Breed Improvement

By utilising the best genetics available, herd and flock performance and profitability can be significantly improved.

Selecting breeding stock with high performance figures is widely recognised as the single most effective tool for increasing economic returns or efficiency of livestock production. Essentially, this is achieved by identifying the best performing animals on weight gain, conformation, maternal value and in the case of cattle calving ease.

Research has shown that by selecting bulls with superior performance figures can result in an extra £47 per calf. Similarly, using a ram with superior performance figures can result in an extra £3 per lamb.

HCC run a genetic improvement programme that provides support to breeders to performance record their pedigree animals, and also provides support to commercial breeders on how to select animals on performance to maximise production and profitability.

More information on HCC's genetic improvement programme can be found here.

For details about what activities are available under the scheme, click here.

To download an application form, click here.

For further information please contact HCC on 01970 625 050. Alternatively send an e mail to info@hccmpw.org.uk.

Additionally, HCC have produced a series of publications on the benefits of genetic improvement and how to select superior genetic animals. Please click on the links below to download.

·         Practical Sheep Breeding

·         Profitable Beef Production

·         Bull Buyers Guide

·         Beef Sires for the Dairy Herd