More and more, beef farmers are selecting breeds based on careful consideration of genetics. Incorporating particular genetic traits allows producers to boost profitability and improve performance in future generations.
Now, farmers can get up close and personal to check out beef breed genetics at the Ag in Motion Beef Breeds Showcase. By taking a closer look at their genetic options, farmers can decide where they want to take their own herd into the future.
“When selecting crop varieties, grain farmers often go check out field plots. Now we’re offering livestock farmers the same opportunity to help them select genetics,” explains Ag in Motion Show Director Rob O’Connor.
In the showcase area, live animals will be on display from each of the different breed associations, representing a variety of different genetic options. “What better way to showcase genetics than to have live animals at the show?” O’Connor says.
Unlike other showcase-style events, the animals will not be in competition to win banners or trophies; their purpose in being present is to highlight their genetics. Breed associations will be on hand with information about the benefit of both purebred and commercial breeders.
“Putting the animals themselves on display in front of 30,000 farmers is a whole new way of marketing genetics,” says O’Connor. “We expect visitors from across Canada and around the world, which makes this a great time to celebrate Western Canadian genetics from leading beef breeds.”
Ag in Motion is particularly well attended by beef producers from Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
The Beef Breeds Showcase, sponsored by Masterfeeds, will be open throughout the show on 1st Street in BMO Livestock Central.
Cattle genetics will be on display from:
- Saskatchewan Hereford Association
- Saskatchewan Charolais Association
- Leading Edge Speckle Park Breeders/Green Hills Livestock
- Andrew Ranches – Limousin
- Simmentals (FPO)