Preparation Key for Successful Bull Purchases

摘要

As the spring bull-buying season is upon us, seedstock purchasers should do their homework to help ensure the bull(s) they purchase this year meet their needs. Preparedness is the key to making an informed purchase. Before you crack open the sale catalogs of seedstock suppliers, there are a few resources and skills you should possess. First, make sure you understand the use of expected progeny differences (EPDs) and selection indexes. While EPDs are not the only selection information you should consider, EPDs are the most effective tools available to describe the genetic differences between animals within and across herds. EPDs are much more effective genetic predictors than actual or adjusted performance records.