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Exploiting Genetics Through Breeding Programs and Genetic Evaluation
In today's rapidly changing environment, pork producers are faced with ever-increasing demands to provide a more desirable end product at an economical cost. This is a challenge that even the most efficient producers struggle with, and we as an industry need to take advantage of every opportunity to fine-tune our operations. One of the tools provided to us today, is the greatest diversification of proven genetics ever made available in this industry. It is up to us to use these genetics wisely, not only to benefit our production methods, but also to enhance pork as truly the meat of choice.
Genetic improvement is dictated by two major issues. First is the choice of mating system and selection of which population to utilize within that mating system, and second is the selection of the individuals within that population.
A well-planned breeding scheme utilizes maximum heterosis through the use of purebred animals at the parent, grandparent and great-grandparent levels. Within the breeds of the National Swine Registry, lies the most diverse pool of swine genetics in the world. With over 180,000 purebred great-grandparent females and 30,000 active sows, the genetic potential is unlimited. The ability to use all four breeds, Yorkshire, Landrace, Hampshire, and Duroc, within a crossbreeding system enables us to fully utilize the advantage that 100% heterosis gives.
Selection within the chosen population is enhanced through the use of STAGES, the genetic evaluation program of choice in the entire swine industry. Over one million performance records give NSR the largest genetic database available, and recent changes in technology improve the accuracy of prediction. STAGES is performed on a nightly, across-herd basis using breed-specific adjustments. State-of-the-art BLUP (Best Linear Unbiased Prediction) Animal Model procedures generate EPDs for five traits of economic interest, and three indexes are computed, allowing producers to use the traits and indexes desired for maximum accuracy in selection of breeding animals.
The combination of purebred genetics used in a crossbreeding program, and selection of parents with the aid of STAGES generated EPDs, will enable producers to realize maximum genetic gain and therefore maximum profit. Members of the National Swine Registry can offer the best opportunity for commercial producers to obtain the highest quality seedstock and the most value for their investment.
