New sire selection rules for Show-Me-Select replacement heifers improve reliable calving-ease genetics.

“Bulls used in the heifer program will carry DNA-tested EPDs,” says Jared Decker, University of Missouri Extension geneticist.

The rules going into effect Feb. 1 were set by the Show-Me-Select (SMS) governing board of farmers.

“DNA tests add reliability to EPDs for selecting herd bulls,” Decker says.

Bulls for pasture-breeding heifers will carry genomic-enhanced [GE] expected progeny differences. In the past, EPDs were based on pedigree and production tests. “Now GE EPDs combine DNA, pedigree and production data into a single tool,” he says.

“DNA tests give results similar to 28 calving-ease production records,” Decker says. “More data boost confidence in a sire.”

The rules
With DNA tests, EPDs result from checking blood drops, tissue samples or hair root bulbs. Blood or tissue tests are preferred, Decker says. A one-time test adds data on young bulls equal to years of production testing. It lasts a lifetime.

Bulls bought before Feb. 1 will be grandfathered in, but those bulls must get GE EPDs by Feb. 1, 2020.

Seedstock producers advertising their bulls as “Show-Me-Select qualified” draw more bidders. Sires promoted as Show-Me-Select now must have GE EPDs.

The need for change
SMS heifers gained fame for calving ease that cut death losses and labor at calving. Spring and fall SMS auctions across the state bring higher bids for calving-ease genetics.

Buyers pay premiums to lower assisted births with first-calf heifers. In the past, high death losses took out heifers entering the herd. In recent SMS sales, heifers with genomic tests bring the highest premium prices.

More genetic data beyond calving ease, especially on carcass traits, came into SMS over time. Quality beef brings premium prices.

The history
SMS was started 21 years ago by Dave Patterson, MU Extension reproduction specialist. Now, SMS brings buyers to Missouri for replacements in cow-calf herds.

Only Missouri produces SMS heifers. Herd owners enroll in a yearlong MU Extension education program. Regional livestock specialists guide the heifer program.

SMS teaches management as well as genetics. “The program goes beyond typical heifer development,” Decker says.

One example: Reproduction tract scores on all heifers before breeding. Then pregnancy checks follow within 90 days after breeding starts.

Veterinarian tract scores rank stages of puberty, from 1 to 5. Heifers slow to develop can be culled. That cuts costs, boosts conception rates and shortens calving seasons.

Bulls used for pasture breeding or AI breeding must meet required EPDs.

SMS heifers meet a goal of predictable results as 2-year-olds, Decker says. First-calf heifers often have problems. Those difficult first births can lead to late rebreeding.

“Genomic testing adds EPD predictability and reliability. That cuts risks,” Decker says.

The future
“We know this adds cost to market registered bulls, but time is right for change,” he says. Since 2010, cost of DNA test fell from $150 to $37.

Show-Me-Select sales show repeat buyers bid more for added genetic data.

“Seedstock producers provide this as more customer service,” Decker says. “There are many strategies for meeting the new rules.”

Herd owners join SMS through county MU Extension centers. For more information on SMS, visit UM Extension. 

Dailey is a retired MU Extension professor. He writes from his home in Columbia.