Sheep Industry News August 2022

BREED ASSOCIATIONS Continued from Page 14

collection based on the needs of the commercial sheep industry, while still allowing individual members to raise the type of S uff olks they enjoy and can market successfully. SG USA: Genomics is playing a greater and greater role in genetic advancements. What is your breed doing to face those new chal lenges? BRETT: Th APSA has been an active supporter of genomic research. Th GEMS research project is underway to work on providing genomic-enhanced EBVs, as well as develop EBVs for more traits, and the Polypay breed is fi rmly engaged in this. Tissue samples are being collected from participating fl cks across the country. Having data come from fl cks in the industry – as well as from research fl cks – keeps the focus on the needs of the Ameri can sheep industry. JEREMY: Th United Su ff olk Sheep Association was pleased to provide both a letter of support and some matching funds for a genomics research project that started this year gathering data for genomic-enhanced EBVs. Information like this that can improve the accuracy of our genetic selection can really ben efi t the industry. I personally also think it is critical to try to fi nd funding for ad ditional sheep genetic research that can improve our existing genetic evaluation program (NSIP), in order to encourage greater participation and address concerns voiced by current program participants.

synonyms. Needs of confi ement operations, pasture operations, and range operations are diff erent. Th Polypay breed has animals that can meet those varying needs. Th NSIP tool is still but one tool in the genetic toolbox, and Polypay producers continue to do careful phenotype selection, as well. Th allure of chasing the highest number can be almost as strong as the allure of chasing show ring awards, so care must be taken to consider the whole genetic package and match it to the needs of commercial producers. Th se careful considerations of both phenotype and genotype are being done by progressive Polypay breeders throughout the United States. With their prolifi acy, mothering ability, out-of-season and ac celerated lambing, and availability of EBVs through NSIP, Polypays have become a foundation maternal breed for commercial produc ers across much of the country. JEREMY: Within the Su ff olk breed, there is tremendous diversity in genetics. Th is allows breeders to focus on diff erent target mar kets. Breeders might focus on heavier weaning and post weaning weights, improving carcass traits, optimizing frame size based on production system, show-ring appeal ( fi tted, slick and/or club lamb), or some combination of those factors. On the plus side, we have Su ff olk genetics available to meet many diff erent markets.

On the other hand, it presents a challenge for our breed as a whole to move in a cohesive direction. Th United Su ff olk Sheep Association conducted a comprehensive needs assessment a couple of years ago and we have been using the information gathered to lead our strategic planning process. One of the messages that came through loud and clear in the needs as sessment was the importance of maintaining the important role S uff olks play in the com mercial sheep industry. I think it is important to have frequent dialogue between the United Su ff olk Sheep Association board and other sheep industry organizations, such as ASI and the American Lamb Board. We also recently launched a new digital registration program – similar to what many cattle and swine breeds use – that will allow and encourage Su ff olk breeders to be more data focused. As we move to the future, I envision the Su ff olk breed placing more emphasis on genetic improvement and data

Brett Pharo of the American Polypay Sheep Association.

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