Next generation of DNA testing
Herd improvement co-operative LIC is combining its DNA parentage testing and genomic evaluation services into one convenient service to help farmers identify their highest genetic merit animals.
LIC is introducing daily testing of bull semen to combat the threat of the Mycoplasma bovis disease.
This is one of a raft of new measures that LIC has put in place to reassure its 10,000 farmer customers during this mating season.
From last Monday, each semen collection from LIC’s bulls, which artificially inseminate up to 80% of the national dairy herd, will be tested for M.bovis and results will be confirmed before semen is distributed to farmers.
Although MPI says the risk of transmitting M.bovis from semen is low, chief executive Wayne McNee says LIC is not taking anything for granted.
“Based on our testing and strict animal management to date, we’re confident our bulls are clear of M.bovis. We have tested over 5000 samples from our bulls dating back to January 2017, and the disease has not been detected.”
“However, we know the risk of infection is a still a top concern for farmers and we want to take all measures possible to safeguard our bulls and help protect the national herd.”
The PCR test is highly sensitive and will detect if M.bovis is present in the semen. LIC is spending about $800,000 to manage any risk of transmission of M.bovis and is absorbing the cost.
The daily testing will be implemented for the peak mating season when AI technicians will inseminate at least 100,000 cows per day.
Analysis by Dunedin-based Techion New Zealand shows the cost of undetected drench resistance in sheep has exploded to an estimated $98 million a year.
Shipping disruption caused by Houthi rebels in the Red Sea has so far not impacted fertiliser prices or supply on farm.
The opportunity to spend more time on farm while providing a dedicated service for shareholders attracted new environmental manager Ben Howden to work for Waimakariri Irrigation Limited (WIL).
Federated Farmers claims that the Otago Regional Council is charging ahead unnecessarily with piling more regulation on rural communities.
Dairy sheep and goat farmers are being told to reduce milk supply as processors face a slump in global demand for their products.
OPINION: We have good friends from way back who had lived in one of our major cities for many years.
OPINION: European farmers are going to extreme lengths to have their message heard.
OPINION: The hustle and bustle of one of Bangkok's most popular fast food outlets may feel a world away from…