CRV, a world-leading cattle improvement organization, and Neogen, which operates an innovative animal genetics laboratoryhave entered into a working partnership to offer an advanced breeding solution based on genomic valuation of calves, equipping dairy producers with precision tools and information needed to make informed decisions in building their ideal herd.
CRV, using Neogen as their genomic testing partner, has developed a complete-solutions approach to building a dairyman’s ideal herd: HerdOptimizer. HerdOptimizer is a revolutionary genetic management program combining genomic testing, customized breeding goals, careful trait selection, easy-to-use test results and breeding recommendations to deliver faster and more reliable herd improvement. Not only does HerdOptimizer capture traditional U.S. dairy genomic traits, it also delivers results on more than 20 proprietary CRV HerdBuilder Traits such as breeding values related to hoof health, udder health, premium milk components, fertility and efficiency.
HerdOptimizer is for any producer looking to easily customize their breeding goals. The program uses the individual cow’s genetic makeup to determine the potential of her offspring and then selects the best matings to improve weaknesses within the herd.
“As CRV works to enhance their presence in the U.S. dairy industry, partnering with a leading technology firm like Neogen gives us the power to bring dairy producers the tools they need to evaluate the potential of the next generation of their herd,” says Amy VanderMark, CRV USA managing director. “Working together gives our organizations the ability to enhance our programs and services respectively while delivering the best genetic products to U.S. dairy producers.”
Industry Partnership Brings Innovation to Customers In 2014, Neogen and Merck Animal Health made headlines by entering a strategic agreement to market the Neogen Igenity genomic testing program. Today’s agreement between CRV and Neogen takes these partnerships to the next level and allows all three organizations to promote and sell a full package of innovative solutions for U.S. dairy producers.
“By combining the expertise, products, services and extensive networks of our three organizations, we are now able to bridge the gap between providing genomic profiles of producers’ cattle with delivering the tools and genetics to help dairy farmers meet their operational goals,” says Dr. Stewart Bauck, GeneSeek general manager. “I am excited to bring the CRV and Merck teams together to meet the needs of our customers by changing the way they manage their herds well into the future.”
“The ultimate goal of HerdOptimizer is to improve the overall health and efficiency of our producers’ operations,” says Dr. Sophie Eaglen, CRV’s global business development manager. “As industry-wide concerns around milk prices continue, we all want to help our customers receive the best return on their investments and keep calves that will better this return in the future with precision breeding.”
To learn more about HerdOptimizer and additional opportunities with CRV, Neogen and Merck, please visit HERE.