DAIRY CATTLE GENOMICS

Consequently, the overall objective of this integrated proposal is to make use of advanced genomic technologies to improve the efficiency of dairy animals for fertility traits through genomic selection. To achieve this objective, our aim is to identify genomic variation associated with direct measures of fertility in dairy cow populations (detection of estrus, pregnancy, pregnancy loss, and uterine health), and subsequently develop comprehensive extension and education programs that deliver science-based information to an extensive audience. It is our central hypothesis that reproduction in dairy cows is controlled, to some extent, by genetic components, and sufficient genetic variation for fertility traits exists in dairy cow populations to implement efficient selection programs.