This is a presentation from the Canadian Bovine Genomics Workshop held in Calgary, Alberta on Sept.14, 2009. The workshop was the first step in developing a national bovine genomics strategy for Canada.

1. ALMA Alberta Livestock & Meat Agency Ltd. Canadian Bovine Genomics Workshop September 14, 2009 Calgary, Alberta

2. The Vision: Profile Animals Early In Life Adding value within coordinated production chains by combining functional genomics with animal health status Sample Collected Seedstock Cow-calf Feedlot Packer Retailer University Markers for procurement, production or marketing DNA collected at or before weaning – information used later on in life. Include age and source verification for export purposes Parentage, selection, retained ownership

3. Why is - or isn’t – this working? University technology transfer – U of Alberta/U of Guelph Seedstock/breed association – do they really believe? what is the product/price? Commercial cow-calf – what is it…parentage? selection? retained ownership profiling? Feedlot – sorting? management? marketing? pharmacogenomics? Traceability? Pricing signal – is a $3 Choice/Select spread going to move the dial?

4. Prospects…? It may be possible, but pricing signals aren’t there yet There is no “one size fits all” product for all applications Alliances represent an opportunity for implementation The future – health, healthfulness, reproduction……..