Module 9 Boost Business with Breeding
Introduction
Sheep breeding, in combination with good management and nutrition, provides an important opportunity for producers to optimise returns from their livestock production enterprises. The decisions made regarding breeding can have flow on effects for many years, so it is important that these decisions be made in consideration of the broader operational plan (Chapter 1.1 in MMFS Module 1 Plan for Success).
Just as important is ensuring that the livestock you produce through your breeding operation are fit for purpose, or more specifically fit for farm and fit for current and future markets. This means livestock perform well in your operating environment and produce what the market wants. You should avoid trying to fit a square peg in a round hole.
When you work out what fit for purpose means for you, you can generate profit by optimising the use of genetics in response to your profit drivers and managing your livestock to achieve the expression of desirable traits through breeding, including classing and selection, feeding and management.
There are a range of breeding tools which can help you breed an animal which is fit for purpose. Developing a breeding objective is important to help you use these tools and make breeding and selection decisions to keep you on track, as well as measuring your progress towards your targets.
Boost key profit drivers of efficiently meeting market specifications, reproductive performance and wool production.
Breed an animal that fits both your environment and your markets.
Optimise productivity and profitability by concentrating on the tools best suited to your objectives and circumstances.
Document a breeding objective and set goals and timeframes for key profit drivers.
Implement classing, selection and joining practices which ensure an impartial and consistent approach.
Ensure your breeding objective remains relevant and in tune with your profit drivers.
