RDAR is delivering $563,380 in Sustainable CAP funding for new beef genomics research. The project, led by Dr. Kajal Latimer with the Canadian Angus Association, will help Canadian Angus producers choose cattle better suited to their local conditions.
Beef producers work in many different climates, forage systems, and management settings. These differences affect animal health, growth, and productivity. Many current genetic tools do not fully account for how cattle genetics perform in different environments. That can make it harder for producers to select animals that fit their farms and reduce production risk.
The research will develop environment- and management-informed genomic prediction tools, known as environment-specific genomically enhanced expected progeny differences (eGEPDs). These tools will build on existing genetic evaluations by combining genomic, environmental, and management data to help producers make more confident breeding and selection decisions. Similar work is already underway in countries such as Australia and the United States. This project will help Canada stay competitive and support stronger outcomes for beef producers.
The project will translate this research into a user-friendly dashboard that gives producers information tailored to their location and management practices. The goal is to make advanced genomic information easier to apply in breeding and selection decisions across Alberta and Canada’s beef production systems.
Speaking to today’s announcement, the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and AgriFood, said, “Canadian producers rely on Canadian innovation to stay resilient and competitive. By investing in practical research and tools, we are helping beef producers make more informed breeding decisions that reflect the unique environments and production systems found across our country. This project will strengthen our world-class beef sector, support producers and their families, and help drive growth in the Canadian economy."
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