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How genomic testing of heifers can improve profitability >More in © Tim Scrivener Genomic testing replacement heifers has a cost benefit of £19.39 a heifer, according to a three-year study involving nine Welsh dairy farms. The project compared the difference between estimated breeding values based on parent averages – a composite of a heifer’s family pedigree – and genomic predicted transmitting ability (PTA). Genomic PTA provides information early on in a heifer’s life to allow breeding decisions to be made before rearing costs are incurred. Genomic testing is now 60-70% reliable for predicting future performance, compared with just 35% for parent averages, but testing adds an extra £25-£30 to rearing costs.

United kingdomHolstein friesianMentera busnesTim scrivenerTom bletcherRural development programmeEuropean innovation partnershipEuropean agricultural fund for rural developmentVictoria hicksKite consultingClean air actEnvironmental billArgoed hall farmSupplies arlaFarming connectRural communities