Page 4 - DVAuction Online Catalogs

Wann Ranch Eleventh Annual Production Sale • 2
Wann Ranch
The Science of Genetics
In 1996 ABS and Circle A Ranch of Missouri began a genetic discovery partnership that
continues to this day. This project measures important economic traits not always accounted
for in traditional EPDs. A Profitability Index was developed that accounts for many produc-
tion traits important in the life of a feedlot steer.
A 6000 head commercial cowherd is used for this test to insure large contemporary
groups. Progeny of proven sires are compared to progeny of young sires in very controlled
groups. These cattle are fed in an extremely modern 5,000 head capacity feedlot in central
Missouri. Many measurements are accounted for in the comprehensive Profitability Index.
• Calving ease
• Pre-weaning performance
• Individual feedlot gain
• Individual feed intake
• Actual individual feed conversion
• Carcass yield and quality
Certainly we have been able to quantify that some bulls sire progeny that are flat more
efficient and more profitable than progeny of other bulls. We are incorporating those genet-
ics into our herd wherever possible by using sires that perform in the top half of that test.
On our reference sire page we have designated those sires that excel in all or some portion of
those measurements with the gold Sire Alliance logo.
Just last year a new index was announced. While the Profitability Index accounts for per-
formance efficiency it does not address maternal value. The new Maternal Profit Index looks
at lifetime value differences between bulls’ daughters. It includes milk, heifer pregnancy,
and cow longevity data, as well as performance and carcass merit. It is an excellent guide to
balancing all economically important traits if you are retaining heifers. We are fortunate that
many of the bulls we have already used such as In Focus, Lead On and New Standard have
fared quite well on the Maternal Profit Index. Fortunately for you Connealy Impression is the
top bull among all bulls tested. We have several sons in this sale. Do not miss the chance to
take one of them home with you.
For more information on the Sire Alliance please refer to pages 28 and 29 in the new
2013 ABS sire directory. You may request your copy by calling 1.800.ABS.STUD. We will
continue to make scientifically proven genetics available to you to improve your calf value
and your cowherd!
Circle A Sire Alliance Feeding Facility