Volume 17 Issue 2 September 2017 What’s Inside Ron Noble — Simmental Sized Right For Canadian Producers

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Gate Post — Tagged With Pride

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Breed Improvement — The Dance Steps of Genomics

16

Vet’s Advice — Blue Green Algae Poisoning

30

Remembering The Last 50 Years

36

What’s Happening

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Publication Mail Agreement # 40012794

Commercial Country

Simmental Sized Right for Canadian Producers

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Story By Lee Hart

on Noble admits some of his first experiences with Simmental cattle nearly 50 years ago got off to a rocky start. But the northeast Alberta beef producer, now mostly retired, says he recognized opportunity with the newly imported European breed, so he hung in there. He’s certainly glad he did. “If we had been quitters we probably would Ranch Entry have changed breeds,” says Noble who, along with his wife Marilyn, started Double RN Ranch near Lloydminster, Alberta in the late 1960s. The first Simmentals, bought in the early 1970s were big, bony cattle. The 1800-pound cows produced big calves. There were increased cases of calving difficulty. Big bulls produced big steer calves, but carcass yield wasn’t great. It crossed his mind to give up on Simmentals. “Some of those first bulls we bought in the 1970s had their issues,” says Noble. “But at the same time, we saw some real potential with the breed and we kept going. It wasn’t too long before we started to see some more moderate sized cattle, with a less frame and they just worked so well in our cross breeding program.” A FAMILY TREND The long-time commercial beef producer has been a loyal supporter of the Simmental breed for 46 years. In fact it has become a family affair. When Ron’s son Ryan and his wife Chelsa bought the Double RN ranch five years ago, they stayed with Simmental sires in the herd. Daughter Lexi and her husband Todd Balisky farm near Grande Prairie, in the Alberta Peace River region. They use Simmental in a cross breeding program with their cattle. Another daughter, Leann and her husband Daren Priest use Simmental bulls with their commercial cattle near Lloydminster, as well. Across the three families there are a total of 10 grandchildren, and those involved in 4-H are also raising Simmental-cross calves in their beef projects too. Simmentals have worked well for the Noble generations. Pen of steer calves just weaned, weighed and heading to a feed lot in southern Alberta

Ron and Marilyn bought their first Simmental bull to cross with their commercial Angus and Hereford cowherd in 1971. They had tried about six other exotic or continental breeds for a couple years before introducing Simmental bulls to the ranch. “We crossbred them primarily with the Hereford cows,” says Noble. “Some of the other breeds were good — produced good calves — but some like Charolais were more suited to just a terminal cross at that time.” continued on page 8

Sharing the Herd female sale December

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#13, 4101 – 19th St. N.E., Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4

Phone: 403-250-7979 Fax: 403-250-5121

Website: www.simmental.com Email: cansim@simmental.com

CSA Executive

CSA Directors

President Lee McMillen Carievale, SK P: (306) 928-4820 C: (306) 483-8067 mrbulls@gmail.com

Dan Skeels Rimbey, AB P: (403) 843-4756 C: (403) 783-1217 anchordranch@albertahighspeed.net

First Vice-President Garth Rancier Killam, AB P: (780) 385-2425 C: (780) 385-5313 rancierfarms@xplornet.ca Second Vice-President Blair McRae Brandon, MB P: (204) 728-3058 C: (204) 729-5439 marmac@inetlink.ca

Provincial Associations

Francis Gagnon Cheneville, QC P: (819) 428-3502 C: (514) 975-3722 francis_gagnon0407@hotmail.com Roger Deeg Strathmore, AB P: (403) 901-5305 rbdeeg@gmail.com Marlin LeBlanc Estevan, SK P: (306) 634-8031 C: (306) 421-2470 marlinleblanc@sasktel.net Larry Barkley Ingleside, ON P: (613)537-2441 C: (613)360-2443 larrybarkley@sympatico.ca Frank Robblee Crapaud, PEI P: (902)432-0596 frobblee@gmail.com

British Columbia President Lorne Webster Abbotsford, BC P/F: (604) 823-6797 Secretary: Jan Wisse P: (604) 794-3684 Alberta President Byron Johnson Amisk, AB P: (780) 856-2175 wjsimmentals@cciwireless.ca Field Person Dwayne Martin Box 1066, Stettler, AB P: (780) 940-3510 dmartin3510@gmail.com Secretary: Katie Deeg P: (403) 899-2291 info@albertasimmental.com Saskatchewan President Ryan Lundberg Eastend, SK P: (306) 295-7999 ryan_lundberg2@hotmail.com Secretary: Carolyn McCormack P: (306) 697-2945 sasksimmental@yourlink.ca

Manitoba President Andrea Bertholet Cartwright, MB P: (204) 483-0319 adbertholet@hotmail.com Secretary: Laurelly Beswitherick P: (204) 637-2046 Email: b2@inetlink.ca Ontario President Tina Hiddink Bloomfield, ON P: (613) 399-3239 wildoak@xplornet.ca Quebec Président Sylvain Lambert La Presentation, PQ P: (450) 796-5914 Secretaire: Sandra Berthiaume Saint-Garmain, QC P/F (819) 395-4453 sandra.berthiaume@sympatico.ca Maritimes President Don Godfrey Meadow Bank, PEI P: (902) 566-3613 Secretary: Jennie Mutch P: (902) 388-1613 jenniemutch@gmail.com

Editorial Policy - Articles and information in this magazine represent the opinions of the writers and the information that, to the best of our knowledge, was accurate at the time of writing.

CSA Staff General Manager Bruce Holmquist C: (403) 988-8676 bholmquist@simmental.com Office Manager Barb Judd P: (403) 250-7979 bjudd@simmental.com Programs Coordinator Meghan Black P: (506) 324-4825 mblack@simmental.com Processing Department Perry Welygan pwelygan@simmental.com Beth Rankin brankin@simmental.com Receptionist & Member Services Devra Leavitt reception@simmental.com Administrative Assistant Rae-Lee Erickson rerickson@simmental.com YCSA Coordinator Kelsey Manske P: (306) 291-7086 kmanske@simmental.com Simmental Country Sales Representative Ryan Cook P: (780) 818-3452 rcook@simmental.com

Published by:

Users of any information contained in Commercial Country are encouraged to validate that information by independent means.

A Division of:

Phone: 403-250-5255 www.simmentalcountry.com Layouts & Proofs - Requests for special layouts should be in the Commercial Country office by the first of the second month preceding publication. Although every effort will be made to provide proofs on all ads, proofs are guaranteed only if all ad material arrives in the Country office prior to deadline.

Programs Coordinator Meghan Black 506-324-4825 mblack@simmental.com Simmental Country Sales Representative Ryan Cook 780-818-3452 rcook@simmental.com

Mailing Dates - Each issue will be mailed on or about the first of the month. Commercial Country, mailed as second class, assumes no responsibility for actual receipt date. Advertising Content - The Commercial Country assumes no responsibility for the accuracy and truthfulness of submitted advertising copy or electronically supplied pictures and has the right to refuse any ad copy or photos. Advertisers shall indemnify and hold harmless the Country containing pedigrees or statements regarding performance must conform to records kept by the Canadian Simmental Association. Copy deviating from official records may be changed as necessary without advertiser consent. © 2017 Simmental Country (1997) Ltd. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the Canadian Simmental Association.

Published September 2017 For: Canadian Simmental Association #13 , 4101 - 19th Street N.E., Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4 Phone: 403-250-7979 Fax: 403-250-5121 Publication Mail Agreement #40012794

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Box 2330, Warman, Saskatchewan S0K 4S0 Office: 306-934-9696 Fax: 306-934-0744 info@tbarc.com www.todayspublishing.com Editor: Bryan Kostiuk Marketing: Chris Poley Accounting: Treena Ballantyne & Carla Horatchka Circulation: Debbie Thiessen Production: Tiffany Peters - Lead Designer Breanne Anderson, Trystan Hill, Janessa McKay & Samantha Rimke Please Return Undeliverable Copies To: Canadian Simmental Association #13 , 4101 - 19th Street N.E. Calgary, Alberta T2E 7C4 Phone: 403-250-7979 Fax: 403-250-5121

Sires

LRX Blackhawk 16D

Silver Lake Rocky 238C

THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

MRL Regulator 148D

OCT 14 ‘17

OCT 21 ‘17

OCT 26 ‘17

NOV 3 ‘17

NOV 28 ‘17

Brylor Ranch Red Angus Female Sale, Pincher Creek, AB

Canadian Red Round-up Sale Red Deer, AB

Chinook Classic Angus Sale Taber, AB

Bar 4A Cattle Company Complete Female & Herd Sire Dispersal, Innisfail, AB

Camrose Country Classic Camrose, AB

NOV 30 ‘17

DEC 04 ‘17

DEC 06 ‘17

DEC 07 ‘17

DEC 08 ‘17

Ashworth Farm & Ranch Female Production Sale, Oungre, SK

The Source of Elite Simmental Genetics Lloydminster, SK

Double Bar D “Sharing the Herd” Production Sale, Grenfell, SK

Peak Dot Ranch Fall Bull Sale Wood Mountain, SK

McMillen Ranching Herdbuilder ‘17, Carievale, SK

DEC 09 ‘17

DEC 11 ‘17

DEC 12 ‘17

DEC 14 ‘17

DEC 16 ‘17

Hartman Cattle Co. Customer Appreciation Female Sale, Tecumseh, NE

Shades of the Prairies Brandon, MB

Bonchuk Farms Female Production Sale Virden, MB

Gerrard Cattle Co. Complete Charolais Dispersal, Innisfail, AB

Checkers Red, Black, & Fullblood Sale Ponoka, AB

Bouchard Livestock International Brian Bouchard 403.813.7999

Chad Lorenz 403.896.9585

Darnell Fornwald Doug Domolewski Wacey McCaw 403.635.1840 306.471.0093 403.795.8030

OFFICE 403.946.4999

FAX 403.946.4919

EMAIL info@bouchardlivestock.com

www.bouchardlivestock.com

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Fall 2017 Sale Schedule Saturday, September 30 :: Cheneville, QC

Beagle Simmentals Complete Disperal Sale

Saturday, September 30 :: Cheneville, QC

Sunday, December 3 :: Olds, AB

Eastern Harvest Simmental Heifer Sale Friday, October 13 :: Rimbey, AB

Anchor D “Pasture Treasures” Female Sale Sunday, October 15 :: Glencoe, ON

River Point Cattle Co Production Sale Saturday, October 21 :: Shefford, QC

Partners for Progress Sale VII Monday, October 30 :: Mercer, ND

Rust Mountain View “Queens of the Pasture” Sale Wednesday, November 1 :: Sleepy Hollow, NY

Hudson Pines Farm “Forever A Legacy” Dispersal Friday, November 3 :: Lloydminster, SK

Stockade Roundup Fall Fusion All-Breed Sale Sun., Nov 12 – Mon., Nov 13 :: AngusLive.com

Brooking Angus Ranch Open Book Invitational Sunday, November 12 :: New Castle, KY

Tingle Farms “Pave the Way” Fall Sale Vol. II Monday, November 13 :: Louisville, KY

North American Select Simmental Sale Thurs., Nov 16 – Sat., Nov 18 :: LiveAuctions.TV

The Gathering Sale

Tuesday, December 5 :: Brandon, MB

Keystone Konnection 39th Annual Simmental Sale Wednesday, December 6 :: Lloydminster, SK

Western Select 6th Annual Limousin Sale Wednesday, December 6 :: Grenfell, SK

Double Bar D “Sharing the Herd” Production Sale Thursday, December 7 :: Wood Mountain, SK

Peak Dot Ranch Fall Bull and Female Sale Thursday, December 7 :: Regina, SK

Blairs.Ag & Six Mile Ranch “Genetic Focus” 2017 Friday, December 8 :: Carievale, SK

McMillen Ranching Ltd. “Herdbuilder 2017” Sale Saturday, December 9 :: Vermilion, AB

Westgold Farms Bred Heifer Sale Sunday, December 10 :: Olds, AB

The Season Finale Hereford Event Monday, December 11 :: Vermilion, AB

Y Coulee “You Be The Judge” Bull & Heifer Sale Tuesday, December 12 :: Saskatoon, SK

Futures One Online Simmental Sale

B Bar Cattle Co Bull & Female Sale

Wednesday, November 22 :: Regina, SK

Thursday, December 14 :: Maidstone, SK

Agribition Simmental Sale – 50 for 50 Edition Thursday, November 23 :: Regina, SK

Solid Gold Agribition Limousin Sale Friday, November 24 :: Regina, SK

Power and Perfection 7th Annual Angus Sale Tuesday, November 28 :: Camrose, AB

Camrose Country Classic

Wednesday, November 29 :: Moose Jaw, SK

Windy Hill Livestock Bull & Female Sale Thursday, November 30 :: Oungre, SK

Ashworth Farm & Ranch Female Production Sale Friday, December 1 :: Innisfail, AB

SimPower Bred Female Sale

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Saturday, December 2 :: Rimbey, AB

Ferme Gagnon & Guests 20th Production Sale

Big Gully Farm Bull Sale Friday, December 15 :: Olds, AB

Friday Night Lights 6th Annual Simmental Sale Saturday, December 16 :: Olds, AB

The Angus Collection Sale – Volume V Tuesday, December 19 :: Moosomin, SK

Spring Creek “Golden Opportunity IV” Female Sale Wednesday, December 20 :: Moose Jaw, SK

Anderson Cattle Customer Appreciation Bred Sale Thursday, December 21 :: Vermilion, AB

Sunset Simmentals Dispersal Sale Sunday, December 31 :: Saskatoon, SK

New Years Resolution Frozen Genetic Sale: Volume V

Supplying Canada’s most progressive genetics to the beef industry

Fall Semen Sale special ends December 31, 2017. Subaru

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continued from cover

“When we tried Simmental we saw that those crossbred F1 heifers really had some value too,” says Noble. It wasn’t just a crossbreeding program that produced more marketable steer calves, the dual purpose characteristics of the Simmental could improve the cowherd as well. Noble began keeping the Simmental/Hereford F1 heifers as replacements for their herd. As numbers increased, over the years he developed a market selling F1 heifers and even some three-quarter blood heifers to be used as replacements to other beef producers. “We had some customers who bought replacements from us for more than 20 years,” says Noble. As the Nobles were starting out in the early ‘70s, beef producers primarily relied on three British breeds — Hereford, Angus and Shorthorn cattle. Introduction of the continental breeds 400 Young Cows changed and ultimately improved production practices. “Depending on the situation, it was common enough in those days to keep your calves for two years,” says Noble. “You were producing smaller calves. At weaning in the fall they would be 400 to 500 pound calves, so they would be kept over winter, put on grass the next summer and then sold the following fall. So we would have them for two years. Once we started using Simmental in the breeding program, we were weaning and selling calves in the 700 to 800 pound range the over time. We went from having calves around for two grazing seasons and marketing at 15 months to one year, which made a huge difference.”

400 Cows - 6 Years & Older

or a blend of barley and millet that would be later cut for swath grazing. “Cows could stay out on pasture usually until mid to late November,” he says. “We could put 400 cows - 5 years and under on a quarter section and another 400 cows - 6 years and older on a different quarter section, swath grazing and they would stay there until calving for three months.”

In 40 some years of ranching he recalls only one winter when snow conditions interrupted swath grazing. That year the there was a melt and then a freeze that crusted the snow over swaths. Normally cattle can work through up to a foot and a half of snow to find swaths without any problem. Son, Ryan is continuing the winter grazing practice although he is producing corn for winter grazing rather than cereal crops. Noble’s cattle would stay on swath grazing and then go on feed just before calving in February and March. The herd would move to spring pasture in May. With the Simmental influence producing larger cattle, he says pasture quality and quantity needed to be good, but requirements weren’t exceptional. “These cattle needed a bit more grass, but it wasn’t a huge difference,” he says. “If you have a 1,400 pound cow and a 600 pound calf they are going to eat more, but then as I looked at it too, I am only feeding that calf for BUILT THE RANCH AND HERD Starting out, the Nobles carved the Double RN ranch out of one season rather than two.” Noble supplied creep feed to the Alberta landscape. Over the years they cleared roughly calves as well. 3,000 acres of trees to establish mostlypastureland for the “I liked the fact with thedual purpose of Simmental cows, expanding beef herd. When Noble sold the operation to his theirbutter fat content in milk helped improved our weights son and daughter-inand meat production in the herd, as well,” he says. “I really law five years ago, he want to give credit to the Simmental breeders, too. They was running a cowherd believed in the breed, they recognized the type of cattle that of between 800 to 1000 worked on Canadian farms and ranches, they made changes head of females. Ryan and developed cattle that really worked for producers. So and Chelsa had been kudos to them for doing a great job as well as today’s young building their own beef producers involved in the breed.” herd, and today and are restocking their herd with primarily Cow/Calf Pair Simmental herdsires. Noble was a believer in letting the cowherd be the forage harvesters in an extended grazing season long before it became a common practice. He began winter swath grazing in the early 1970s. Cattle spent the spring, summer and early fall on mostly tame grass pasture, before being moved to barley and millet swaths in late fall. “Anytime you can let cows feed themselves without having to haul feed to them you’re saving money,” says Noble. He seeded either straight barley, 8

Replacement Heifer Calves

Pasture 2017

DHARMA 404D

Polled Full Fleckvieh s: Mr. Gibbs ds: Kaptain ss: Barbossa

Friday, October

13, 2017

Anchor D Ranch Rimbey, Alberta • 7 PM View Catalogue and Videos www.anchordranch.com

DEVYN 487D

Polled ll Fu Fleckvieh s: Entourage ds: Viper ss: Precision

DANIEL A 182D

DEVRA 476D

Polled Purebred

Full Fleckvieh

s: Entourage ds: Mr. Evan ss: Barbossa

s: Wolfman ds: Parkhill 38S ss: Admiral

DORIAN 488D

Polled ll Fu Fleckvieh s: Barbossa ds: Maximus ss: Precision

DERICKA 393D

DEBBIE 448D

Polled Purebred

Full Fleckvieh

s: Intuition ds: Van Gogh ss: Barbossa

DELIGHT 252D

Full Fleckvieh

s: Windsurfer

ds: Stride ss: Barbossa

s: Combustible ds: Stubby ss: Cobra

DEB 276D

Polled Purebred

s: Super Duty ds: Wolfman ss: Admiral

BULL SALE February 9, 2018

Anchor D Ranch Simmental Sired Calf Sales Vold, Jones & Vold Auction Co. Dawson Creek, BC Friday, October 6, 9:30 am Ponoka, Alberta Wednesday, October 18, 9:00 am

Dan, Karen, Mackenzie & Garren Skeels Box 1638 - Rimbey, AB T0C 2J0 403: 843-4756 • 403: 783-1217 anchordranch@albertahighspeed.net

www.anchordranch.com

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10

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From the Gate Post

Bruce Holmquist General Manager - Canadian Simmental Association

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“Tagged With Pride�

017 is entering its final quarter, and it has been a year of extreme weather variability across Canada. Drought conditions in many areas of Western Canada have created great stress on pastures and hay crops, and as we enter the grain harvest it is quite evident that reduced yields will unfortunately be the reality for many this year. For some producers however, adequate rain did come and with it yields that will be average to slightly better. The drought conditions have not affected everyone, and some of those producers may be looking to expand their herd rather than market any excess forage; for those fortunate producers 2017 has been great! It has been challenging in much of Eastern Canada as there has been a large area there that has been inundated with excess moisture. In many areas first cut hay was incredibly difficult to make, and took far longer than normal, resulting in reduced quality. Yes, 2017 has been a year of extremes and variation across Canada. We have seen these situations in past years though that never seems to make them easier to deal with. With the variable grazing conditions, there will be a wider range of calf sizes that may lead to some changes in marketing patterns. No doubt some producers will be marketing calves earlier and this will affect feedlot purchasing and November/December prices. Calf weights may be lower for some due to either a shortage of grass, or a greater amount of water in the grass from excess moisture conditions.One thing is certain, Simmental-cross calves will be in demand as they show up at sale barns with more extra pounds in comparison to the straight British bred calves of the same age. A question in the past has been how can one identify and where can they get those good Simmental-cross feeder calves. In 2017 the Canadian Simmental Association (CSA) took a solid step forward in addressing that by providing identification for Simmental influenced calves through its new Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA) approved Simmental RFID tags. These tags have a distinct blue colored back button tag and have been available for purchase since early spring. They are available to CSA members, as well as their customers who have purchased

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a registered Simmental bull and had it transferred to their name in the past two years. Orders are placed through the CCIA by the producer and then shipped from the warehouse direct to them. Here are some important details of ordering your personalized Simmental RFID tags: - All tag orders must be purchased through the Canadian Cattle Identification Agency (CCIA). They cannot be purchased at your local Veterinary Clinic, feed store or farm supply outlet. - There are two ways to order your personalized Simmental RFID tags through CCIA, either online through your CCIA/CLTS account,or by phone (1-877-909-2333). - Once you order has been placed in your account, CDMV who supplies the tag distribution service for CCIA will contact the CSA to ensure the Simmental influence qualifications have been met. - Once CSA has communicated that the order qualifies then CDMV will ship you the tags you have purchased. - This process does take three to five business days so please order a minimum of one week prior to when you want to put them in your calves in order to ensure adequate time for delivery. One of the questions that has been asked is if these tags disqualify individualsfrom certain branded beef programs. The answer is no. The color of the animal may disqualify you, but the color of the tag won’t.What the blue Simmental RFID button provides you is an indication topotential buyersthat the tagged animal is Simmental influenced, and carries all of the genetic potential that heterosis provides. This is not only important on the feedlot side of the industry, but also in the replacement female market where Simmental-cross animals also perform exceptionally well maternally, and are the breed that brings a premium not matter what they are crossed with. For further information on the new CCIA approved Simmental RFID buttons please contact Rae-Lee Erickson at rerickson@simmental.com or (403) 250-7979 and get your order in on your tags and tag them with pride!

of our bulls

Progeny will sell at these sales:

Visit us during the 2018 CSA Convention in Alberta!

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December 19, 2017

1:00 pm at Spring Creek Ranch Near Moosomin, SK

20 bred Simmental cows, born in 2011. 45 Simmental, Black Angus and Half-blood bred heifers. 5 bred commercial cows 25 Sim/Angus cross heifers, bred Black Angus from Black Sand Cattle Co.

MBJ 161X Springcreek Liner 56U X PPSR Armageddon 25J

MBJ 102Y Hart All In W382 X Lazy S Red Sky 120R

MBJ 56Y Rockyhills Token X RCC/TCF Line Drive M181

MBJ 103Y Springcreek Liner 56U X TNT Knock Out R206

MBJ 46Y KOP Crosby 137W X Springcreek Red Tank 57P

MBJ 62Y ACS Red Surge 918W X Demby Mr Universe 695A

Please contact us for catalogues...

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MBJ 69Y Springcreek Liner 56U X CNS Dream On L186

MBJ 163Y Hart All In W382 X RCC/TCF Line Drive M181

MBJ 96Y KOP Crosby 137W X RCC/TCF Line DriveM181

Sons of these bulls will sell on December 28, 2017 on the farm. Join us for our Open House and Sale. Deeg Mr 96A

Super Duty x Red Power

Deeg Phantom 121C

Cobra x Mumbojumbo

Jason & Trisha French and Family Outlaw Gaga Gangsta 9B Mayerthorpe, AB Red Texas x Red Deck (780)305-6354 www.luvnitcattle.com luvnitcattleco@gmail.com 15

Breed Improvement

The Dance Steps of Genomics Part II: Using Genomics in Your Herd

By Jared Decker, PhD., Understanding Genomic Prediction Reprinted with permission from Brangus Publications

G

enomics: We hear this word frequently in the beef industry. But, how do we actually use this technology? More importantly, how do we use this technology to be more profitable?

In “Part I: Understanding Genomic Prediction” we discussed how expected progeny differences (EPDs) and genomic-enhanced expected progeny differences (GE-EPDs) work, the benefit of increased precision with GE-EPDs, and that beef farmers and ranchers can trust this technology. In Part II, we will discuss the steps you can take to start using DNA technology and genomics in your herd in order to be more profitable.

DNA SAMPLES The most basic step in getting started with DNA testing is collecting a DNA sample. There are many different ways to send in a sample for DNA testing, including a semen straw, ear punch, such as the AllFlex Tissue Sampling Unit, tube of blood, or hair and blood cards. One of the nice features of hair or blood cards is that these samples can be stored at room temperature for decades. Thus, the hair or blood cards can be seen as a long-term storage solution for DNA samples. Further, the processing of blood cards can be completely automated at DNA testing facilities. There are various resources available to describe how to take a high-quality DNA sample. For a start, see the “DNA Sample Collection” factsheet at eBEEF.org (http://articles.extension.org/ pages/73198/dna-sample-collection#). As some simple rules of thumb, try to make sure that the DNA card is as clean as possible. Also, be sure not to reuse needles or scalpels between animals; we don’t want the DNA sample to contain DNA from multiple animals. Seedstock producers should consider collecting and storing a DNA sample for every animal in their herd. This can be a resource for future DNA testing. BULLS One of the easiest ways to get started with DNA testing is to use bulls with GE-EPDs. I would encourage all producers to only use natural service sires who have GE-EPDs. The easiest way to accomplish this is to simply buy bulls with GE-EPDs. When buying a bull with GE-EPDs you are substantially reducing your risk of making a bad purchasing decision. The genomic test provides the same amount of information as dozens of calves, with data reported and analyzed, out of the bull. Think about purchasing a bull to use as a clean-up sire on heifers. We want to be quite certain this bull is a calving ease bull. No one wants to be pulling calves the calving season after the new bull is used. Genomic information increases the reliability of EPDs and reduces risk when purchasing bulls.

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But, what if you have already purchased the bull—should you have him DNA tested? I would argue even in this case that you should test the bull. Compared with a single cow, a single bull has a much larger influence on the genetics of a herd. Not only does a bull have dozens of calves each year, but in many situations he is the sire of the next generation of cows. By having a better picture of the bull’s genetic merit, we better understand the genetic merit of the calf crop and how they should be managed and marketed. By better understanding the bull’s genetics, we have a clearer understanding of the replacement female’s genetic profile and can select mates to complement her strengths and improve her weaknesses. Genomic information is only valuable if it is used to improve how we make a decision. Genomic testing allows us to use younger bulls with greater confidence, thus shortening the generation interval, or the average age of parents, and increasing the rate of genetic progress. When testing bulls, we need to use genomic information to decide what semen to purchase, what bull to buy, or how to manage a bull’s calf crop. COWS AND HEIFERS While I argue all herd bulls should be DNA tested, much more thought and consideration should be put into the decision to DNA test females. Consider mature cows. The investment has already been made to purchase or develop this female. Given adequate performance, she will probably stay in the herd the duration of her productive life to see the full return made on the investment in her. There is little economic incentive to DNA test this female, as there is not a decision to be made about whether to keep her. An exception to this suggestion would be if we are considering keeping one of her bull calves as a herd bull. Heifers are a completely different situation. With each heifer we raise, we have to decide if she will be developed to be a replacement female in our herd, sold as a breeding female in someone else’s herd, or sold as a feeder calf. In many commercial herds there is little-to-no information available to make this decision. In seedstock herds we have EPDs and indexes, but one of the main weaknesses of pedigree EPDs is that they are imprecise for young animals. Genomic testing can solve both of these situations as the genomic test provides more information for the selection decision. When DNA testing heifers, a plan must be developed to map how we will achieve a return on the investment in genomics. If the genomic testing does not influence a decision, it will be difficult to see a return on the investment. As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to test twice as many heifers as you plan to keep. This allows the genomic prediction to rerank the heifers compared with traditional selection criteria.

By putting selection pressure on both the bull and cow side of the pedigree, we can make more rapid selection progress. If we are selecting for profit using economic selection indexes, our herds will become more productive and profitable. For commercial producers, genomic testing of the heifer crop can be used to market the steer crop. If the entire heifer crop is genomic tested or if a random sample of the heifers are tested, then the average of the heifer crop equals the average of the steer crop. Thus, by testing the heifers, a commercial producer can know the steers’ propensity to gain and grade in the feedlot and on the rail. This information can then be used as a tool to market the steers. Testing the heifers can happen at different points in time, based on the preferences of the producer and the production system. Some producers favor collecting samples at tagging. Others collect samples at weaning. Still, others wait until they have identified which heifers are AI bred, and only test those heifers carrying an AI pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS GE-EPDs and genomic predictions are an exciting new technology. Producers can be fully confident that this technology works, especially within a breed association evaluation setting. But, as with any technology, producers should be thoughtful about how they will see a return on this investment. Investing

in genomics will result in more rapid genetic progress if the genomic information is used for selection decisions. Investing in genomics may require different market strategies to see a full return on the investment. From only testing herd bulls to testing their entire calf crop, beef producers need to identify what level of adoption of genomic technology makes sense for their herd. As the beef industry continues to adopt this technology, we will see increased genetic improvement. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Jared Decker is an assistant professor in the University of Missouri Division of Animal Science and Beef Genetics Extension Specialist. Decker received his Bachelor of Science in Animal Science, with a minor in Biology, from New Mexico State University. He earned his doctorate at the University of Missouri in genetics, with a minor in Statistics. Decker grew up on a small farm in northwest New Mexico, where his family raises registered cattle. He now owns a small farm in central Missouri to teach his kids the value of hard work. Decker is working to help stakeholders in the beef industry better understand the rapidly changing genetic technologies. His research focuses on understanding the history of cattle breeds and improving the cost and accuracy of genomic tests. He is active on social media and his website A Steak in Genomics.

PO Box 3300, Vermilion, Alberta T9X 2B2 Phone: 780-853-5372 Fax: 780-853-2521

Pre-Sort Internet Calf And Yearling Sales Every Wednesday Throughout The Fall Starting At 9:30 AM. Regular Sales Every Wednesday Butcher Cows And Bulls Follow The Pre-Sort

2017 FALL SPECIAL SALES CALENDAR Oct. 14 Oct. 21 Oct. 28 Nov. 4

All Breeds Presort Internet Calves Angus Influence Presort Internet Calves All Breeds Presort Internet Calves Angus Influence Presort Internet Calves Steak Fry To Follow The Pre-Sort At 12:00 PM

PLEASE CALL AND PRE-BOOK YOUR CATTLE WITH ONE OF OUR SALE

10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM 10:00 AM

Nov. 25 Bred Cow And Heifer Sale (open consignment) Dec. 2 Bred Cow And Heifer Sale (open consignment)

10:00 AM 12:00 PM

Westman Farms Bred Heifer Sale

2:00 PM

Denny Rabby Of Viking Black And Red X Heifers (bred)

Dec. 4 Dec. 9

600 Simmental Influenced Bred Heifers Bred Cow And Heifer Sale (closed) 12:00 M.C. Quantock, Little Willow Creek, Westgold Farms Purebred And Commercial Breds

Dec. 11 Y-Coulee Bred Heifer and Red Angus Bull Sale 600 Red Angus X Simmental Influence Bred Heifers Plus 60 Outstanding Two Year Old Red Angus Bulls

AM

12:00 AM

Dec. 16 Bred Cow And Heifer Sale 12:00 PM Dec. 18 Bred Cow And Heifer Sale 12:00 PM Dec. 21 Sunset Simmentals Complete Cowherd Dispersal 12:00 PM

REPRESENTATIVES AND/OR FIELDMEN: Jim Pulyk 780-853-0626 Roland Goertz 780-656-0506 Les Trach 780-654-0939 Harvey Trach 780-645-5172 Andy Jubinville 780-645-9593 Marc Jubinville 780-826-0992 Ted Issac 306-768-7997 Pat Lawrence 780-812-9123 Ryan Noble 306-839-7949 Bob Foxwell 780-842-0410 Dave Crittal 306-344-2188 Allen Stefiuk 780-632-8701 Office: 780-632-8701 FOR MORE INFORMATION GO TO

www.nclverm.com

Agents of Direct Livestock Marketing Systems Feeder and Breeding Livestock Financing Available Through Cattlemen’s Financial Crop

17

18

RPCC Blk Dixie 245D Mr Hoc Broker X Slugger

These full sisters sell!

Bred to Hook’s Broadway

Consignors Alliance Simmental Farms - Bryan Twiss/Melanie Gollinger/Derek O’Neill/John

RPCC red Eye Lash 217E

Reekie - Foley Simmentals - Johnathan McNeil - Pinch Hill Cattle Co. - Ridgeview Cattle Co. - Stewart Simmentals - Terrace Hill Farm - Xcel Livestock

Eva 204E

Harkers Icon X Slugger

Edgy ET206E

W/C Wide Track X Joker

Emmylou Harris 214E

Mr Hoc Broker X Slugger

Mr Hoc Broker X red label

RIVER POINT Cattle Co.

Reed, Jane, Shelby + Josie Crawford REED 519.857.7333 JANE 519.317.5263 HOME 519.287.5286 - RIVERPOINT@HOTMAIL.COM RIVERPOINTCATTLECOMPANY.COm

Elsa 234E

FBF1 Combustible X Sure Bet

Emily 239E

Mr Hoc Broker X Bravado

Daphne 211D

Xcel Ebonys Influence X Shear Force Bred to W/C Loaded Up

Sales management:

Request a catalogue today! 19

Nov 4, 12:30p

NELSON HIRSCHE P U R E B R E D S Del Bonita, Alberta

1st Annual Production Sale Nov 4th, 2017, 12:30pm Open House & Cattle Viewing Fri Nov 3rd. Dinner Served.

Featuring 200+ Home Raised Bred Heifers Angus & Angus/Simmental Heifers AI’d to low birthweight Hereford and Angus Bulls

Selling 160 Bulls

80 Herefords, 50 Angus, 20 Simmental, 10 Charolais Coming 2 yr olds & 2017 Bull Calves

Selling 250 Females

2 Hereford Donor Cows, 20 Hereford Embryos, 25 Show Heifer Calves, 20 Hereford Bred females, 200 Commercial Black Bred Heifers All Long Yearling Bulls sired by CROSSROAD BLACK IDOL 733A 2017 Bull Calves sired by STUBBY LFE 322U

We are currently breeding 5,000 females including: • 350 Purebred Angus • 500 Purebred Herefords • 80 Purebred Charolais Cows Our new home is near Del Bonita, Alberta on 26,000 acres formerly known as Remington Ranch. Nelson Family Ranches was established in 1904. Contact us to get on our mailing list P.O. Box 20, Del Bonita, Alberta T0K 0S0 20

www.NelsonHirschePurebreds.com

Ranch (403) 758-6105 Grant Hirsche (403) 652-8254 Jimmy Nelson (403) 635-7075

Maxwell SiMMentalS Your source for Traditional Fleckvieh Influenced, and Red and Black Simmental Bulls

Proudly presenting our Current & Future Herdsires

NUG ROYAL RED

A.I. SIRE

MRL RED WHISKEY

X-T THE FORCE 2A

A.I. SIRE

WFL 7B

SVS CAPTAIN MORGAN

FBL RATTLER 23C

AVALANCHE 52X

IPU CLASSIC 1X

MRL DISCOVERY

PROGENY AND SERVICES TO THESE INDUSTRY LEADING A. I. SIRES ~ Riddler ~ Vegas ~ Total Value ~ Blue Print ~ Justified ~ Radium ~ Westcott ~ Imax ~ Western Force ~

Consigning to:

Camrose Country Classic Female Sale NOV.28

NUG

Maxwell Simmentals

Box 188, Viking Alberta T0B 4N0

Glen Maxwell: 780.385.5552 Kevin Maxwell: 780.385.5625

Watch for sons of these industry leading herdbulls at:

Herd Master Bull Sale FEB.28

NUG

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REVISED ADVERTISING DEADLINES

Simmental Country Deadlines FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Meghan Black 506.324.4825 mblack@simmental.com

Ryan Cook 780.818.3452 rcook@simmental.com

February “Herd Sire” Issue March/April/May “Spring” Issue Queens of the Pasture Issue October/November Issue December “Winter” Issue

Commercial Country Deadlines

January 1 January Issue April 1 September Issue July 1 September 15 October 15

December 1 August 1

SUBSCRIPTION FORM

Simmental Country is the official publication of the Canadian Simmental Association. We endeavor to bring you up-to-date information and articles that are of interest to both the Purebred and Commercial Cattlemen.

□ $40.00 - per year □ $75.00 – 2 years

U.S. 1ST Class Mailing – Cheque or Visa/MC only (US Funds)

□ $65.00 per year

FOREIGN 1ST Class Mailing – Visa/MC Only (Canadian Funds)

□ $130.00 per year

PLEASE CHECK ONE OF THE ABOVE To purchase your subscription, please forward payment to #13 - 4101 - 19th St. NE Calgary, Alberta Canada T2E 7C4 Fax/email your Visa/MC number and expiry date. Cheques payable to the Canadian Simmental Association

Farm Name:

CSA#

Name: Address: City:

Province/State:

Country:

Postal Code/Zip:

Card #: Expiry:

22

Applicable taxes for Canadian Subscribers   AB, SK, MB & PQ ‐ add $2.00 / $3.75 (5%) to fees for GST   BC ‐ add $4.80 / $9.00 (12%) to fees for HST  ON, NB & NFLD – add $5.20 / $9.75 (13%) to fees for HST  NS – add $6.00/ $11.25 (15%) to fees for HST 

CANADA 2ND Class Mailing – Cheque or Visa/MC only

□ Cheque Signature:

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December 2, 2017

13th Annual Bull & Female Production Sale Saturday, 4:00 pm

at Wolfe Farms, Valleyview, AB

Offering:

55 Fleckvieh Simmental 18 month old bulls

20 registered bred heifers

Thank you

to the last year’s buyers (*multiple purchases)

Wolfe Coolidge FF 769C sold to South Peace Colony

WOLFE Copenhagen 709C sold to Alix Farming Co. Ltd.

Alix Farming Co. Ltd. * Birkenhagen Farms Blazin J Inc. * Matthew Bogner * Loren Brad * Chamberland Farms Reuben Dyck Henry S. Fehr Peter Fehr * HBCR Valley Farming Co. Ltd. * Hollingworth Farms Ltd. * Joseph & Edith Jakubow Jassman Farms * Rocky & Lynda Johnson * Klassen Ranching * Brad McLaughlin

Garth Meehan John Neufeld Peace View Colony * Jim Peel Ryan Quist * Rollingview Ranch Simmentals Allan Ratzlaff Small Time Farms * South Peace Colony * Bill Smith * Don Smith * Turtle Mountain Reds Travis Trask * Valleyview Colony Willcooke Simmentals * George Wiebe

All bulls can stay on the farm through the winter and be fed free of charge. For bull purchases, at least 50% down is required sale day and the remainder can be paid in the spring when the bulls are delivered.

For catalogs or further information contact:

Wolfe Farms Tony Wolfe

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Box 2074, Valleyview, AB T0H 3N0 780-524-3939 cell: 780-524-9322 email: wolfefarms8@gmail.com website: www.wolfefarms.ca

Directions to Farm From Valleyview go S on Hwy 43 to Twp 681 (Warren Rd), W to Rge Rd 232, S to Twp 674 and W to farm. From Little Smoky go N on Hwy 43 to Twp 673A (Anderson Rd), W to Rge Rd 225, N to Twp 674, and W to farm.

Offering 50 YOUNG BRED COWS Bred to War Paint, Discovery, Capone

10 BRED HEIFERS

Bred to BHL Beef Maker 18D – Shear Force/Bravado

15 YEARLING BULLS

Sired by NUG Denver (Captain Morgan), Oakview Bold Venture (Red Mountain), NUG Royal Red, KWA Big Time

15 OPEN REPLACEMENT HEIFERS

Sired by NUG Denver (Captain Morgan), Oakview Bold Venture (Red Mountain), NUG Royal Red, KWA Big Time

SEMEN

War Paint, Capone, Subaru, Captain Black, Combustible & Big Time

EMBRYOS

Sired by Red Label & Riddler

SEMEN TANK & ELECTRONIC SCALE SALES MANAGEMENT WWW.BOHRSON.COM

CHAD, MICHELLE BEAGLE & FAMILY

CHAD 403.704.4607 CHADBEAGLE12@GMAIL.COM 25

26

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28

Points Table

Class A Show (100+ head)

Class B Show (80-99 head)

Class C Show (60-79 head)

Class D Show (40-59 head)

Class E Show (20-39 head)

Placing

Points

Points

Points

Points

Points

1

15

14

13

12

10

2

14

13

12

11

9

3

13

12

11

10

8

4

12

11

10

9

7

5

11

10

9

8

6

6

10

9

8

7

5

7

9

8

7

6

4

8

8

7

6

5

3

9

7

6

5

4

2

10

6

5

4

3

1

Divison Champion

14

12

10

8

6

Reserve Division Champion

13

11

9

7

5

Grand Champion

14

12

10

8

6

Reserve Grand Champion

13

11

9

7

5

29

H

aving practiced veterinary medicine in Western Canada for the last 30 years, I have yet to diagnose a known case of algae poisoning. In Eastern Canada, with the growing human and livestock population surrounding water bodies, there have been increasing problems with this. It may only be a matter of time before algae poisoning increases in the West. With recent flooding and excessive moisture, phosphorus and nitrogen increases in dugouts and lakes have increased algal blooms. There are some permanent and temporary preventative measures we can do to decrease the incidence. Generally, if seen it is very acute causing sudden death in an outbreak form where several head are involved. Blue–green algae, also known as pond scum will cause the water to look like blue-green soup in a dense bloom, with solid looking chunks in it. Fresh blooms smell like grass clippings, whereas old blooms smell like rotting garbage. Winds can concentrate the blooms on one side of a water body, but the toxins produced by the algae can dissipate within several days in the water making diagnosis difficult. The death of the algae by cold weather, winds or rainfall is what releases the toxins into the water. We get most algal blooms in late summer and early fall. Clinical signs most commonly involve several animals with sudden death being the common denominator. If seen alive, nervous symptoms predominate since the toxin affects nerve transmission. Death is caused from respiratory failure. If the animal survives liver damage and photosensitization (sunburn) predominate. Most often clinical signs would start within fifteen minutes of consuming water so affected animals are often found down or dead not far from the water source. What causes these blooms are ever increasing amounts of nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen derived from animal and human wastes. So manure and urine from animals or human septic systems as well as crop or lawn sprays lead to these increasing nutrients in our water level. Wildlife are not immune to this poisoning, and are often the sentinel animals. Any time dead deer or moose are seen close to a water supply, suspicions should be raised. Even human skin contact with the affected algae or water will lead to rashes, eye irritation and abdominal cramps. In some jurisdictions mandatory vegetation buffer strips around lakes minimizes runoff and sediment which lead to the algal blooms and potential poisonings by wildlife, domestic livestock, birds or humans. The toxin can even be passed up the food chain when predatory birds eat small birds poisoned by the algae, By minimizing the manure, urine and sprays getting into our water sources should keep these algae in check. The government is controlling the amounts of phosphorus in washing detergents another identified contaminant of our water supply. The wash water goes down the sewer and eventually ends up in our water supply. Several things are now commonly done at the farm level and greatly minimize this contamination. Spreading manure at

30

the right times, and not on top of snow minimizes the likelihood of contamination at spring runoff. Not feeding cattle close to waterways or drainage areas also minimizes this risk. These same practices help minimize the likelihood of contamination with E.coli O157:H7 another potentially deadly human bacteria if consumed in the water supply. The controlled exposure of cattle to open water by using solar powered pumps, nose pumps, wells or a myriad of other method to supply water does two things. It decreases contamination from defecation in the water and the cattle along with wildlife have access to cleaner healthier water. It has been proven they also have better performance when drinking the cleaner water a win- win scenario. Movement of animals in the water or boats in shallow lakes stirs up the bottom bringing up the phosphorus and nitrogen and aggravating the problem. If you can’t completely fence off the water areas the second best alternative is to have fresh water in a tank. Animals will choose the easiest route. The water intakes for these systems are placed way below the water surface away from the algal toxins thus making the water much safer to drink. If you do get algal blooms where any livestock have access they can be controlled by using copper sulfate in the water. Amounts of as little as Ÿ-1/2 pound of copper sulfate per 100,000 gallons will do the trick. The toxins may dissipate in as little as five days but the recommended time frame is three weeks after treatment before access is allowed. A simple way to calculate the copper sulfate necessary is to pace off the dugout length and width. If you know or can estimate the average depth figure out the total cubic feet. One cubic foot is 6.24 gallons so multiplying the total cubic feet by the 6.24 will give you how many gallons you are dealing with. Most large sized dugouts only need one or two pounds so is a very inexpensive way to get the job done. I have the producers dissolve the copper sulfate in a stock solution so it can be spread around and equally distributed. By monitoring and protecting your water supply, cattle diseases such as algae poisoning, coccidiosis or human diseases such as e coli will be greatly reduced. We have heard in the news several cases of water deprivation so checking the water supply will identify situations such as lines plugging, solar pumps failing or a myriad of problems where the end result is no water. You may need wireless alarms feeding into your cell phone or having the ability to check water bowls or tanks with a drone. Have water tests done periodically especially on new water sources as high levels of things like total dissolved solids or sulfates can lead to problems all on their own. Your cattle purebred and commercial will perform better and environmentally riparian areas are preserved with wildlife being better off when remote watering devices are employed. Visually and by the smell most times you should be able to spot algal blooms. Keeping check will make us all better stewards of the land for future generations and have our cattle perform better. Quality and easily accessible water supply leads to healthy cattle.

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CIRCLE 3 GENETICS - SEMEN SALE

We have had our Dispersal Sale and are now dispersing our Semen inventory stored at Alta Genetics and Eastgen. Call early, don’t be disappointed. Call the office for special pricing. 519-986-1330 or bar5admin@xplornet.com SIRE

SIRE

BAR 5 SA BEAUMONT 413N

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA METEXAS 804M

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA BENZ 415L

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA OPTIMAL 447L

Full Blood

BAR 5 BERNHEIM 405H

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA MR PFALZER 802M

Full Blood

BAR 5 MR BEST 275F

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA PFIDELITY 424R

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA BIGOLO 402A

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA PIONA 04 817N

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA BURNER 825R

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA PIONEER 439L

Full Blood

BAR 5 MR EISENHERZ 405K

Full Blood

BAR 5 POL BLAZE 384J

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA ELTORRO 814S

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA MR POWERFUL 422M

Full Blood

BAR 5 PSA ESSENTIAL 413U

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA PRAFEKT 450P

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA EVAN 437L

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA STIMULATION 415P

Full Blood

BAR 5 PSA GLOBE 401Y

Full Blood

BAR 5 VUURSLAG 420K

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA GLOVER 854T

Full Blood

BHR SA STREIK M877E

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA GONG 459P

Full Blood

BHR HAXOLD 690P

Full Blood

BAR 5 HARLEM DA ZURITA

Full Blood

CET EXTRA BEST 87K

Full Blood

BAR 5 FF HARMON 1202Y

Full Blood

CHALFORD XENON

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA HARRACH 801P

Full Blood

DORA LEE ECLIPSE FF9R

Full Blood

BAR 5 FF HEXAGON 412Y

Full Blood

DS RED LITE 29J

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA HOLD 407N

Full Blood

GIBBONS EXPERTISE

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA HOUDINI 402R

Full Blood

HRC FIRE POWER 42N

Purebred

BAR 5 SA HULKSTER 855R

Full Blood

JNR GRAVITY

Full Blood

BAR 5 IBBAROO 405J

Full Blood

PRIME MAKER M889

Purebred

BAR 5 SA KAPTAIN 427R

Full Blood

RICHMOND MR THUNDER 13D

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA KERL 808L

Full Blood

RPF POLLED RIGHT TIME

Full Blood

BAR 5 SA KERMET 821N

Full Blood

STONEY SIDEKICK 13N

Purebred

BAR 5 LANDMARK 604Z

Full Blood

BAR 5 F-1 OPTIMIZER 461P

Percentage

BAR 5 PFF LUKE 1215X

Full Blood

EMBRYO SALE

$400.00 each, delivery will be free if you purchase 6 or more embryos. QUANTITY

DAM

REGISTRATION #

H/P

SIRE

REGISTRATION #

3

DDD Alyka 327Y

764659

P

Bar 5 PSA Essential 413U

695610

H/P P

4

Bar 5 SA Latisha 436N

603776

H

Bar 5 PSA Evolution 418S

657323

P

1

Bar 5 SA Proud 426R

638046

H

Bar 5 SA Eltorro 814S

2470683

P

8

Sanmar SA Kalahari 8R

647237

H

Bar 5 SA Eltorro 814S

2470683

P

7

Bar 5 PSA Toshi 305X

743868

P

Bar 5 PSA Essential 413U

695610

P

1

Sanmar Polled Rocky 25R

647236

P

Gibbons Expertise

704975

P

6

Bar 5 SA Ms Lara 808N

622040

H

Gibbons Expertise

704975

P

Check out our website

www.bar5.com for more information on the bulls

35

50th Anniversary

Panel Questions

In means of celebrating the last 50 years of Simmental in Canada, Simmental Country is asking those that have been involved from the beginning of the breed for their input on the past, present and future of Simmental. Individuals involved in this panel questionnaire come from different backgrounds from various parts of the country. This feature article will appear in the remaining Simmental Country magazines this year.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1 Explain your background and involvement within the Simmental breed – past and present. WILL IRVINE: My background goes back to me being a cattle buyer, then cattle marketer for the Calgary Stockyards until I became the Commercial Field Representative for the Canadian Simmental Association. Presently I am involved with the Calgary Stockyards as a listing agent for TEAM and the Calgary Stockyards in Strathmore.

BRAD WELTER: I have been involved in the cattle feeding industry for the past 25 years and have been involved in feeding many Simmental and Simmental cross cattle over that time.

DANNY DAINES: The Innisfail Auction Market which has been established in 1955, has been involved in marketing both purebred and commercial Simmental cattle for many decades.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2

What drew you to the Simmental breed initially? What is it about the breed that has kept you involved in one way or another?

WILL IRVINE: I have always believed that the Simmental cow was the most productive, and raised the largest calves. My desire to see thicker calves and calves off Simmental cows put on feed earlier. I always believed that the Simmental crossbred cow was by far the most productive, and raised the biggest calves no matter what bull she was bred to. BRAD WELTER: In the early years, Simmental brought some size and meat yield to the crossbred calves going to feed in feedlots. Over time the breed has evolved to bring a very good terminal

36

cross steer that will feed to optimum weights. The Simmental cross steers will consistently show very good feed conversion rates and have a very good balance of quality grade and carcass yield. DANNY DAINES: The Simmental breed caught our eye because of the size of the animal, the eye appeal and what they had to offer the cow/calf producer in Canada. Marketing commercial Simmental steers and heifers on a regular basis has kept us involved with the Simmental breed as well as hosting purebred Simmental sales at the Innisfail Auction Market.

3 What are some significant changes that you have seen with Simmentals over the last 50 years? WILL IRVINE: I firmly believe that the Simmental breed has gone to the much thicker better grading type of animal. They’ve done this through crossbreeding with both Hereford and Angus. I also know that feedlots have become more conscious about pushing the Simmental ahead by feeding them a stronger ration therefore, getting them ready for the earlier market.

BRAD WELTER: Some of the changes that I have noticed in the last decade or more is the improved hair coat which is very important when finishing cattle in Saskatchewan winters as well as a great improvement in the depth of the cattle and the improved feeding capacity that goes with that. DANNY DAINES: Some significant changes we have seen with the Simmental breed are more desirable coat patterns (blacks or reds for example), the size and the structure of the Simmental breed has adapted to suit the needs of the Canadian beef sector.

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4 What are some of the main highlights or accomplishments you’ve witnessed over the years with Simmental? WILL IRVINE: Some of the main highlights the Simmental breeders have accomplished over the last 50 years has been their ability to show that Simmental cattle will not only perform in the feedlot, but will also meet the grading standards today. When the first Simmentals came into Canada, it was more about lean beef than it is today. It’s all about marbling and the conversion rate cattle are performing well in the feedlots.

BRAD WELTER: The accomplishments that stick out for me are the move to consistent solid color cattle (black or red) as well as the use of and promotion of polled genetics. DANNY DAINES: Some of the main highlights I have witnessed with the Simmental breed are: most commercial cow/calf operations have some Simmental influence in their herd, and they cross very well with British cattle (for example Angus, Hereford and Shorthorn).

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5 Where do you see the breed sitting today within the beef industry? WILL IRVINE: I believe that the Simmental cattle can fit in the cow herds in most operations due to the cross breeding that has taken place and also being able to add size to the finished animals along with better grading steers. BRAD WELTER: I see Simmental as playing a vital role in the industry as a much needed terminal sire on British and

crossbred beef herds, producing the kind of calves that feedlots are after. DANNY DAINES: I see the Simmental breed as a front runner by what they offer Canada by achieving great accomplishments for the beef industry.

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6 Suggestions you may have for the Simmental breed or young individual looking to start within the breed? WILL IRVINE: My suggestion for young individual Simmental breeders or all breeders of any age, is to never forget that performance in the feedlot and proper grading is what will continue to put their breed out front. I would also like to congratulate all the Simmental breeders in Canada for the job they have done in creating an animal that will both feed finish and grade efficiently. BRAD WELTER: In the past we have seen the Simmental breed change and evolve to deliver the kind of genetics that industry was looking for, hopefully the willingness will continue to adapt or change to deliver the attributes that the industry and end users of beef will come to expect or demand.

DANNY DAINES: The Simmental breed has been extremely influential in the commercial industry and needs to continue to strive and set the bar for top marketability of cattle. For a young individual looking to start within the Simmental breed, great opportunities await you! This breed is well established in marketing bulls to the commercial cattleman, offer strong maternal traits and a desired product when marketing calves (red blaze faced and black blazed faced calves for example).

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CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF

SIMMENTAL IN CANADA!

It’s hard to believe that it’s been 50 years since the first Simmental bull, Parisien, was imported to Canada. This was an event that created history and changed the Canadian Beef Industry. Since then the Simmental Breed has been a tremendous success story as it has progressed into becoming one of the most influential beef cattle breeds in North America. ALBERTA

FARMFAIR INTERNATIONAL - EDMONTON, AB.................................................................. NOVEMBER 8-12, 2017

ONTARIO

THE ROYAL AGRICULTURAL WINTER FAIR - TORONTO, ON................................................ NOVEMBER 3-12, 2017

SASKATCHEWAN

CANADIAN WESTERN AGRIBITION & NATIONAL SIMMENTAL SHOW - REGINA, SK........... NOVEMBER 20-25, 2017 Simmental breeders from across Canada are preparing to celebrate our 50th Anniversary events. Be sure to mark your calendar and plan to join the excitement! More details to come in the upcoming months. For any questions please contact your Provincial Simmental Association or Rae-Lee Erickson at the Canadian Simmental Association office rerickson@simmental.com

NEW BRUNSWICK

NEW BRUNSWICK BEEF EXPO - SUSSEX, NB.................................................................. SEPTEMBER 23-24, 2017

BRITISH COLUMBIA

ARMSTRONG FAIR - ARMSTRONG, BC............................................................... AUGUST 30 - SEPTEMBER 3, 2017

NOVA SCOTIA

HERITAGE BEEF CLASSIC- WINDSOR, NS........................................................................ SEPTEMBER 23-24, 2017

QUEBEC

EXPO BOEUF - VICTORIAVILLE, QC......................................................................................... OCTOBER 6-8, 2017

MANITOBA

MANITOBA AG-EX - BRANDON, MB.................................................................................... OCTOBER 25-28, 2017

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2016 Son

2017 Daughter

{ MFR Dreamboat 3B }

2016 Son

S: TESS BLACK 96X DS: MFR DYNAMO 14U CSA # PG1128737 Owned with Terry & Loretta Young, Earl Grey, SK

McCormack Family Ranch Scott & Carolyn McCormack & Family Grenfell, SK (306) 697-2945 www.mccormackfamilyranch.com

Annual On Farm Bull Sale - March 27, 2018 40

Red & Black Simmental & Maine-Anjou

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From the Gate Post

Par Bruce Holmquist Directeur général - Association Simmental du Canada

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“Fièrement étiquetés”

n est arrivé au dernier trimestre de l’année 2017, laquelle nous a laissé des conditions météorologiques très variables à travers le Canada. Plusieurs régions de l’Ouest Canadien ont connu une sécheresse, causant ainsi un immense stress aux pâturages et aux prairies de foin.Et, alors qu’on amorce la période de récolte des céréales, on doit malheureusement constater que plusieurs subiront des baisses de rendement cette année. Par contre, chez certains autres producteurs, les précipitations reçues ont été adéquates et ceux-là peuvent même espérer des rendements moyens ou légèrement supérieurs. Les conditions sèches n’ont pas eu le même effet pour tout le monde, et ceux n’ayant pas été affecté pourraient considérer une augmentation de leur cheptel au lieu de vendre leurs surplus de fourrages; l’année 2017 est donc excellente pour ces producteurs plus chanceux ! Les défis ont été considérables dans la majeure partie de l’Est Canadien, alors qu’une zone importante a été littéralement inondée par une humidité excessive. Dans plusieurs secteurs, la première coupe de foin s’est faite très difficilement, et s’est allongée plus que la normale, conduisant ainsi à une réduction de qualité. En effet, l’année 2017 aura été une année de conditions très variables à travers le pays. On a déjà connu de telles situations par le passé, toutefois il semble que ce soit toujours difficile de s’y adapter. En lien avec les conditions variables de paissance, on devrait observer une plus grande variation de poids des veaux, laquelle pourrait conduire à des ajustements au niveau de leur mise en marché. Certains producteurs vont sans doute vendre leurs veaux plus tôt, et cela influencera les achats par les parcs d’engraissement, ainsi que les prix des mois de novembre et décembre.Les poids des veaux pourraient être plus faibles en raison soit d’un manque d’herbe ou encore d’une humidité excessive dans l’herbe,soit dans les régions ayant connu un excès de pluie. Une chose est sûre, les veaux croisées Simmental vont être en demande, tandis qu’ils commencent à arriver dans les encans, étant plus lourds que les autres veaux du même âge et provenant de races britanniques. On s’est interrogé par le passé à savoir comment on peut identifier et où on peut obtenir ces bons veaux d’embouche croisés Simmental. En 2017, l’Association Simmental du Canada (ASC) a effectué un pas en avant avec l’introduction de ses étiquettes RFID Simmental, lesquelles sont approuvées par l’Agence Canadienne d’identification du bétail (ACIB). Ces nouvelles étiquettes, disponibles depuis le printemps dernier, possèdent un bouton arrière distinctif de couleur bleue. Elles sont disponibles pour les membres de l’ASC, de

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même qu’à leurs clients ayant acheté au cours des deux dernières années un taureau Simmental dûment transféré à leur nom.Les producteurs peuvent les commander directement auprès de l’ACIB et les étiquettes leur sont expédiées directement à partir de l’entrepôt. Voici quelques consignes importantes pour commander vos étiquettes RFID Simmental personnalisées: - Toutes les commandes d’étiquettes doivent être achetées par l’intermédiaire de l’Agence Canadienne d’identification du bétail (ACIB). Elles ne peuvent pas être achetées à votre clinique vétérinaire, votre fournisseur d’aliments ou le comptoir d’équipements. - Il y a deux façons de commander vos étiquettes RFID Simmental personnalisées par l’ACIB, c’est-à-dire soit en ligne via votre compteclient de l’ACIB, ou encore par téléphone (1-877-909-2333). - Une fois que la commande aura été faite dans votre compte, le CDMV qui effectue la distribution des étiquettes pour le compte de l’ACIB communiquera avec l’ACIB afin de s’assurer que les exigences de qualification soient remplies pour des sujets d’influence Simmental. - Lorsque l’ASC aura confirmé la qualification de la commande au CDMV, ce dernier vous expédiera les étiquettes achetées. - Cette procédure requiert de trois à cinq jours ouvrables avant d’être complétée, nous vous recommandons alors de commander au moins une semaine avant la date prévue de pose des étiquettes sur les veaux, afin de vous assurer de les avoir en temps. On nous a posé la question à savoir si ces étiquettes apporte une disqualification de certains animaux de certains programmes de boeuf de marque. La réponse est: non. La couleur de l’animal peut conduire à sa disqualification, mais pas la couleur de l’étiquette. Le bouton bleu de l’étiquette RFID Simmental fait en sorte que les acheteurs potentiels sauront que les animaux ainsi étiquetés sont d’influence Simmental, et qu’ils possèdent le potentiel génétique apporté via l’hétérose. Cela n’est pas seulement important au niveau du secteur de l’engraissement des bovins, mais également au niveau du marché des femelles de remplacement, là où les bovins croisés Simmental obtiennent des performances maternelles exceptionnelles, et où la race contribue à l’obtention d’une prime, peu importe sur quels sujets on les utilise. Veuillez communiquer avec Rae-Lee Erickson au: rerickson@ simmental.com ou (403) 250-7979, afin d’obtenir plus d’informations au sujet des boutons d’étiquettes RFID Simmental approuvées par l’ACIB, obtenez votre commande et posez les étiquettes avec fierté!

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201 7 YCSA National Classic

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November 9, 2017

JOIN US AT FARMFAIR FOR THE

Simmental Show

Host Hotel: Edmonton Inn & Conference Center 780-454-5454

Get Your Breeder’s Select Membership For A Chance To Win

$10,000

sale credit

Register by October 1, 2017 to be entered into a special Early Bird Draw.Check out our website for membership form or contact Tracy Kimmel 780-875-2089 or asabreedersselect@outlook.com

Watch for consignments from these ASA Breeders Select contributors, get your membership in to add your farm to the growing list of contributors.

Czech Mate Simmentals Deeg Simmentals Hannah Simmentals High Country Cattle Services Lewis Farms Mader Ranches Pearson Livestock

Rancier Farms Red Top Livestock SIBL Simmentals Virginia Ranch Inc Willow Creek Simmentals WJ Simmentals Ultra Livestock

Thank you to our sponsors to date:

Canadian Simmental Association Simmental Country Canadian Cattleman Magazine Alta Genetics

Bow Valley Genetics Semex Bohrson Marketing and more to be announced.

Schedule Of Events Thursday November 9, 2017

Tracy Kimmel 780-875-2089 asabreedersselect@outlook.com www.albertasimmental.com

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9:00 am: Percentage Show (new this year is Cow/Calf Class must be registered ½ or greater) 10:00 am: ASA Simmental Show Drawing of Breeders Select, Scholarship awards and Heifer Draw to take place during the show. After the show join us in the barns for a “50th Anniversary Party”

Saskatchewan Simmental Association

0 0 2017 Bull 0 2 $ Promo Winner Congratulations to Dwight Jorgensen of Redvers, SK winner of the 2017 Bull Promo. Jorgensen purchased a bull from Diamond M Ranch, Jordan & Amber Mantei and will recieve a $2000 Sale Credit, sponsored by the Sask. Simmental Association, to be used to purchase a bull or female at public auction or by private treaty from a current SSA member.

President: Ryan Lundberg (306) 295-7999 Secretary: Carolyn McCormack Box 591 Grenfell, SK S0G 2B0 (306) 697-2945 fax (306) 697-2942 email: sasksimmental@yourlink.ca

Fall Show & Sales Simmental Influenced Cattle will be in attendnce at the following Fall Shows & Sales! Check w ith you Edam Fall Fair Mart fo r local Auctio October 27-28 r Simm n Pre-sor ental contact John Grant 306-441-7984 t sales near yo Lloydminster Stockade Roundup u! Nov. 1 - 4 Yorkton Harvest Show Down Nov. 1 - 4 Canadian Western Agribition Nov. 22 - National Simmental Show 9 AM Simmental Sweepstakes 5 PM National Simmental Sale 7 PM Nov. 23 - Commercial Show 10 AM Bull Pen Alley People’s Choice 5 PM Nov. 24 - Bull Pen Alley 10 AM Commercial Sale 12 PM

Sweepstake$ SSA Simmental

Nov. 22, 2017 Agribition, 5 pm

$30,000

Over in prize money and prizes! :: Silver Memberships only $100! For a chance to win... - $10, 000 in Sale Credits to Agribition Sale - Secondary prizes drawn throughout the event! - silver memberships can be purchased in advance sasksimmental@yourlink.ca or at the show ::

www.sasksimmental.com 47

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MSA Board of Directors

New Brunswick Beef Expo - Sussex, NB Heritage Beef Classic - Windsor, NS

50th Anniversary Celebrations

September 22-24, 2017 Maritime YCSA Classic Windsor, NS October 21, 2017 Salt Water Simmental Sale Nappan, NS

Dates to Remember

  

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President: Don Godfrey, PE - Vice President: Trevor Pauley, NB Secretary: Jennie Mutch, PE - Treasurer: Bill MacLeod, NB Directors: Laura Parsons, NS - Kerwin Delong, NS Lacey Fisher, NS - Geraline VanAgten, NB - Wade Loane, PE Honorary Directors: Ralph Taylor, NS - James MacKenzie, NS

Amélioration de la race

Les pas de danse de la génomique Partie II: L’emploi de la génomique dans votre troupeau Par Dr Jared Decker, PhD, Service de l’Extension, Université du Missouri Reprinted with permission from Brangus Publications

L

a génomique : On entend souvent parler de ce mot en production bovine. Toutefois, comment utilise-t-on présentement cette technologie? Et, d’une manière plus importante, comment emploi-t-on cette technologie afin d’obtenir une meilleure rentabilité? Dans la “Partie I: Comprendre les prédictions génomiques”, nous avons expliqué comment on doit interpréter les Écarts Prévus chez la Descendance (EPD) et les Écarts Prévus chez la Descendance améliorés par la génomique (EPD-GE), quels sont les avantages d’utiliser les EPD-GE en raison de leur précision accrue et pourquoi les producteurs bovins doivent avoir confiance en cette technologie. Dans la Partie 2, nous allons discuter des principales étapes à suivre afin de commencer à utiliser dans votre troupeau la technologie de l’analyse de l’ADN et de la génomique, avec l’objectif d’accroître votre rentabilité.

ÉCHANTILLONS D’ADN La collecte d’un échantillon d’ADN constitue la première étape du processus d’analyse de l’ADN. Il existe plusieurs manières de transmission d’un échantillon en vue d’une analyse de l’ADN, qu’il s’agisse d’une dose de semence, d’un échantillon de tissu d’oreille, tel qu’il peut être obtenu avec l’Outil d’échantillonnage de tissu d’Allflex, d’un tube de sang, de poils ou encore de cartes sanguines. Les poils et les cartes sanguines offrent l’avantage de pouvoir être entreposés pour plusieurs décennies à la température de la pièce. Par conséquent, ces deux types d’échantillons peuvent représenter une solution à long terme pour l’entreposage des échantillons d’ADN. De plus, le traitement des cartes sanguines peut être complètement automatisé aux laboratoires d’analyse de l’ADN. Plusieurs références sont disponibles concernant la manière de recueillir des échantillons d’ADN de grande qualité. Pour débuter, je vous invite à consulter la brochure “DNA Sample Collection”, disponible sur le site eBEEF.org (http://articles.extension.org/pages/73198/dnasample-collection#). À la base, assurez-vous que la carte ou l’échantillon d’ADN soit le plus propre possible. De même, ne réutilisez pas d’aiguilles ou de scalpels entre les animaux; nous ne voulons pas que l’échantillon d’ADN contienne de l’ADN provenant de plusieurs animaux. Les éleveurs de race pure devraient recueillir et entreposer un échantillon d’ADN pour chaque animal de leur troupeau. Ceux-là pourraient être utiles pour effectuer des analyses d’ADN dans le futur. TAUREAUX En utilisant des taureaux possédant des EPD-GE, on s’assure de bien débuter notre démarche d’analyse de l’ADN. J’encouragerais tous les producteurs à n’utiliser que des taureaux offerts en monte naturelle et qui ont des EPD-GE. Pour y arriver, il s’agit d’acheter uniquement des taureaux possédant des EPD-GE. En achetant un taureau ayant des EPD-GE disponibles, vous allez ainsi réduire substantiellement les chances de prendre une mauvaise décision d’achat. L’analyse génomique nous fournit la même information que s’ils s’agissaient de douzaines de veaux, dont les données de performance auraient été déclarées et analysées, en plus de celles du taureau. Imaginez leur utilité si vous devez acheter un taureau pour effectuer les retours chez vos taures au premier veau. On

50

veut alors avoir la certitude que ce taureau sera facile au vêlage. Après avoir employé un taureau, personne ne souhaite tirer sur des veaux lors de la période des vêlages. L’information génomique vient accroître la fiabilité des EPD et réduire les risques lors de l’achat d’un taureau. Par contre, qu’arrive-t-il si vous avez déjà acheté un taureau— devriez-vous faire analyser son ADN ? J’avouerais que, même avec un tel scénario, vous devriez faire analyser ce taureau. En comparaison avec une vache donnée, un seul taureau aura une influence beaucoup plus importante sur la génétique d’un troupeau. En plus d’engendrer des douzaines de veaux chaque année, dans plusieurs des cas, un taureau sera également le père de la prochaine génération de vaches. Lorsqu’on possède une meilleure idée du mérite génétique d’un taureau, on peut ainsi mieux apprécier le mérite génétique de son groupe de veaux, et cela nous aidera tant au niveau de leur régie que de leur commercialisation. En ayant une meilleure connaissance du mérite génétique d’un taureau, nous obtenons ainsi une meilleure connaissance du profil génétique de ses femelles de remplacement, ce qui nous aidera à bien choisir les accouplements afin de bien compléter leurs forces et d’améliorer leurs points faibles. L’information génomique sera valable seulement si on l’emploie afin d’améliorer notre processus décisionnel. L’analyse génomique nous permet d’utiliser avec confiance des taureaux plus jeunes, favorisant ainsi une réduction de l’intervalle entre les générations, ou encore diminuer l’âge moyen des parents, et un accroissement du taux de progrès génétique. Quand on fait analyser nos taureaux, on doit utiliser l’information génomique afin de décider quelle semence acheter, quel taureau on devrait acheter, ou encore comment on devrait gérer le groupe de veaux issus d’un taureau donné. VACHES ET GÉNISSES Alors que je vous recommande de faire analyser l’ADN de tous vos taureaux reproducteurs, vous devriez y réfléchir davantage et considérer d’autres éléments avant de décider de faire analyser l’ADN chez vos femelles. . Considérons premièrement une vache adulte. Vous avez déjà investi pour acheter ou bien développer cette femelle. En assumant qu’elle maintienne une performance satisfaisante, elle devrait probablement rester dans le troupeau tout le long de sa vie productive, permettant ainsi d’obtenir un bon retour sur notre investissement. D’un point de vue économique, il y a peu d’intérêt à faire analyser l’ADN de cette femelle, puisqu’on n’a pas à décider de la garder ou pas. On pourrait faire exception à cette suggestion, si on décidait de garder l’un de ses fils comme taureau reproducteur. La situation est complètement différente en ce qui concerne les génisses. Pour chacune des génisses nées, on doit décider si celle-ci sera élevée et gardée comme femelle de remplacement dans le troupeau, ou bien si elle sera vendue comme femelle d’élevage à un autre éleveur, ou encore comme veau d’embouche. On n’a très peu sinon aucune information disponible pour prendre une telle décision dans plusieurs troupeaux commerciaux. Dans les troupeaux de race pure, on a des EPD et des indices, par contre les EPD basés sur la généalogie ne sont pas précis chez les jeunes sujets. L’analyse génomique peut améliorer cette situation, puisqu’elle nous fournira plus d’informations pour prendre une décision de sélection.

Lorsqu’on fait analyser l’ADN de nos génisses, on doit avoir planifier comment la génomique devrait nous aider à obtenir un retour sur notre investissement. Si on constate que l’analyse génomique n’a pas d’influence sur nos décisions, il sera difficile de générer un retour sur notre investissement. En règle générale, il est recommandé de faire analyser deux fois plus de génisses que le nombre désiré. Avec ces prédictions génomiques, cela fera en sorte que le classement des génisses sera différent comparé à une démarche traditionnelle de sélection. On peut donc réaliser plus de progrès avec notre sélection en appliquant une pression de sélection tant du côté du taureau que de la vache. Si on utilise les indices économiques de sélection, notre troupeau devrait devenir plus productif et plus rentable. Au niveau des producteurs commerciaux, l’analyse génomique de votre groupe de génisses peut vous aider à commercialiser vos veaux d’embouche. Si on fait analyser tout le groupe de génisses ou bien un groupe de génisses choisies au hasard, la moyenne du mérite génétique du groupe de génisses devrait alors être égale à la moyenne du groupe de veaux d’embouche. Par conséquent, en faisant analyser ses génisses, un producteur commercial peut donc mieux connaître le potentiel de croissance en engraissement et de classement des carcasses de ses veaux d’embouche. Ces informations peuvent ainsi être employées comme outil de commercialisation des veaux d’embouche. Selon les préférences du producteur et de son système de production, l’analyse de l’ADN des génisses peut être effectuée à différents moments. Certains producteurs vont préférer recueillir les échantillons lors de l’étiquetage des veaux. D’autres recueilleront les échantillons lors du sevrage. Ou encore, certains vont attendre jusqu’au moment où ils ont choisi les femelles devant être inséminées, et ils ne feront alors analyser que les femelles confirmées gestantes par insémination artificielle.

CONCLUSIONS Les EPD-GE et les prédictions génomiques constituent des nouvelles technologies prometteuses. Les producteurs peuvent être certains que cette technologie fonctionne, plus spécifiquement à l’intérieur du cadre d’évaluation génétique d’une association de race donnée. Toutefois, comme dans le cas de n’importe laquelle technologie, les producteurs devraient bien réfléchir au retour anticipé sur leur investissement. En investissant dans la génomique, on devrait obtenir un progrès génétique plus rapide pourvu qu’on considère les informations génomiques pour effectuer nos décisions de sélection. Pour investir dans la génomique, on devrait avoir des stratégies différentes de commercialisation afin d’obtenir un maximum de retour sur notre investissement. Qu’il s’agisse de faire analyser seulement les taureaux reproducteurs ou bien le groupe complet de veaux, les producteurs bovins doivent identifier jusqu’où ils sont prêts à adopter la technologie de l’analyse génomique pour leur troupeau. On verra un accroissement de l’amélioration génétique au fur et à mesure que l’industrie bovine adoptera cette technologie. À propos de l’auteur: Jared Decker est un professeur adjoint à la division des sciences animales de l’Université du Missouri et un Spécialiste externe en génétique bovine. M. Decker a reçu son baccalauréat en sciences animales, avec une mineure en biologie, auprès de l’Université de l’état du Nouveau Mexique. Il a obtenu son doctorat en génétique de l’Université du Missouri, avec une mineure en statistiques. Il a grandi sur une petite ferme dans le nord-ouest du Nouveau Mexique, où sa famille élève des bovins de race pure. Il possède maintenant une petite ferme dans le centre du Missouri, afin d’enseigner à ses enfants les valeurs du travail ardu. Il travaille et aide les différents partenaires de l’industrie bovine à mieux comprendre les changements rapides au niveau des technologies génétiques. Ses recherches touchent la compréhension de l’histoire des races de boucherie et l’amélioration des coûts et de la précision des analyses génomiques. Il est actif sur les médias sociaux et son site internet est : « A Steak in Genomics ».

The Best Way For Everyone To Know About Your Sale

Contact Meghan or Ryan for more information on Simmental Country Eblasts Meghan Black 506.324.4825 mblack@simmental.com

EBLAST

Let Customers Know About Your Event!

Ryan Cook 780.818.3452 rcook@simmental.com

WWW.SIMMENTALCOUNTRY.COM 51

GARTH CUTLER

ANNUAL BULL SALE 3rd Saturday in February

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PO Box 5177 Lacombe, AB T4L 1W9 Ph: (403) 304 - 0896 email: circleg@telus.net

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Ryan Gylander Box 809 Wildwood, AB T0E 2M0

ryan_gylander@hotmail.com

1.780.621.2737

Simmeron Ranch Martin Skaret 1-56021 RGE. RD. 261 Sturgeon County Alberta, T8R 0V9 Ph: 780-939-3248 Cell: 780 913 7963 mskaret@xplornet.com www.simmeronranch.ca

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Red and Black Simmental Kelly & Jenna Waltz Vermilion, AB 780-853-3834

Where only 2 year old bulls sell

Shane & Shannon Wolfe and family Site 11, Box 47, RR 1 SUNDRE, AB T0M 1X0 PHONE & FAX (403) 556-8584 e-mail: wolfepack@airenet.com www.wolfesfleckvieh.ca

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BARRY & BRENDA LABATTE Box 72 Gladmar, Sask. S0C 1A0 www.labattesimmentals.com Ph: (306)969-4820 labatte.simm@sasktel.net Cell: (306) 815-7900

Dave and Krista Erixon 306-270-2893

erixonsimmentals@sasktel.net www.erixonsimmentals.com Box 156 Clavet, SK S0K 0Y0 Red & Black Simmentals

Jim (306) 928-4636 Dave (306) 483-8660

Lee (306) 928-4820 Fax (306) 928-2143 The Stamp Of Quality Simmental Genetics For Over 40 Years

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K

AN B ER S V I M R R A F

Ray Comier PO Box 141 LaSalle, Manitoba R0G 1B0 Ph: (204) 736 - 2608 Cell: (204) 782 -1191 Fax: (204) 736 - 4654 Email: r.r.comier@xplornet.com Website: www.riverbankfarms.com Red & Black with Fleckvieh Influence

BOOMER

CREEK LIVESTOCK

Owen Martin 4550 Ament Line Wallenstein Ont. N0B 2S0 C. 519-501-2207 E. owenmartin4550@gmail.com

Purebred Red & Black Simmentals

Tyler, Jen, Emma, Margaret Brooks 142 Clarke Rd. • Paris, ON N3L 3E1 • 519.770.9664

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23401 Big Bend Rd. Newbury, ON N0L 1Z0 Ron & Linda 519.695.6124 Mike & Melissa 226.268.0520

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Industry Events

Insurance

Auctioneer/Ringman

62

Photographers

Semen/Embryos

Trucking

Semen/Embryos

Marketing

BLI Bussiness Card Double 2015_Layout 1 2015-07

Box 1409 Crossfield, AB T0M 0S0 Office: 403.946.4999 Brian Bouchard: 403.813.7999 Darnell Fornwald: 403-795-8030 Chad Lorenz: 403.896.9585 Doug Domolewski: 403.635.1840 Email: info@bouchardlivestock.com

e Full Servic ting ke r a M k c Livesto - Sale Managment - Consulting - Order Buying - International Export Approved Semen & Embryo Storage Facility

Brian

Darnell

Chad

WWW.BOUCHARDLIVESTOCK.COM

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ADVERTISER’S INDEX

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ABC Cattle Co................................ 56

Double Bar D Farms................... 2, 56

MacKenzie Cattle Company........... 54

Silver Smith Farms......................... 55

Adair Ranch.................................... 52

Double G Simmentals..................... 56

Mader Ranches.................. 10, 11, 54

Simmeron Fleckvieh....................... 55

Alameda Agencies Ltd.................... 62

Double R Farms............................. 31

Maple Key Farm............................. 60

Skeels, Dan.................................... 62

Alliance Simmental Farms.............. 59

Downey Farms............................... 58

Mar Mac Farms.............................. 59

Skor Simmentals............................ 55

Alta Genetics.................................. 63

Dunc’s Cattle Co............................. 60

Mark Land & Cattle......................... 68

Southpaw Cattle Company............. 55

Anchor D Ranch......................... 9, 52

Dwayann Simmentals..................... 60

Masterfeeds.................................... 62

Spring Creek Simmentals......... 14, 58

Applecross Cattle Co...................... 52

Eagle Ridge Simmentals................ 53

Maxwell Simmentals................. 21, 54

Spring Lake Simmentals................. 55

Arrowquip....................................... 27

East Poplar Simmentals................. 57

McCormack Family Ranch....... 40, 57

Starwest Farms........................ 41, 55

Ashworth Farm & Ranch Ltd.......... 56

Edge, Dean..................................... 62

MCG Simmentals........................... 54

Steen Agencies............................... 62

Aumack Simmentals....................... 56

EDN Simmentals............................ 57

McIntosh Livestock......................... 57

Stewart Simmentals........................ 60

Bar 5 Farms.................................... 35

Elm Tree Farms.............................. 60

McManus Simmentals.................... 59

Stock, Mark..................................... 62

Bar CL Livestock............................ 52

Erixon Simmentals.......................... 57

McMillen Ranching Ltd............. 29, 57

Stockmens Insurance..................... 62

Beagle Simmentals................... 25, 52

Fallen Timber Farms...................... 52

Meadow Acres Simmentals............ 57

Stone Simmentals.......................... 55

Beechinor Bros. Simmentals.......... 52

Ferme Gagnon Farm...................... 61

MI Simmentals................................ 54

Storebo Farms................................ 58

Big Rock Simmentals..................... 52

Foley Simmentals........................... 60

Mitchell Cattle Co........................... 52

Sullivan Simmentals....................... 61

Black River Farms.......................... 59

Genex Cooperative, Inc.................. 63

Muirhead Cattle Co......................... 57

Sully’s Farm.................................... 60

Blacksand Cattle Company............ 58

GJR Simmentals............................. 57

Nelson Hirsche Purebreds.............. 20

Sun Rise Simmentals..................... 58

Blushrose Simmental Farm............ 56

Grant Rolston Photography Ltd...... 62

New Holland..................................... 3

Sun Star Simmentals...................... 55

Bohrson Marketing Services...............

Gravandale Simmentals................. 60

Nolara Farms.................................. 54

Sunny Valley Simmentals............... 58

............................. 6, 7, 14, 19, 25, 63

Grinalta Farms................................ 53

North Central Livestock Exchange Inc.. Swan Lake Farms........................... 58

Bonchuck Farms............................. 58

H.S. Knill Company Ltd.................. 63

....................................................... 17

Swantewitt Simmentals.................. 55

Boomer Creek Livestock................ 59

Hairy Hill Cattle Co......................... 53

North Creek Simmentals................ 57

T Bar C Cattle Co. Ltd.......... 2, 31, 63

Bouchard Livestock International.5, 63

Hannah Simmentals....................... 53

North Hill Simmentals..................... 54

The Register................................... 61

Boundary Ranch............................. 56

Harvie Ranching............................. 53

O Double E Simmentals................. 54

Timberlind Auctions........................ 62

Bova-Tech Ltd................................. 63

High Bluff Stock Farms................... 58

O’Brien Farms................................ 60

Todd Simmentals............................ 61

Bow Valley Genetics....................... 63

High Country Cattle Services... 31, 53

O’Grady Steel................................. 62

Transcon Livestock Corp....................

Brooksland Farms.......................... 59

Hi-Tech Farms................................ 60

Oberg, Don..................................... 62

..................................... 23, 33, 63, 67

BS Ranch....................................... 52

Hoegl Livestock.............................. 57

Okotoks Fleckvieh Embryo Group.. 54

Trevor’s Cowpix.............................. 63

Canadian Bull Congress................. 62

Indian River Cattle Co.................... 60

Oslanski Simmental Farms............. 54

Triple Rose Simmentals................. 61

Canadian Cattlemen....................... 63

Innisfail Auction Market................... 34

Parkhill Ranches............................. 54

Tryon Simmental............................ 61

Carey, Brent.................................... 62

Janzen Brogan Embryo Services Ltd.. Pearson Simmentals...................... 54

TSN Livestock................................ 59

Casaloma Cattle Company............. 56

....................................................... 63

Pheasantdale Simmentals.............. 57

Twin Brae Simmentals.................... 59

Cattle Cures.................................... 62

Janzen Ranches............................. 53

Phillips Farms................................. 61

Tymarc Livestock............................ 55

Circle G Simmental & Angus.......... 52

Jetstream Livestock........................ 60

Pine Creek Simmentals.................. 54

Virginia Ranch.......................... 32, 56

City View Simmentals..................... 56

JNR Farms..................................... 53

Porter Ranches............................... 54

W2 Farms....................................... 58

Clearwater Simmentals.................. 52

Keato Meadow Simmentals............ 53

Rancier Farms.......................... 13, 55

W2 Land & Cattle........................... 56

Crimson Tide Fleckvieh.................. 59

Kin Kin Cattle Co............................ 53

RDG Simmentals............................ 55

Weldehaven Farms........................ 61

Crossroad Farms...................... 43, 56

Kuntz Simmental Farm................... 57

Red Rose Angus............................. 58

Wells Crossing Cattle Company..... 55

Czechmate Livestock..................... 52

LaBatte Simmentals....................... 57

Rehorst Farms Ltd.......................... 60

Westway Farms Ltd........................ 56

Davis-Rairdan Embryo Transplants Ltd.

Lazy Bar-B Simmentals.................. 57

Rendezvous Farms........................ 59

Wild Oak Farms.............................. 61

....................................................... 63

Lazy S Ranch Inc........................... 53

River Point Cattle Co................ 19, 60

Windy Knoll Farm........................... 61

Deeg Simmental............................. 52

Lewis Farms............................. 53, 68

Riverbank Farms............................ 59

WJ Simmentals............................... 56

Destiny Simmentals........................ 59

Little Willow Creek Ranch............... 57

Robb Farms.................................... 58

Wolfe Farms............................. 24, 56

Diamond T Simmentals.................. 53

Lobster Point Farms....................... 61

Robson Acres................................. 60

Wolfe’s Fleckvieh............................ 56

Don Heggie Simmentals................. 53

Log & Tin Forest Products Ltd........ 62

Rosebud Simmentals..................... 55

Workman Farms............................. 33

Donovandale Farms....................... 59

Lone Stone Farms.................... 23, 53

Rust Mountain View Ranch............ 61

Wright’s Pro Rich Seeds................. 59

Dora Lee Genetics.......................... 59

Luv-N-It Cattle Company.......... 15, 53

SAJ Simmentals............................. 58

XRC Simmentals............................ 58

Dorran Marketing Inc...................... 62

M & J Farms................................... 59

Saugeen Acres............................... 55

Dorran, Steve................................. 62

M & R Cattle Co.............................. 54

Seven-M Livestock......................... 55

What’s Happening September

Sept. 1-4 Shawville Fair Shawville, QC Sept. 1-4 Brome Fair Brome, QC Sept. 9 15th Annual Ontario Autumn Simmental Classic Hanover, ON Sept. 9 BNH Contracting Livestock Equipment Auction Alder Flats, AB Sept. 15 October/November “Fall” Issue of Simmental Country Advertising Deadline Sept. 20-24 Lindsay Exhibition Lindsay, ON Sept. 20-24 Carp Fair Carp, ON Sept. 22-24 Maritime YCSA Classic Windsor, NS Sept. 23-24 Heritage Beef Classic Windsor, NS Sept. 23-24 New Brunswick Beef Expo Sussex, NB Sept. 30 Ferme Gagnon & Guests 20th Annual Simmental Production Sale Cheneville, QC Sept. 30 Eastern Harvest Simmental Heifer Sale Cheneville, QC

October Oct. 6 Oct. 6-8 Oct. 6-8 Oct. 13 Oct. 14 Oct.15 Oct. 15 Oct. 18 Oct. 21 Oct. 21 Oct. 25-29 Oct. 29 Oct. 30

Anchor D Ranch Simmental Sired Calf Sale Dawson Creek, BC Expo Boeuf Victoriaville, QC Olds Fall Classic Olds, AB Anchor D “Pasture Treasures” Female Sale Rimbey, AB Ottawa Valley Simmental Club Harvest Sale Metcalfe, ON December Issue of Simmental Country Advertising Deadline River Point Cattle Co. & Guests Fall Gala Sale Glencoe, ON Anchor D Ranch Simmental Sired Calf Sale Ponoka, AB Saltwater Simmental Sale Nappan, NS Partners for Progress Sale VII Shefford, QC Manitoba Ag Ex Brandon, MB Edam Fall Fair Edam, SK Rust Mountain View Ranch’s “Queen of the Pasture” Female Sale Mercer, ND

November Nov. 1 Nov. 1-4 Nov. 3 Nov. 3-12 Nov. 4 Nov. 4 Nov. 4 Nov. 8-12 Nov. 12 Nov. 13 Nov. 16-18

Hudson Pine Farms “Forever A Legacy” Complete Dispersal Sleepy Hollow, NY JTL Stockade Roundup Lloydminster, SK Stockade Roundup Fall Fusion All-Breeds Sale Lloydminster, SK 95th Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Toronto, ON Royal Elite All Breeds Sale Toronto, ON Yorkton Harvest Show Down Yorkton, SK Nelson Hirsche Purebreds 1st Annual Production Sale Del Bonita, AB Farmfair International Edmonton, AB Tingle Farms “Pave the Way” Fall Sale Vol. II New Castle, KY North American Select Simmental Sale Louisville, KY Futures One Online Simmental Sale - LiveAuctions TV

Nov. 17 Nov. 18 Nov. 20-25 Nov. 22 Nov. 27 Nov. 28 Nov. 29 Nov. 30

Jewels & Diamonds Simmental Production Sale Ponoka, AB Pembina Triangle Simmental Association Female Sale Cypress River, MB Canadian Western Agribition Regina, SK Agribition Simmental Sale - 50 For 50 Edition Regina, SK Harvest Hoedown 23rd Annual Simmental Heifer Sale Neepawa, MB Camrose Country Classic Camrose, AB Windy Hill Livestock Bull & Female Sale Moose Jaw, SK Ashworth Farm & Ranch Female Production Sale Oungre, SK

December

Dec. 1 Dec. 1 Dec. 1 Dec. 2 Dec. 2 Dec. 3 Dec. 4 Dec. 5 Dec. 5 Dec. 6 Dec. 7 Dec. 7 Dec. 8 Dec. 9 Dec. 9 Dec. 11 Dec. 11 Dec. 12 Dec. 12 Dec. 14 Dec. 15 Dec. 16 Dec. 16 Dec. 17 Dec. 17 Dec. 19 Dec. 21 Dec. 21 Dec. 28 Dec. 31

January Commercial Country Advertising Deadline Lone Stone Farms Invitational Female Sale Westlock, AB SimPower Bred Female Sale Innisfail, AB Beagle Simmental Dispersal Sale Rimbey, AB Wolfe Farms 13th Annual Bull & Production Female Sale Valleyview, AB The Gathering Sale Olds, AB The Source of Elite Simmental Genetics Lloydminster, SK Keystone Konnection 39th Annual Simmental Sale Brandon, MB Western Harvest 4th Annual Simmental Bred Heifer Sale Innisfail, AB Double Bar D “Sharing the Herd” Production Sale Grenfell, SK Transcon’s Simmsational 40th Annual Simmental Sale Moose Jaw, SK Peak Dot Ranch Fall Bull Sale Wood Mountain, SK McMillen Ranching Ltd. Herdbuilder ‘17 Sale Carievale, SK Hartman Cattle Co. Customer Appreciation Female Sale Tecumseh, NE Westgold Farms Bred Heifer Sale Vermilion, AB Shades of the Prairies Brandon, MB Y Coulee “You Be The Judge” Fall Bull & Heifer Sale Vermilion, AB Southern Alberta Simmental Roundup 24th Annual Bull & Female Sale Stavely, AB Bonchuk Farms Female Production Sale Virden, MB Double R Farms Dispersal & High Country Cattle Production Sale Innisfail, AB Friday Night Lights 6th Annual Simmental Sale Olds, AB Checkers Red, Black & Fullblood Simmental Sale Ponoka, AB Transcon’s National Trust On Ice Semen & Embryo Sale Red Deer, AB Transcon’s Fleckvieh Equation, Fullblood Simmental Sale Red Deer, AB Transcon’s Ultimate Red & Black XX, Simmental Sale Red Deer, AB Spring Creek “Golden Opportunity IV” Female Sale Moosomin, SK Sunset Simmentals Dispersal Sale Vermilion, AB Workman Farms Complete Herd Dispersal Virden, MB Luv-N-It Cattle Co Open House & Private Treaty Bull Sale Mayerthorpe, AB New Years Resolution Frozen Genetics Sale - Volume V Saskatoon, SK

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Lewis Farms 33rd Annual Bull Sale February 24, 2018

Website: www.lewisfarms.ca Office Ph.: 780-962-5050 Fax: 780-962-2467 Kyle Lewis: 780-220-9188 Jordan Buba: 780-818-4047 Ken Lewis: 780-818-3829 kyle@lewisfarms.ca jordan@lewisfarms.ca lewis@xplornet.com Guest Consignor: Mark Land & Cattle, Lenny Mark 780-842-7207