB 21 HIGHMORE SD51 FEB 19 KADOKA SD52 FEB 20 MITCHELL SD53 FEB 22 WATERTOWN SD54 OCT 21 COLUMBIA TN55 SEPT 9 STEPHENVILLE TX56 NOV 14 HARRISONBURG VA57 FEB 17 BETHEL VT58 FEB 18 ENOSBURG FALLS VT59 JAN 7 MOSES LAKE WA60 MAR 11 SUNNYSIDE WA61 FEB 13 EAU CLAIRE WI62 FEB 11 BALDWIN WI63 FEB 3 FOND DU LAC WI64 FEB 5 GREEN BAY WI65 FEB 4 KELLY LAKE WI66 FEB 12 MARATHON CITY WI67 FEB 12 PLATTEVILLE WI68 FEB 10 SHIOCTON WI69 FEB 10 WAUNAKEE WI

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M E M B E R S H I P M A T T E R S

GENEX LISTENS TO DELEGATE INPUT

Genex member-elected delegates gathered at nine meetings throughout the U.S. to collaborate, gain insight

and provide input on the future of the cooperative.

“These fall meetings have become the backbone of our decision-making process at the board level. Delegates represent a great cross section of member diversity. Delegates cross over all generational groups, geography, seedstock versus commercial and herd sizes,” commented Doug Wilson, Genex COO.

The fall input meetings, led by Genex board members and senior management staff, inform delegates and alternates about updates within the cooperative, generate discussion on real issues and gather input that guides the board and staff in making decisions that impact the cooperative. Key discussions at this year’s meetings involved communication, cooperative law and genetic planning.

Genex truly values the input and opinion of its delegates as this communication within the cooperative’s governance chain is essential to the future. History shows many ideas and concepts were first discussed at the Genex fall meetings before being implemented by the cooperative.

“As Genex continues to grow,” notes Wilson, “the value of structured grassroots input continues to be an asset. The delegate system always was and always will be valuable in this cooperative.”

GENEX MEMBER DEFINITION TO CHANGE

After reviewing delegate and alternate input received at fall delegate meetings in 2011, the Genex board and

CRI governance committee supported changing the Genex member definition for 2015. Their recommendation increases the amount of annual allocatable expenditures required to be a Genex member from $200 to $500. The CRI board voted to change the Genex member definition as recommended. It goes into effect in 2015.

2014 CRI ANNUAL MEETING SLATED FOR JAN. 28-29

Members elected as delegates have

the opportunity to attend the fifth annual national meeting for Genex and CRI in Bloomington, Minn., on January 28-29, 2014. The event features break-out sessions on current issues, the annual meetings of CRI and Genex and a banquet. Delegate expenses are paid to and from the meeting.

DG29 is a product of Conception Animal Reproduction Technologies www.conception-animal.comwww.conception-animal.com.

IS SHE or ISN’T SHE?

Know pregnancy status as early as 29 days post breeding with DG29™ blood pregnancy testing!

Testing conducted at Dairy One, Ithaca, N.Y. AgSource Laboratories, Menonomie, Wis. AgSource Laboratories, Jerome, Idaho


Shawano, WI • Phone 888/333-1783www.crinet.com

A Product of:

H O R I Z O N S | 5© 2 0 1 3 C R I

M E M B E R S H I P M A T T E R S

CRI HOSTS 130 DAIRY PRODUCERS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE

In early October, 130 visitors from 20 countries attended the annual CRI Profit Tour. This educational event presented

participants with examples of profitable dairy genetics and commercial dairy operations.

Participants began the tour in Madison, Wis., at the World Dairy Expo where they had the opportunity to witness over 2,500 head of exceptional cattle being exhibited on the famous colored shavings, and speak with agricultural companies about innovative research, technology, products and services at the trade show.

The tour then continued to the CRI and Genex world headquarters, including viewing bulls such as 1HO07235 TOYSTORY, 1HO10824 TANGO, 1HO10837 FLYN,

1HO10490 GALAXY, 1HO10028 FLOYD and 1JE00794 ZAYD. The new, 28,000 sq. ft., CRI Distribution Center and Stony Hill production facility completed the Shawano, Wis., tours.

The highlight of the event was visiting U.S. dairy herds, where participants gained insight into farming practices while visiting with Wisconsin dairy producers. The group toured Dallmann’s East River Dairy of Brillion, Wis.; Hall’s Calf Ranch of Kewaunee, Wis.; Pagel’s Ponderosa also of Kewaunee, Wis.; Ruedinger Farms, Inc. of Van Dyne, Wis.; and United Pride Dairy, LLC of Phillips, Wis.

G The group from Pakistan with AVP of International Marketing, Bob Stratton at United Pride Dairy.

J Martin Hahn of Genex shows GENESIS young stock housing to Profit Tour participants.

SMILE TO WIN AT WORLD DAIRY EXPO

During the 2013 World Dairy Expo, the CRI and Genex booth was home to a popular

social media contest. To enter, participants had to take a photo with a representative from CRI in the booth and then put it on Facebook or Twitter. Entries were compiled and winners were selected at random. Contest winners were:

• Tim Zweber of Elko, Minn. – MVE semen tank

• Jennifer Orchard of Colombus, Wis. – $500 Genex certificate

• Dan Hinz of Pickett, Wis. – $500 Genex certificate

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T A B L E O F C O N T E N T S I N T H E N E W S

A special thanks to all who entered. We thoroughly enjoyed all of your hard work!

Genex is pleased to offer John Deere Financial to provide you with finance options to meet the specific needs of your operation. Whether thinking about the next day or the next generation, John Deere Financial is a name you can rely on.

Let John Deere Financial Color Your World! Rely on us for all of your financing needs.

Congratulations to our 1 st Place Coloring Contest Winner!Charlie, age 8, from Bonduel, Wisconsin.

By: Brenda Brady // Public Relations Specialist, CRI

100,000 WHAT?

FIRST SER VICES

milestone

FIRST

S E R V I C E

100,000TH

When you meet Landis Beyor, Genex Breeding Program Specialist (BPS), you are immediately drawn to his huge smile and infectious laugh. I instantly felt at ease traveling with him through some of the most beautiful countryside I had ever seen. The winding dirt roads around St. Albans, Vt., led us to farms nestled neatly in the valleys of the Green Mountains. The first snowfall of the season had just blanketed the upper elevations, and I realized the amount of dedication Landis needs to possess, especially during the winter months, to ensure cows are bred, even on snowy mornings when plows haven’t yet been through. And, he has traveled those roads 30,000 to 35,000 miles a year for the past 22 years with no hint of slowing down.

Beginning his career with Eastern A.I., a Genex predecessor, Landis has witnessed many changes in the industry from genomics to larger farm sizes to working in a Genex service team. He has accepted these changes in stride.

Being a BPS is so much more than just breeding cows as I learned watching Landis expertly navigate several different computer systems on multiple farms and quietly scan through pens of hundreds of animals stopping briefly to double-check

ones that gave hints to their reproductive condition. However, it was the time he spent with producers that most caught my attention. In a time of automation and mechanization, people still want and need personal contact, and Landis is the perfect individual to help with their questions or concerns. Teammate Scott Sanderson notices this as well, “He is totally committed to the farmers, and they are thankful for it. Every time I go to one of his farms the farmers always want to talk about Landis and how great of a guy he is.”

In his free time Landis enjoys spending time with his family Wendi, Libby and Collin. He also appreciates the Vermont weather for two of his other hobbies, snowmobiling and watching hockey.

What is 100,000 first services? That is a question I needed to fully understand before I could tackle writing this article. I discovered the following information

online, “The National Association of Animal Breeders (NAAB) provides recognition to various persons in the A.I. industry who have reached significant milestones in their careers. One such award is given to insemination technicians with benchmarks of 35,000, 100,000, 150,000 and 200,000 first service cows inseminated.” I even did a little investigation to find that as of July 2013, only 235 individuals have reached the prestigious 100,000 first services level. But what I really wanted to know was, what does it take to achieve longevity and success in the A.I. business? What drives someone to allow them to get to the 100,000 first services level? Those were answers that could not be found on the Internet. So, I traveled to Vermont and New York to meet with two Genex representatives who recently reached this milestone to uncover their not-so-secret secrets.

G After 100,000 first services, preparing a breeding gun may have become routine, but it still requires the utmost attention.

J Landis is always observing, watching for signs of heat.

J Landis and Clement Gervais of Gervais Dairy Farm where Landis performed his 100,000th first service on August 19, 2013.

Story continued on next page…

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I immediately recognized that my day with Team Leader Mark Hodge would be interesting when the first words out of his mouth turned the interview onto me, “So tell me about you,” he said.

As my morning progressed, I discovered those first words were indicative of Mark’s personality. He is a fantastic listener and wants to know more about every situation, not just taking them at face value, but truly attempting to understand them. Team member Doug Haggerty says this of Mark, “He is very analytical and asks the tough questions of his clients and fellow teammates to get people thinking.” I witnessed this at several locations during my visit. If the producer had an issue, they shared it with Mark, even if it didn’t have anything to do with the A.I. industry. It was evident he is a problem solver and integral to the operation of the farms he services. Area Marketing Manager Jim Vitale says it best, “It’s because he cares.”

Mark, a Genex Team Leader 1, has been caring for dairy producers in the Watertown, N.Y., area for the past 26 years. He, too, has seen his share of changes in the industry. One of the biggest was the shift from working as an individual to being a part of a breeding team. According to Mark, this has been a great change, allowing him to provide increased service to his members and customers. Over the years he has followed the exceptional service model trading quantity for quality and it shows according to teammate Kaitlyn Mahar, “To keep it simple, he sets the standard for service to our members.”

That standard is now echoed by teammates as Mark is clearly a role model for all. “His perseverance is addictive and it continues to drive me to be better,” notes BPS Melanie Harper.

Mark achieved 100,000 first services on Tuesday, November 12, 2013.

Time away from his career is spent building homes. Mark’s current project is a retreat on Grindstone Island for his family, wife, Janelle, and children Camron, age 6 and Morgan, age 7. He also enjoys racing boats and riding his motorcycle.

J Striving to learn more, Mark discusses computer issues with Russ Brown of Brown Dairy.

So while I discovered there were many differences between these fantastic Genex employees, what I really uncovered is they are very much alike. They are both incredibly dedicated to their career, the members and customers they serve and the dairy industry as a whole. The only constant in their careers has been constant change, and they have embraced each new development as an opportunity. Mark and Landis’ producers receive honest, intelligent and relevant advice from two men that this author witnessed to be, not just their Genex representatives, but friends.

J Mark enters breeding data into the computer and uses several checks to be certain all data is correct.

G After palpating a uterine horn, Mark explains the probable cause of reproductive issues to David Zehr at Brown Dairy.

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EMPLOYEES REWARDED FOR EXCELLENCE IN SERVICE, RECOGNIZED WITH MISSION AWARDS

Joel’s past work experience involves numerous roles within Genex. After two summers as a marketing intern, he became a full-time employee providing cattle reproductive service. He went on to work as a sales representative before accepting a position within the Genex employee training department. Joel’s leadership ability was truly visible as he taught and mentored many classes of new employees. Today he dedicates his time to developing the 30 employees who serve members and customers

throughout northeast Wisconsin and the majority of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The Area Marketing Manager position enables Joel to apply skills learned from his master’s in business administration education program.

“Joel does an outstanding job creating a positive work environment for his employees,” explains Greg Hoffman, Regional Marketing Manager. “He works hard to provide the support his staff needs to be successful. He hires tough, trains well and then sets challenging yet realistic goals with expectations his staff will attain.”

joined Genex working as an Independent Contractor marketing dairy semen. In May 2012, he became a full-time employee operating a sales truck route that covers a large portion of the state of New Mexico – including the Albuquerque, Roswell and Las Cruces areas – as well as a portion of the Texas Panhandle. As a Territory Sales Manager, his sales area covers many miles, but includes several pockets of dairies with large numbers of cows.

According to Area Marketing Manager Devin Sumption, Marcos does an excellent job working with members and customers and relates to them on a personal level. “Marcos has a personal connection with a number of dairy producers. He understands the culture of the area and works very hard.”

J Joel DelzerArea Marketing ManagerShawano, Wisconsin

J Marcos CastilloTerritory Sales ManagerTerritory Sales ManagerTRoswell, New Mexico

RECOGNIZED WITH MISSION AWARDS

Joel’s past work experience In July 2007, Marcos joined Genex working as an Independent Contractor

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CASEY HONORED WITH KEVIN BOYLE LEADERSHIP AWARD

Bill has dedicated more than 30 years to Genex members and customers. His experience began while a summer intern with Minnesota Valley Breeders. He furthered his tenure accepting a relief artificial insemination service position, followed by time as an Area Sales Manager. Currently, and for most of his career, Bill has been the provider of Genex genetics and products to producers in western Wisconsin and a producers in western Wisconsin and a portion of eastern Minnesota. This Area portion of eastern Minnesota. This Area portion of eastern Minnesota. This Area portion of eastern Minnesota. This Area Sales Representative or Territory Sales Sales Representative or Territory Sales Sales Representative or Territory Sales Manager position is what he truly enjoys.Manager position is what he truly enjoys.Manager position is what he truly enjoys.Manager position is what he truly enjoys.

“I enjoy the genetics part of the business, “I enjoy the genetics part of the business, “I enjoy the genetics part of the business, “I enjoy the genetics part of the business, “I enjoy the genetics part of the business, to see the herd improvements made to see the herd improvements made to see the herd improvements made to see the herd improvements made to see the herd improvements made through the selection of good genetics. through the selection of good genetics. through the selection of good genetics. through the selection of good genetics. through the selection of good genetics. The second part of what makes this job The second part of what makes this job The second part of what makes this job The second part of what makes this job The second part of what makes this job The second part of what makes this job so great is the relationships formed with so great is the relationships formed with so great is the relationships formed with so great is the relationships formed with so great is the relationships formed with so great is the relationships formed with the members and customers I work the members and customers I work the members and customers I work the members and customers I work the members and customers I work the members and customers I work with,” explains Bill.with,” explains Bill.with,” explains Bill.with,” explains Bill.with,” explains Bill.

Having worked with Bill for most of Having worked with Bill for most of Having worked with Bill for most of Having worked with Bill for most of Having worked with Bill for most of Having worked with Bill for most of his 30 years, Regional Marketing his 30 years, Regional Marketing his 30 years, Regional Marketing his 30 years, Regional Marketing his 30 years, Regional Marketing

Manager Greg Hoffman describes the Manager Greg Hoffman describes the Manager Greg Hoffman describes the characteristics that earned Bill the 2013 characteristics that earned Bill the 2013 characteristics that earned Bill the 2013 Kevin Boyle Leadership Award. “Bill Kevin Boyle Leadership Award. “Bill Kevin Boyle Leadership Award. “Bill has an immediate positive impact on has an immediate positive impact on has an immediate positive impact on everyone he comes in contact with. He everyone he comes in contact with. He everyone he comes in contact with. He is perceived by Genex staff, members is perceived by Genex staff, members is perceived by Genex staff, members and customers as a genuine, sincere and customers as a genuine, sincere and customers as a genuine, sincere individual with a high level of integrity. He works hard to set a high level of performance for both Genex and the A.I. industry.”

Greg goes on to add, “Bill has always Greg goes on to add, “Bill has always stayed the course with a very positive stayed the course with a very positive attitude. He’s a team influencer and just attitude. He’s a team influencer and just a good person.”

Having known Kevin Boyle, whom the leadership award is named after, Bill is honored to be the award recipient. “Kevin and I never worked together directly, but we were area sales managers at the same time. From knowing Kevin and the kind of individual he was, I am honored to receive the award.”

JJ Bill CaseyBill CaseyBill CaseyBill CaseyBill CaseyBill CaseyBill CaseyTTerritory Sales Managererritory Sales Managererritory Sales Managererritory Sales ManagerTerritory Sales ManagerTTerritory Sales ManagerTRRiver Falls, Wisconsiniver Falls, Wisconsiniver Falls, Wisconsiniver Falls, Wisconsin

THE FAB 5

A strong dedication to the Genex members they serve as well as their team members, makes the Fab 5 service team deserving of a Mission Award. The team works around New York’s Letchworth State Park, providing reproduction service to dairies from Avon, N.Y., south to Nunda, west to Pike and north to Pavilion. Demonstrating their effectiveness and commitment, the team also services several herds outside their area simply because they have been requested.

The Fab 5 makes daily stops at 20 dairies. Nineteen of these daily stops (totaling 15,000 cows and heifers) involve providing full service heat detection and artificial insemination programs. In total, the team serviced cows within 80 herds last year. Together, they average a 25.3% pregnancy rate.

As noted by the team’s Area Marketing Manager, “Doug has been a true leader and has mentored the rest of the group to follow him in every way.” Symbolizing

that leadership attribute, Doug also recognizes several other Genex staff members who contributed to the team’s success. Tech Specialist Charles O’Donnell and Breeding Program Specialist Joe Elmore both joined the team within the past several months. In addition, Territory Sales Manager Jan Longacre and Dairy Regional Account Manager Dave Keller have both been integral support staff.

Doug ComstockYork, New York

Chris LowePavilion, New York

David RiceLe Roy, New York

Rolland SearsPerry, New York

Howard KleinRetsof, New York

About the Kevin Boyle Leadership AwardThe Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The Kevin Boyle Leadership Award is presented to one Genex employee annually. The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who The award was established in honor of Kevin Boyle, a former Genex employee who demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award demonstrated vision, devotion and pride for the cooperative. Recipients of the award exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm exceed expectations in the following five categories: commitment to improving farm reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior reproduction and genetics, willingness to help others, ability to provide superior support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude. support services, excellence in communication skills and positive attitude.

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PAY AHEAD FOR 2014

Genex is offering a prepayment program for 2014 business. This

enables you to pay ahead for some or all of your 2014 purchases during 2013. In return, you receive a credit on your account. Any prepayment amount for your service, semen and product purchases will be accepted; however please note all resulting credits must be used in 2014.

If you take advantage of the pay ahead program, a 5% credit will be added to your January 2014 activity statement (which you receive in February), based upon the amount of credit remaining on your Genex open account as of December 31, 2013. For those using John Deere Financial for Genex purchases, the amount paid in the pay ahead program will be credited to your Genex account until all money has been used.

To participate, contact your Genex representative for a pay ahead agreement. All agreements and monies must be dated no later than December 31, 2013 and be received at Genex headquarters by January 15, 2014.

WANNER PROVIDES COOPERATIVE INSIGHT IN SOUTH AFRICA

In August, Genex and CRI board member Alfred Wanner, Jr. of Narvon, Pa., traveled to South Africa to speak at a cooperative

foundations seminar. The seminar was a joint effort between CRI and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under a Cooperative Development Program (CDP) grant.

The two-day seminar held in Jeffreys Bay, Queenstown and Kokstad, attracted 98 attendees from 14 South African agriculture cooperatives. Participants learned about cooperative principles, the roles and responsibilities of members and the board of directors, and strategic planning.

As a speaker, Wanner shared the knowledge and experience he has gained while serving as a cooperative director for the past 17 years. “I see my role at these meetings as relating farmer-to-farmer,” explains Wanner. “When I share my experiences, they are surprised to see the similarities between U.S. and South African cooperatives. I share my experiences, and I relate how we have tried to solve comparable problems. It gives them encouragement to see how cooperative businesses in the U.S. started small and have grown. They have the same opportunity to grow and become successful.”

CRI strives to cooperate with cooperatives by heading a USAID-funded CDP in Nicaragua and South Africa. This CDP grant is committed to developing cooperatives into successful enterprises through mentoring and training.

PAY AHEAD FOR 2014 PURCHASES,EARN A 5% CREDIT!

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I N T H E N E W S

NO MATTER HERD SIZE, FOCUS OR GOALS …GENEX HAS EMPLOYEES DEDICATED TO MEETING YOUR NEEDS

Whether you consider your herd to be large or small, whether you want to focus on production or efficiency,

whether you want to be a top reproduction herd or one of the highest genetic merit herds, Genex staff are committed to helping you develop your herd into what you want it to be.

Genex has more than 550 sales, service and consulting staff nationwide helping members and customers maximize their bottom line. Together, these individuals provide customized genetic and reproductive programs, including corrective mating, heat detection, artificial insemination, synchronization protocol management, data analysis, on-farm training, complete herd consulting and much more.

Among those 550 Genex sales, service and consulting staff members are several teams of individuals dedicated to very specific roles. For instance, the U.S. Technical Services team is a very knowledgeable team of individuals who excel in herd management and reproductive consulting. They help producers and their farm management teams identify challenges and implement protocols for improvement. They are experienced in working alongside producers to develop genetic strategies. The Technical Services team also includes individuals who develop and operate innovative programs such as Dairy Performance Navigator™ and Calf Math™.

With changes in numbers of herds and herd sizes over the years, Genex has looked for ways to better serve the needs of

herds with different demographics. Previously, National Account Managers were identified who work with large dairies to help meet their specific needs. These individuals are adept at scaling recommendations to the dairy’s size, are knowledgeable in coordinating logistics across a dairy’s multiple facilities, and focus on overcoming challenges and maintaining consistency when decisions can affect large numbers of cows.

A newly introduced Dairy Regional Account Manager team operates in a similar manner. This 10-person team, working primarily with mid-sized dairies, focuses on being current on Genex and industry happenings and innovations. Their knowledge and availability to meet with producers makes them a powerful resource when considering a change in herd goalsor a new management direction. These individuals work hard to build and sustain relationships between the cooperative and the cooperative’s member owners.

Wherever you are located, whatever your goals are, whatever your herd size is, Genex has a whole network of experts available to assist. Genex representatives are devoted to providing reputable service, high fertility genetics, profitable genetics and much more. If you need assistance in any genetic, reproduction or herd management area, contact your local Genex representative. Your representative, or another member of the Genex network of experts, can assist you in developing your herd into what you want it to be.

k Genex Dairy Regional Account Managers (left to right): Xavier Avila, Kurt Jochimsen, Bob Brahmstadt, Anthony Ling, Adam Koppes, Rachael Raddatz, David Keller, Allison Wood, Bill Krivanek, Derek Kolpack and Josh Keplar.

G (Far left) Breeding Program Specialist Dean Griswold pulls a straw of semen before performing A.I.

G U.S. Technical Services staff look over the cows at Dufek Dairy.

G Genex Territory Sales Manager Jim Engle delivers semen to West Point Farms in Idaho.

By: Kurt Jochimsen // Dairy Sales Development Manager, Genex

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ANNOUNCING A CHANGE IN LIQUID NITROGEN DELIVERY

The delivery of liquid nitrogen (LN2) to Genex members and customers is

a vital part of our service commitment. In reviewing our business model to gain efficiencies and with input from the board of directors, field marketing staff and management, Genex has decided to dedicate specific staff to deliver LN2 to members and customers.

The LN2 delivery team will also meet your artificial insemination supply needs, including products such as breeding gloves and sheathes. This delivery service began in select areas in late November 2013. It is anticipated the service will be expanded to members and customers in the upper Midwest and Northeast by January 1, 2014.

Your local sales representative, called Your local sales representative, called Ya Territory Sales Manager, will continue to provide semen, genetic consultation, reproductive consultation and information on our complete line of products. The implementation of the LN2 delivery team enables Territory Sales Managers to be more available to meet your needs.

Additionally, your cooperative will benefit from new cost saving measures. The current fleet of trucks will be transitioned to more user-friendly vans that increase the comfort, health and safety of Genex staff and operate more fuel efficiently. With our commitment to customer service, the new vehicles have the space needed to have products readily available

such as, Life Event Supplements featuring NuLife® ReBOUND™, a product that increases the health and welfare of calves and cattle.

Scours are common on days 5, 10 and on days 5, 10 and 21 of a calf’s life.21 of a calf’s life.1 1

Use NuLifeUse NuLife®® Oral Oral Electrolytes and NuLife Electrolytes and NuLife ReBOUNDReBOUNDReBOUND™™ to correct to correct dehydration, acidosis dehydration, acidosis and electrolyte loss and help supply healthy bacteria in the gut.

SHOP NOW!pro�tshop.crinet.com

To order, contact your Genex rep.

1 “Feeding Cows to Prevent Scours in Calves.” UCD Vet Views. University of California–Davis. California Cattleman. 2002.

Life Event Supplements by CRI

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Phone 888/333-1783 • www.crinet.com

CRI Calf Coats are Amish-made in the USA, machine washable, waterproof and feature Velcro front closure and buckle leg straps for easy on and off.

CRI CALF COATS

on Special Through

December 31st!

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H O R I Z O N S | 1 5© 2 0 1 3 C R I

I N T H E N E W S

Get The Inside Scoop!Get The Inside Scoop!PROOF HIGHLIGHTSPROOF HIGHLIGHTSPROOF HIGHLIGHTSPROOF HIGHLIGHTSPROOF HIGHLIGHTSPROOF HIGHLIGHTS

Body Size -6%

FL Com

p. 4%

Udder Comp.

7%

Productive Life22%

Calving Ability $ 5%

Traits Included inLifetime Net Merit

©2009 CRI G0203-129

Prod

uctio

n Tr

aits

35% Protein 16%

Fat 19%

Health Traits 48%

Conformation 17%

SCS -10%

DPR 11%

j Traits Included in Lifetime Net Merit

GENESIS NEW GRADS WILL WOW YOU!Genex introduced 24 new sires to the lineup. Six are above the elite +$800 Lifetime

Net Merit (LNM) threshold. What’s even more impressive is all six are all tied to your own GENESIS Cooperative Herd!

1HO10890 ADRIAN, with a Denim x Super x Zade profit-packed pedigree, is the highest new graduate at +$835 LNM. He’s a health and fitness leader adding a remarkable eight more months of productivity (+8.2 Productive Life) and creating daughters that conceive easily (+3.0 Daughter Pregnancy Rate). He rounds out his evaluations with +2375 TPI™.

Our new daughter fertility leader at +3.5 Daughter Pregnancy Rate (DPR) is 1HO11018 QUAERO (Armitage x Ramos). QUAERO excels in the other health and fitness traits as well – +6.5 Productive Life, +2.59 Somatic Cell Score (SCS) – and is a great option for heifer pens at 4.8% Sire Calving Ease (SCE). This sire also sports a big +$821 LNM and increases Fat (+0.15%).

1HO11200 LOMBARDI (Yano x Man-O-Man) transmits quality milk production. He leads the lineup with a very low +2.36 SCS combined with +1300 Milk. His excellent health traits (+6.4 Productive Life, 5.4% SCE) contribute to his respectable +$813 LNM.

A son of GENESIS cow Tasket (the 2012 number one LNM and TPI cow), 1HO11427 TAURINO (Day x Planet) debuts at +$812 LNM and possesses outstanding conformation figures: +2.58 PTA Type and +2.70 Udder Composite. Daughters should also exhibit longevity as indicated by his +7.7 Productive Life.

An outcross sire, 1HO10895 PRAISE (Yano x Champ) also has an incredible ability to improve herd health and fitness with +7.7 Productive Life, +2.50 SCS and +2.4 DPR.

With superb component yields (+61 lbs Protein, +101 lbs Fat), Massey grandson 1HO11022 SALVINO stands at +$915 Cheese Merit. His LNM (+$807) is also impressive. Appealing conformation (+2.46 Type) and outstanding udders (+2.26 Udder Composite) are also part of his repertoire.

J Dam of TAURINO: Ms Pride Plnt Tasket 788-ET, VG-85, VG-MS

MORE SIRES TO WATCHSince his release last December, 1HO10396 CABRIOLET has continued

to amaze. He is an exciting outcross sire with +$874 LNM, +1585 lbs Milk and a whopping +158 lbs combined Fat and Protein!

If you are looking for well put together sires that know how to put milk in the tank, look no further, 1HO10788 JACEY tops our TPI list with +2468. He adds +1716 lbs Milk and +134 lbs combined Fat and Protein. 1HO10824 TANGO is the complete conformation package with +2.99 Type, +3.11 Udder Composite and +2.24 Foot & Leg Composite. With an impressive +2238 lbs of Milk, you will notice his daughters in the herd!

GENEX AGAINDOMINATESTHE LIFETIMENET MERIT LIST1HO09800 ERDMAN (Planet x Ramos)

claimed the top of the daughter-proven Lifetime Net Merit (LNM) list with +$803. 1HO08784 FREDDIE remained high again this proof run coming in at #4 with +$747 LNM. 1HO09527 MASSEY came in sixth (+$711 LNM) and 1HO09167 O-STYLE grabbed the #11 spot with a LNM of +$678.

J Co-op RB Erdman Alane-ET

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P R O O F H I G H L I G H T S

Get The Inside Scoop!It’s that time again … when new sire evaluations are released and the latest bulls appear in the Genex lineup. Staying up-to-date on the new information to maintain genetic progress in your herd isn’t impossible. You may just need … the inside scoop.

1JE00711 PLUSTHE COMPLETE PACKAGE!

PLUS leads the charge as the #1 JPI sire! This Iatola son is now at 98%

reliability on his production proof and +222 JPI with over 600 daughters in his type proof. At +1.7 Type with a JUI of +2.78, he still maintains over 1700 pounds of Milk in his proof. PLUS daughters put milk in the tank and look good doing it!

J Grazeland Plus Krystaleen, VG-87%

NEW ‘P’OLLED SIRES

Three new additions are polled sires. 1JE00845 DOMINIC-P is

a breed leader for polled genetics at +296 JPI, +$519 CM and +3.90 JUI.1JE00842 LANCELOT-P is a power house on JUI at +6.06! This Critic-P son out of Celebrity is +1.7 on Type with a +0.4 DPR and +3.4 Productive Life. 1JE00840 MALIBU-P comes in at +$500 CM and an impressive +4.74 JUI. This Critic-P x Legion is a great Fat sire at +0.18% with +161 JPI.

GENEX CONTINUES THE JERSEY EVOLUTION s Now offering nearly 40 Jersey sires s #1 JPI™ sire in the breed 1JE00711 PLUS

s Breed-leading +$680 Cheese Merit (CM) from 1JE00792 MACHETE

s 14 sires over +$540 CM s 14 sires over +3.50 Jersey Udder Index™14 sires over +3.50 Jersey Udder Index™14 sires over +3.50 Jersey Udder Index (JUI) s 12 sires over +200 JPI s 15 sires over +1.5 PTA Type

NEW ADDITIONSGenex added 10 new Jersey sires to our lineup including three above +$600 CM!

1JE00843 FLASHBACK is an exciting DOMINICAN son with +$667 CM and an 1JE00843 FLASHBACK is an exciting DOMINICAN son with +$667 CM and an 1JE00843 FLASHBACKelite JPI of +229. FLASHBACK leads the charge on health traits with an impressive +1.0 Daughter Pregnancy Rate (DPR) and huge +6.4 Productive Life. He is +1.2 on Type and +2.96 JUI. 1JE00846 CHUCK is another new DOMINICAN son added to the 1JE00846 CHUCK is another new DOMINICAN son added to the 1JE00846 CHUCKlineup. He ranks third in our list for CM at +$633, with over 110 pounds combined Fat and Protein and an impressive +1.2 Type. He also boasts a +3.36 JUI and +213 JPI. 1JE00838 AJAX is a DOMINICAN x Renegade that goes back to the great Anthem family from Sunset Canyon. Ranking fourth in our lineup for CM at +$607, AJAX is also +204 and in our top 10 for JPI. In addition, he is a big health trait leader with +1.3 DPR and +5.6 Productive Life. 1JE00849 UPBEAT is our leader for JUI with an impressive +6.52. This Visionary son also ranks in well in JPI at +206 and is our Type leader at +2.5. 1JE00847 EVOLUTION also has a huge JUI at +6.22. Right at +200 JPI this Paul x Valentino is a nice combination of Milk (+1238) and Type (+1.8)Type (+1.8)T . 1JE00848 ILLUSION is another Visionary son out of a Tbone with an impressive +215 JPI. He also comes in with a +3.85 JUI. 1JE00829 ACCURACY is a different pedigree being an Arrow x CSCNavara. ACCURACY is +194 JPI with an impressive +133 pounds of combined Fat and Protein.

MORE UPWARD TRENDS1JE00792 MACHETE dominates the Jersey CM list taking a huge jump to +$680 with

+137 pounds combined Fat and Protein and still maintaining over 1500 pounds of Milk. In addition he has a +236 JPI making him our leader for JPI as well. 1JE00654 ALLSTARincreased in both JPI (+160) as well as CM (+$575). With an exceptional pedigree this Maximus son out of the legendary Sunset Canyon MBSB Anthem-ET, EX-95% has earnedgreat customer satisfaction. With over 700 daughters in his type proof, ALLSTAR maintains +1.0 on Type and +3.98 JUI, complemented by great fertility (+3.6 Sire Conception Rate, 103 PregCheck™). 1JE00803 SCORE jumped in JPI to +212 and CM to +$536. This Vibrant son adds exceptional milk yield and elite longevity. 1JE00700 LEXICON took a leap in JPI now at +179 earning him the #17 position on the JPI list of daughter-proven sires. Rising to +4.26 JUI, this Lexington son is +$523 CM with positive Fat and Protein percentages. This “no holes” sire also increased his Sire Conception Rate (SCR) to +1.4. 1JE00801 MADDENcrossed the 200 JPI threshold. He is an extremely well balanced sire with a +3.0 SCR. J Dam of MACHETE: Sunset Canyon

Impuls L Maid 4-ET, VG-87%

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P R O O F H I G H L I G H T S

GENESISIN THE BEGINNING … TH

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TURE O F Y O U R H E R D AND OURS


U R S

25Y E A R S

25 YEARS LATER: CELEBRATING OUR SILVER ANNIVERSARY

With the new year comes a new celebration – 2014 marks the silver anniversary of the GENESIS Cooperative Herd. The GENESIS herd idea was conceived and developed back in 1989.

Twenty-five years later, the positive impact is undeniable.

Angie Coburn, Associate Vice President-Dairy Genetics, explains the what, how and why of GENESIS.

A SILVER ANNIVERSARYCELEBRATION

Q: WHAT IS GENESIS? WHY HAS IT LASTED 25 YEARS? A: The GENESIS Cooperative Herd is a herd of Holstein and

Jersey cattle owned by the Genex membership. Co-op prefix females reside at 12 cooperator herds and five production facilities. GENESIS females are managed to develop the next generation of bulls that transmit genetic characteristics of high profitability for today’s dairy operations.

GENESIS was built on a foundation of rapid genetic progress and accurate female genetic evaluations. In other words, we have focused on management of elite commercial females in a real-world setting. These founding principles enable us to celebrate this silver anniversary and claim the longest running nucleus breeding program in North America.

Q: HOW WAS THE GENESIS HERD INITIATED?A: In 1989, with support from the 21st Century Genetics board of

directors, dairy genetics staff obtained more than 50 heifers to begin a trial. As stated in an article in the cooperative’s Visionsnewsletter from November 1989, the trial was to evaluate use of an embryo program to “supply healthy, young bulls for the young sire sampling program that can meet the increasingly strict health requirements of the future.” Obviously that trial was successful and the GENESIS herd has since been greatly expanded.

Q: WHAT ARE THE BREEDING GOALS OF GENESIS?A: The goal stated back in that newsletter article from 1989 was

“to make available higher genetic merit bulls that will return more profit to the cooperative and its members.” My definition of today’s breeding goals are quite similar: we select for profitable genetics as defined by our members’ needs.

To effectively accomplish this objective, we have to “draw To effectively accomplish this objective, we have to “draw Twater from a deep well.” In other words, we select the best females from more than 45,000 milking cows and breeding age heifers housed among the 19 sites. These donor females provide not only elite genetics, but unequaled genetic diversity. The final result is sires that provide you the opportunity to easily improve the genetics of your herd and a no fuss means to manage inbreeding.

Q: HOW HAS GENOMICS AFFECTED THE GENESIS HERD?A: As part of the early research, nearly the entire GENESIS

herd was genomic tested in 2008. The results immediately validated past efforts to breed for elite and accurate genetics. Now with genomic selection of males and females at a very young age, we are able to better accomplish GENESIS goals of faster genetic progress with shorter generation intervals. The pure speed of genomics is almost fantastic. In only a three-year period the number of GENESIS females ranking in the top 5% of the industry increased by tenfold.

Q: WHAT MAKES GENESIS GENETICS ACCURATE?A: The facts prove GENESIS has powerful precision. In addition

to the unbiased herd environments, the extensive genomic testing of GENESIS cow families and their herdmates improves the accuracy and stability of genomic predictions of Co-op prefix bulls. Genex members and customers can have confidence in the genetics they use in their herds.

Q: WHY HAS GENESIS EXPANDED INTO JERSEYS IN 2013?A: The growth of the Jersey breed is far beyond a fad and

arguably the most noticeable trend in the U.S. dairy industry. In August, we announced the inclusion of Jerseys, an initiative endorsed by the Genex board of directors. Through the inclusion of Jerseys, we plan to increase the availability of Jersey semen globally and develop genetics that provide maximum profit potential and adequate diversity for our members and customers. Like other GENESIS initiatives, this program complements the sire acquisitions we conduct with many valued producers. Together we can develop Jersey genetics that carry this breed to new heights.

Q: WHO HAVE BEEN SOME OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL GENESIS ANIMALS?A: 1HO09527 MASSEY and 1HO09167 O-STYLE are two well-

recognized GENESIS sires today.

O-STYLE’s dam, Kings-Ransom TM Deva CRI-ET, VG-88, VG-MS, DOM was a prolific embryo donor and was flushed up until 12 years of age. Unlike most bull mothers, Deva’s genetic ranking made her relevant late in life with the ability to transmit the magic combination of high yield while improving DPR and Udder Composite. Until her death earlier this year, it was thought Deva was among the seven oldest living cows in the U.S. over +$550 Lifetime Net Merit (LNM).

A maternal sister to MASSEY is Co-op Boliver Yoyo-ET, VG-85, VG-MS, DOM, the former number one LNM and GTPI cow of 2011. When genomic breeding values were first released, Yoyo was a young heifer and one of the first flushes where we utilized a genomic-proven mating sire. The result was 1HO10097 YUENGLING – the first bull in the U.S. to be marketed as the result of using two yearling animals as parents.

Following Yoyo as the number one cow in 2012 was MS Pride Plnt Tasket 788-ET,ET,ET VG-85. With her spectacular udder, Tasket is a medium-sized cow standing on a correct set of feet and legs. Thus she is the balance of profitable conformation from which to breed. Her 38 offspring already genomic tested average an outstanding +$736 LNM, including six bulls over +$800 LNM.

marketed as the result of using two yearling animals as parents.

THE



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25Y E A R S

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G E N E T I C A L L Y S P E A K I N G

COOPERATOR HERD:RIVER-BRIDGEHOLSTEINSBRILLION, WISCONSIN

Like many dairy farm families, the Ott family at River-Bridge Holsteins has a long history in dairy farming. Today the dairy

is owned and operated by a husband and wife team – Lyle and Sharon – and three sons Ryan, Cory and Shay. Lyle’s father purchased the site of the current farm and milked cows there beginning back in the 1940s. Lyle’s grandfather had farmed at another nearby location.

Lyle has now owned cows for nearly 50 years. Lyle and Sharon bought the farm from Lyle’s father in 1973. However, Lyle had owned cattle long before that. As he explained, he purchased his first cow in 1964. It was a registered cow for his FFA project.

The dairy originally consisted of a 60-cow tiestall barn, but in fall 2006 Lyle, Sharon and their three sons made the decision to expand. They put together plans and built a new freestall barn along with a double-10 herringbone parlor. The new freestall enabled the family to grow their herd from its then size of 80 milking cows. With an eye on genetics, son Cory explained their decision was to expand the herd, primarily from within, over time. Presently they are milking about 225 cows. Around 99% of the herd is registered Holsteins.

Family Roles Each family member has their role on the dairy. Lyle is active on all fronts assisting in herd management and conducting artificial insemination (A.I.). Sharon completes all of the accounting and bookwork for the dairy. Son Ryan enjoys fieldwork and handles feeding the herd. Cory has the role of herd manager. In Cory’s words, brother Shay does a little of everything. He takes care of the calves and heifers, but fulfills numerous other roles too.

Herd Genetics In the role of herd manager, Cory makes the majority of the farm’s genetic decisions, and he seems fit for the responsibility. Cory was involved in his family’s farm growing up and throughout high school. In the fall of 1996, he enrolled in the University of Wisconsin-Madison Farm and Industry Short Course. From 2000 until 2004, he was employed full-time at Genex breeding cows, assisting with the picturing of cows,

mating cows through MAP™ (Mating Appraisal for Profit) and fulfilling several other duties. In 2005, he decided to go back to the farm full time.

Cory’s employment with Genex had given him a glimpse into the GENESIS Cooperative Herd. He explained how he had assisted several times with the picturing of GENESIS females at cooperator herds like Harmony-Ho Holsteins and United Pride Dairy, LLC. It was that experience that led Cory to incorporate some GENESIS genetics into the River-Bridge Holsteins herd starting in 2003. In 2009, River-Bridge Holsteins was designated a GENESIS cooperator herd.

Cory obviously enjoys good genetics. One could hear the excitement in his voice upon mention of 1HO11056 River-Bridge Co-op TROY-ET, the industry’s number one Lifetime Net Merit (LNM) bull 12 months old or older according to the December 2013 sire summaries, who was born at River-Bridge Holsteins. TROY is a Mogul from Co-op RB Freddie Tinley-ET, VG-85. The next dam is A-Elsbernd Tinker CRI-ET by Mascol, followed by a VG-87 Trent. The maternal granddam, Tinker, is the result of an embryo purchased for GENESIS back in 2005. Like Cory, many throughout the industry are excited about 14-month-old TROY. This family should impact the industry for years to come as TROY has several maternal siblings coming by Tango, Primus *RC, Skyline, Morgan, Predestine, Willpower, Yowza and Stoic.

G Co-op RB Freddie Tinley, VG-85, a cow from River-Bridge Holsteins and dam of the industry’s number one Lifetime Net Merit (LNM) bull 12 months old or older – 1HO11056 TROY.

Cory Ott of River-Bridge Holsteins H

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H E R D S T O R Y

GENESIS

Co-op Boliver Yoyo-ET, VG-85 (the industry’s top LNM and GTPI cow of 2011) also called River-Bridge Holsteins home during her first lactation and while being actively flushed. Currently Genex and CRI are marketing two Yoyo sons developed by River-Bridge: 1HO10696 Co-op RB RBT YOVANI-ET (+$781 LNM) and 1HO10853 Co-op RB SMRK YATES-ET (+$751 LNM). Yoyo’s female highlights at River-Bridge Holsteins include Co-op RB Robust Yonder-ET (+$741 LNM) and Co-op RB Robust Yonkers-ET (+$739 LNM). A Yoyo granddaughter (Mogul x Clark) with a +$762 LNM and +3.56 Udder Composite also resides on the farm.

J 1HO10696 YOVANI

J 1HO10853 YATES

The Otts have done a great job developing the River-Bridge Planet Bow cow family too. This family traces back to one of the original GENESIS females incorporated into the River-Bridge herd in 2003. Bow currently has a +$868 LNM Numero Uno daughter being flushed for creation of future GENESIS generations.

While producing cows and bulls of great genetics is something to be proud of, we all know it also takes hard work. Cory and his father are the ones out there each day conducting A.I., and their local veterinarian completes the embryo work flushing three to four cows each month. Cory must believe the work is worth it because he and his family are prepared to care for future generations of elite genetics; they are just completing construction of a brand new calf barn.

In the end, it all comes down to the fact Cory likes “cows that look nice and milk well.”

This is the first in a series of stories on the GENESIS cooperator herds. Follow the GENESIS 25-year celebration and cooperator herd features throughout the year.

GENESIS COOPERATOR HERDSThe more than 45,000 milking and breeding age females within the GENESIS

Cooperative Herd are housed at five production sites and 14 cooperator herds. The cooperator herds are located throughout the U.S. and Canada. The dairies’ owners and staff contribute their expertise and time to raising calves, performing embryo transfer and milking GENESIS females.

It is within these cooperator herds that GENESIS females put their performance to the test. Cows are intensely managed to optimize production and must compete against herdmates sired by bulls of equally high genetic merit. These cooperator herds are the unbiased real-world setting that contributes to the credibility and stability of GENESIS animals’ genetic evaluations.

s Aardema Dairies, Jerome, Idaho

s Brandvale Dairy Farm, Ellsworth, Wis.

s Brown-Star Farms, Gillett, Wis.

s Double A Dairy, Jerome, Idaho

s Dryhouse Farm, Belleville, Pa.

s Dykstra Dairy, Maurice, Iowa

s Fairmont Farm Inc., East Montpelier, Vt.

s Harmony-Ho Holsteins, Stratford, Wis.

s Heidi Farms Inc., Bainsville, Ontario, Can.

s Hyde-Park Holsteins, Zumbro Falls, Minn.

s River-Bridge Holsteins, Brillion, Wis.

s Schmidt’s Ponderosa, Bonduel, Wis.

s Spring Prairie Dairy, Hawley, Minn.

s United Pride Dairy, LLC, Phillips, Wis.

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H E R D S T O R Y

LONG-TIME SCR LEADER

Released in April 2013!

PregCheCk ™sire fertility ranking

Released in December 2013!

PregCheCk+™

sire fertility ranking for sexed semen

The Next Step …he Next Step

Released in August 2013!

SynChCheCk ™sire fertility ranking for use with

synchronization programs

Your Fertility Leader Has Taken the Next Step.

Now It’s Time to Take Yours: Use high fertility sires from your fertility leader!

INTRODUCING A SIRE FERTILITY RANKING FORGENCHOICE ™ BULLS

Earlier in 2013, Genex unveiled two new internal fertility rankings, PregCheck™ and SynchCheck™. Today, the

cooperative publicly announces the unveiling of a third internal fertility ranking, PregCheck+™. Referred to as PregCheck Plus, the new fertility ranking is specifically designed for the cooperative’s GenChoice 90™ sexed semen product.

The PregCheck+ system utilizes pregnancy check data, rather than non-return information, enabling your cooperative to make quicker and more accurate fertility estimates on bulls.

PregCheck+ is easy to use. The ranking uses the same 100-base scale as both PregCheck and SynchCheck. In this scale, 100 is average. Every point difference is equivalent to a 1% difference in conception rate. For example, if bull A has a PregCheck+ of 108 and bull B has a PregCheck+ of 100, bull A is predicted to be 8% higher in conception rate than bull B.

PregCheck+ results are available through your Genex representative. We are excited to introduce PregCheck+ and believe our unique data collection and evaluation system will continue to position Genex as the undisputed fertility leader!

PregCheCkA sire fertility ranking

Advantages: • Based on pregnancy check data

(rather than nonreturn data)• Speed of data collection and

processing provides fertility rankings sooner than past systems

• Available on Holsteins and Jerseys• Easy to use!

SynChCheCkA ranking indicating sire fertility when used in a synchronization program.

Advantages:• The only fertility ranking specifically

for use with synch programs• Available on Holsteins• Easy to use!

PregCheCk+A fertility ranking on sires available in GenChoice 90.

Advantages:• Based on pregnancy check data

(rather than nonreturn data)• Available on Holsteins and Jerseys• Easy to use!

FERTILITY DOMINATION COMMITMENT CONTINUES

We are proud of our history in delivering high fertility sires and have made it our mission to continue providing key advancements to improve the sustainability in dairy farming.

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I N T H E N E W S

By: Anne Davison // Regional Account Specialist, Genex

MONITOR, MOTIVATE AND MANAGEWITH DAIRY PERFORMANCE NAVIGATOR

Figure 1Figure 1

Figure 2Figure 2

Figure 3Figure 3

Figure 4Figure 4

MMonitor, motivate and manage are three words that onitor, motivate and manage are three words that onitor, motivate and manage are three words that onitor, motivate and manage are three words that come to mind when I think about Dairy Performance come to mind when I think about Dairy Performance come to mind when I think about Dairy Performance come to mind when I think about Dairy Performance

NavigatorSM (DPN) and important aspects of dairy farms in the 21st century. I am a member of the Genex U.S. Technical Services team working as a Regional Account Specialist in the northeast U.S., and DPN is a powerful Web-based program that allows me to take herd information and translate it into powerful profit metrics and trends.

Those metrics and trends allow producers to monitor their dairy’s performance over time as well as compare to a benchmark of herds similar in size or in the same region. Seeing where the dairy excels and where there is opportunity for improvement can be very motivating. In turn, this understanding can enable you get a better handle on the management of important aspects of herd profitability such as: herd inventory, reproduction, production, culling, milk quality, etc.

I want to show you how I use DPN to bring knowledge and power to producers. DPN is a program meant to collect data over time. Just like most everything in life, the more you put into it, the more you can get out of it. From an accuracy point of view, I like to have a download or back up of herd management information to put into DPN at least once a month for every herd using the program.

Before meeting with a producer and/or the herd management team, I analyze the dairy’s data within DPN. The DPN dashboard provides a quick overview of herd trends on easy-to read graphs. Figures 1 through 4 are example of graphs from the dashboard.

Figure 1. Herd Inventory: Cow and heifer numbers have stayed fairly consistent. There was a slight decrease in stayed fairly consistent. There was a slight decrease in replacements starting in August. That decrease opens up a question as to why.

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H E R D M A N A G E M E N T

Figure 2. Pregnancy Rate by Lactation: All lactations had a decrease in pregnancy rate from August through October. They are now back on the rise in November. The pregnancy rate decline was most likely due to summer heat.

Figure 3. Average Production: Milk production averages increased from April to July. Averages then decreased from 99 lbs per cow to 85 lbs per cow in October. The average is now back to 90 lbs. This leads to further investigation and discussion on what changed within that time period.

Figure 4. Heifer Pregnancy Rate and Conception Rate by Month: The heifer pregnancy rate and conception rate increased in July. For the past several months they have leveled out, decreasing only slightly from peak rates.

As you can see, the dashboard provides a quick glimpse into what has changed in a herd over time. It obviously also brings up a lot of questions. To help find some of those answers, one has to dig deeper into the program and the data it provides. Each topic area – herd inventory, cow reproduction, culling, production, milk quality and so on – includes much more in-depth data points. In this example, I will provide a further look into the cow reproduction and production information.

Cow Reproduction One of my favorite features of DPN is that information is provided in both graphic and table form. Table 1 includes just a very small portion of the cow reproduction information covered within the program. The table provides a benchmark, the herd’s within the program. The table provides a benchmark, the herd’s rolling 12-month average for each data point and month by month figures. The particular herd in this example is in the top 10% of herds for average milk by herd size. As you can see, their pregnancy rate is slightly lower than the benchmark, but appears to be increasing following the “summer slump.” The percent of cows pregnant in the herd by 150 days in milk (DIM) is well above the benchmark. The percent of herd pregnant is slightly above the benchmark, having risen again following the hot months of the year. The herd’s 12-month rolling average service rate is fantastic at 6.8 points above the benchmark.

Another section of DPN within the cow reproduction area breaks down conception rate by lactation (1st, 2nd, 3rd and greater). Table 2 shows conception rate information for first lactation animals. As you can see, the herd does a good job of getting animals pregnant on the first service. They have a 12-month rolling first service conception rate of 53%.

Percent of pregnant cows by 150 DIM is well above the benchmark. Percent of herd pregnant is right where it should be. Service rate is fantastic at 61.3% .

Slight decrease in overall conception

Benchmark

Pregnancy rate is slightly lower than the benchmark.

o Table 1

o Table 2o Table 2

This herd does a good job getting animals pregnant on the first service with a rolling 12-month conception rate of 53%.

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Production Now, let’s move on to the herd’s production information. Table 3 is an example of some of the more in-depth production data within DPN. The data is displayed similarly to the reproduction section in that columns name the data point and show the benchmark, rolling 12-month herd average and month-by-month numbers.

In this particular herd, you can see that milk production peaked at 99 lbs during June. The herd is also at the benchmark for average DIM. The herd’s rolling 12-month average for average peak milk is at 111 lbs, just short of the 113 lb benchmark. Average days to peak production has improved. The December 2012 data shows peak production at 111 DIM. In the most recent month, November 2013, milk production is peaking at 74 DIM.

ConsultingWhen I bring DPN to the farm, I develop a report summarizing the key events that have occurred over a given time period (Figure 5). A printed version of the report allows farm management team members to look over all important graphs and tables.

DPN is a great program to help the farm management team monitor, motivate and manage. The knowledge it can provide is vast. With the ability to watch trends develop over weeks, months and eventually years, it can give producers a huge advantage in developing and monitoring management strategies.

Remember that DPN is not meant to replace good management practices but enhance what is already there. And, I understand that not all answers can be found on the computer. You also have to look at the cows out in the barn. In the end, those cows are the absolute vital organs of a dairy farm. But, if something seems awry, DPN is a good place to start. It can help farm management teams figure out when the problem may have started and thereby help to determine steps to remedy the issue.

For more information on DPN please feel free to contact your local Genex representative.

HigHligHts

1 Production is on an increase

2 Slight decrease in pregnancy rate for lactations 1 and 3

3 Excellent % of Herd Pregnant

4 Overall Conception rate has had a slight decrease but is now back on the rise

Figure 5

Milk peaked at 99 lbs in June.

Their rolling 12 average peak milk is 111 lbs, only a few pounds shy of the benchmark.

At benchmark for average DIM.

o Table 3

Last year in December production peaked on average at 111 DIM. Gradually the cows have started to peak earlier. With the most recent back up on 11/13/12, they are peaking at 74 DIM.

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Cory Ott of River-Bridge Holsteins, a GENESIS Cooperator Herd, sizes up two GENESIS cows. From left to right, Co-op Boliver Alexis-ET, dam of 1HO10471 ADIDAS and Co-op Ramos Megan-ET, dam of 1HO10647 MEANDER.

An A.I. industry geneticist was recently quoted saying, “Body size is a very heritable trait, and the current selection practices are leading to bigger and bigger cows." While this is true at some studs, Genex leads the way in creating more medium-sized cows.

N U M B E R O F S I R E S ≥ +2 . 0 S TAT U R EGENEX ABS ACCELERATED ALTA SELECT SEMEX

35 55 130 55 79 77

We believe the future centers around the medium-sized cow. We want to be your partner in reducing inputs and retaining yields to maximize margins. Let us help you breed the most healthy, cost-effective cow possible.

Pick the size that fits your herd goals.

Read the article: http://bit.ly/IOOEuX

SIZING-UP YOUR FUTURE


By: Steve Esch // Beef Product Support Specialist, Genex

RAPID GROWTH ADDING VALUE TO DAIRY WITH BEEF

The end of the year is fast approaching and along with it, over a year of Breeding to Feeding™ success. If you haven’t heard about this program, it is a new and innovative breeding program designed to incorporate beef genetics into dairy herds to add value to the lower genetic merit animals.

Herds produce a beef x dairy crossbred calf from their lower genetic merit animals and, in turn, stay focused on maximizing genetic progress by utilizing only superior dairy female progeny for replacement heifer production. The resulting crossbreds add more value by being more efficient feed converters and by having more muscle. The process transforms dairy carcasses into beef carcasses, which helps dairy producers capture premiums in the beef market.

This summer the first calves – from dairies that adopted Breeding to Feeding early on – were born and transported to participating calf ranches. At about 400 pounds, those crossbred calves will then enter feedlots with a targeted finished weight of 1350 to 1450 pounds.

Breeding to Feeding operates as an alliance program between Genex and Wulf Cattle. Adam Zeltwanger of Wulf Cattle had the opportunity to visit with many Genex members and customers. “In my travels over the past year, I have seen dairymen ‘warm up’ to the program. We are now seeing Breeding to Feeding being embraced by a large number of dairies and that number is increasing steadily.”

In comparing the first three months of Breeding to Feeding to the most recent three, program utilization has doubled. Currently participating calf ranches are located in eight different major cow pockets around the U.S. to help facilitate program growth.

Wulf Cattle and Genex have teamed together to add value to dairy bull calves. The Wulf Cattle and Genex have teamed together to add value to dairy bull calves. The Wstate of today’s beef industry, tight supplies and record low beef cattle numbers, gives dairy producers an opportunity to capture more revenue by utilizing low genetic merit dairy animals to produce a consistent supply of superior beef x dairy calves.dairy animals to produce a consistent supply of superior beef x dairy calves.d

Here’s how it works:1. Develop a breeding strategy including Wulf Limousin semen on Jersey or Lim-Flex®evelop a breeding strategy including Wulf Limousin semen on Jersey or Lim-Flex®evelop a breeding strategy including Wulf Limousin semen on Jersey or Lim-Flex on Holsteins.® on Holsteins.®

2. Genex-produced semen is delivered, and designated dairy cows are inseminated.3. Calves are born on the dairy and routinely transported to participating calf ranches.4. The resulting crossbred bull and heifer calves are purchased by Wulf Cattle.The resulting crossbred bull and heifer calves are purchased by Wulf Cattle.T5. The dairy receives a premium based on current Holstein bull calf market prices.The dairy receives a premium based on current Holstein bull calf market prices.T

BREEDING FEEDING

WULF x GENEX CONNECTING SUPPLY AND DEMAND

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The Beef Supply Situation The beef production system is hungry for a consistent, uniform and efficient supply of high quality cattle to fill consumers’ needs. Breeding to Feeding is the proven program to get the job done. The beef market faces a number of challenges as they deal with the smallest number of beef cows in the U.S. in over 60 years along with a current and projected short supply of feeder cattle. High feed costs are the reality, so feed conversion and efficiency become that much more important. Dairy cattle calve year round, compared to beef cattle which calve seasonally, so this is a welcome opportunity for feedlot owners.

Today’s high feed input costs require the need for better feed efficiencies. Limousin and Today’s high feed input costs require the need for better feed efficiencies. Limousin and TLim-Flex crosses are proven, to be just what the packing industry needs: a consistent quality supply of feeders in an economically challenged beef cow/quality supply of feeders in an economically challenged beef cow/quality supply of feeders in an economically challenged beef cow calf climate.

Based on Real-World Data The Breeding to Feeding concept was proven in real world situations before being introduced.

Genex and Wulf Cattle screen over 400 Limousin and Lim-Flex bulls for fertility and calving ease annually. Only bulls meeting specific requirements enter the testing stage. Those bulls then participate in field trials at Riverview Dairy, a partner of Wulf Cattle, before they can officially become Breeding to Feeding sires.

Another example of being driven by real-world data is the successful results from harvesting the initial Breeding to Feeding crossbred animals. Those positive results enabled Wulf Cattle to recently increase premiums paid for calves entering the buyback program.

Wulf Cattle’s commitment to research, resources and predictable genetics is what truly makes this program unique. Jerry Wulf, president of Wulf Cattle, states, “We as producers are faced with the daily challenge of producing more to help feed our growing population, and to do as much as possible while being aware of the environmental footprint.”

He goes on to say, “We have proven that through this program we can produce both milk and beef from the same animal, and do it efficiently with the use of Limousin genetics.”

Advantages to the Dairy

• Less young stock on feed reducing overall feed costs

• Raising only high quality dairy replacements

• Producing desired amount of dairy females to meet current needs and thereby improving overall efficiencies

• Breeding to Feeding bulls chosen for proven fertility and good calving ease

• Buyback assurance for all healthy calves at a market premium (both males and females)

I challenge you to think about the opportunity and the current, as well as projected, short supply of beef on the market. Dairy cull cows influence the beef market today, but now through Breeding to Feeding, dairymen can have an even bigger role in the fed cattle market. The short supply of beef feeder cattle and record low beef cow numbers in the U.S. are not going to change anytime soon. Therefore, the impact this program can have on the beef supply is exciting and will continue for years to come.

The joint effort between Genex and Wulf Cattle brings the support and attention to detail that assures long-term success working with dairy herds. This truly is a cooperative effort to provide a long-term solution facing the beef industry while improving profits and efficiencies on your dairy.

For more details on Breeding to Feeding, contact your local Genex representative or Steve Esch at 888.333.1783 or [email protected].

Step-by-Step Maximizing the Value of Calves

• Establish dairy goals for genetic quality and number of calves born per year based on economics, barriers and opportunities.

• Determine number of heifer replacement calves needed per year to meet future herd goals.

• Use Calf Math™ to compare potential breeding strategy outcomes.

• Determine the most effective combination of semen products to create your ideal profit opportunity.

• Rank females genetically using tools such as the AgSource Genetic Selection Guide, genomic testing, parent average or other custom genetic sorts.

• Utilize GenChoice™ on the herd’s high-quality heifers to increase genetic progress.

• Make lower genetic merit calves more marketable and increase profits. Create beef x dairy crosses through Breeding to Feeding™ with semen tested in dairy herds for fertility and calving ease. Use Wulf Limousin on Jerseys and Lim-Flex® (Limousin x Angus) on Holsteins.

• Determine and communicate protocols for mating and breeding to get the preferred semen product into individual cows and heifers.

An Award-Winning Program Breeding to Feeding earned a Dairy Herd Management Innovation Award at the 2013 World Dairy Expo. The award was based on program originality, usefulness and value to dairy producers.

RAPID GROWTH ADDING VALUE TO DAIRY WITH BEEF

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By: Melina Paixão // Public Relations, CRI Brazil J Carlos Raimundo dos Santos and his son, Lucas dos Santos, utilize CRI genetics to produce cattle that deliver good milk quantity and quality.

Mr. Carlos Raimundo dos Santos used to think milking cows would be a great way to enjoy his retirement. The

activities at Santo Antonio dos Dois Córregos Farm started in 2001, as a hobby. In the beginning, 20 cows were milked, producing around 240 liters per day. The job has grown, and nowadays the dairy is a progressive example within the region south of Minas Gerais, Paraíba Valley region, with a focus on environmentally friendly production and management. Lucas dos Santos, Carlos’ son, joined his father in this initiative. They work hard to see their Holstein cattle always improving.

The Santos’ farm is located in Jesuânia, South of Minas Gerais – Brazil. It has 200 hectares (494 acres) and 820 cows have been raised there. They milk 410 cows, three times daily and a total of 12,500 liters are sent to the processors each day. The herd average is 30 liters per day, and it is milked in a double-8 herringbone parlor.

With a focus on milk quality, the final product showcases high quality levels of fat, protein and SCC compared to the large herds in the world. Fat and protein percentages are high, around 3.0% fat and 3.12% protein. Because of these characteristics, processors pay well for the Santo Antonio’s milk, making milking cows an economically sustainable activity.

Well Done Management The Santos’ herd operates in a freestall system. The more productive cows are fed six times a day and the others twice a day. The cattle have a diet based on corn, soy beans, corn meal, citrus pulp, cottonseed, hay, baled hay and mineral.

At Santo Antonio Farm, corn, oat and Tifton grass are cultivated, all used to produce feed. This is a positive as it helps to reduce feed costs.

The sand bedding, within the freestall barn where the herd is housed, is handled constantly so cows are comfortable at all the times. Temperature inside the freestall is another priority; therefore, ventilators and sprinklers are used to make the environment pleasant for the animals.

Besides Carlos and Lucas, 23 other employees help at Santo Antonio dos Dois Córregos Farm. These individuals milk cows or work as managers.

Genetics as an Ally Since the herd was formed, semen from CRI Holstein bulls has been used in the Santos’ business. “Today, almost all the herd is CRI,” said Lucas. In the past, they have utilized genetics from 1HO07235 TOYSTORY, 1HO08784 FREDDIE, 1HO08778 SUPER and 1HO10220 PAX-RED. Their last purchase included genetics from 1HO09527 MASSEY, 1HO10490 GALAXY, 1HO10219 JUNIOR, 1HO10369 LOYAL and 1HO10860 HURK-RED.

Presently, first lactation daughters of TOYSTORY, SUPER and PAX-RED are producing an average of 38 liters daily while in varied stages of lactation, explained Lucas.

The responses to the investments in genetics from CRI can be noticed in the high rates of fertility. “We have 86% of the cows in lactation,” Lucas said. Besides this, the satisfactory rate of conception is 30%.

GenChoice™ sexed semen is used in heifers for the first insemination. Conventional semen is used for other inseminations. The Santos execute fixed time artificial insemination protocols. If a cow does not get pregnant by this technique, bulls are used. The voluntary waiting period is 45 days. If a cow has some reproductive problems, they induce estrus and if not pregnant, she is culled. This procedure helps in the selection of the dairy cattle.

What can be Expected from a Milking Cow? Production, health and “True Type” are the most important characteristics the Santos expect in their dairy cattle. Mr. Santos and Lucas rely on the CRI Holstein bulls’ ability to transmit these characteristics to their calves.

The results achieved in the Santo Antonio dos Dois Córregos Farm are: cattle with solid genetics, good production and high milk quality. And these attributes are recognized when they sell their product.

COMPETITIVE DAIRY CATTLE IN BRAZILTHE SANTOS’ HERD SHOWS BRAZILIAN POTENTIAL TO PRODUCE GOOD MILK IN THE TROPICS

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H E R D S T O R Y

Cory Ott of River-Bridge Holsteins, a GENESIS Cooperator Herd, sizes up two GENESIS cows. From left to right, Co-op Boliver Alexis-ET, dam of 1HO10471 ADIDAS and Co-op Ramos Megan-ET, dam of 1HO10647 MEANDER.

An A.I. industry geneticist was recently quoted, saying “… slowing the trend of increasing body size clearly will improve producer profitability.” It appears some studs are trying harder than others to help you improve your profits. Genex leads the way in creating more medium-sized cows.

N U M B E R O F S I R E S ≤ +1. 0 S TAT U R EGENEX ABS ACCELERATED ALTA SELECT SEMEX

93 66 26 62 44 23

We believe the future centers around the medium-sized cow. We want to be your partner in reducing inputs and retaining yields to maximize margins. Let us help you breed the most healthy, cost-effective cow possible.

Pick the size that fits your herd goals.

Read the article: http://bit.ly/IOOEuX

SIZING-UP YOUR FUTURE


NAVIGATINGPROFITPATHWAYS

USDA/12-13, AJCA/12-13

• GenChoice ™ • Fertility • Breeding to FeedingSM • Genetics • Peoplety • Breeding to FeedingSMty • Breeding to FeedingSMty • Breeding to Feeding • SM • SM Genetics • PeopleGenetics • PeopleGenetics

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Paul x Valentino x Abe✔ Outstanding +1.8 Type✔ +6.22 JUI✔ +200 JPI✔ Available in GenChoice

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Dam of MACHETE: Sunset Canyon Impuls L Maid 4-ET, EX-91%

©2013 CRI B-06346-13 Product of the U.S.A.

Horizons Dezember 2013 von CRI International

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