CDCB Meeting November 2 to Focus on Feed Saved

Dairy producers and genetic enthusiasts are invited to join a virtual meeting of the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB) on Monday, November 2, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. (EST). Attendees may register here to participate via Zoom.

This discussion about feed intake, feed efficiency, genetics and sustainability precludes the CDCB launch of the new trait, Feed Saved, with the December 1 genetic evaluations. Heifer Livability and six new genomic type traits will also be launched on December 1.

The November 2 meeting will be opened by CDCB Chair Neal Smith of the American Jersey Cattle Association. Three renowned geneticists – Kent Weigel, Paul VanRaden, and Kristen Parker Gaddis – will deliver brief presentations on the research, data collection, genetic methodology, and expected results for the new Feed Saved trait. Weigel, VanRaden, and Parker Gaddis will then answer audience questions on a panel moderated by John B. Cole.

Frank Mitloehner will share insights on expectations from consumers and dairy customers, connecting the approaches that dairy producers and processors are utilizing for continuous improvement in sustainability and environmental impact.

Mitloehner will be joined by Corey Geiger, Lloyd Holterman and Juan Tricarico in a panel discussion to unpack the improvement possible through genetic selection, productivity gains and other approaches.

Geiger is managing editor of Hoard’s Dairyman, president of Holstein Association-USA, and a current member of the CDCB board of directors. Holterman is chair of the CDCB Producer Advisory Committee, owner of Rosy-Lane Holsteins, and recipient of a national award in April 2020 for outstanding dairy farm sustainability. Tricarico is vice president of sustainability research at Dairy Management Inc., Rosemont, Ill.