A breeding value is an estimate of an animal's genetic merit for a particular trait. Using breeding values to select cows and bulls to be the parents of the next generation is the most effective way to achieve genetic improvement.

Genomics is the use of DNA to predict the future potential and profitability of dairy animals.

The page tracks genetic trends in the national herd, noting improvements in economically important traits.

Cow performance measurement lets you identify the most and least productive cows in your herd.

Effective cow data recording and performance measurement on your farm can make the difference in breeding decisions.

Inbreeding in cattle is when an animal's DNA is identical because it comes from a common ancestor on both parents' sides. This page explains how inbreeding coefficients estimate the expected degree of inbreeding, but these aren't always precise.

When it comes to managing a team, what does good leadership look like? And how do you invest in developing people when times are financially tough? Join us as we to talk to Southland share farmers Leo and Hazel to understand their views.

This page covers the concept of a base cow. Breeding Worth (BW) and Breeding Values (BV) are presented as the difference between an animal’s genetic merit and the average genetic merit of the 'base cows’.

This page covers the concept of genetic reliability, highlighting the confidence in an animal's breeding value and worth.

DairyNZ's research farms are an important industry resource that provide 'real farm' platforms with associated science resources, enabling pasture and animal trials to be carried out.

Effective team meetings on the farm are vital to keep everyone informed and motivated. Explore how to conduct daily stand-up meetings and weekly meetings to ensure they are structured, purposeful, and suit your team's needs.

Extreme weather puts pressure on daily farm operations, so you'll find guidance below on getting back to a normal milking schedule, managing feed, and keeping your cows healthy.

How to interpret rumination data and use daily rumination time for day-to-day decision-making.

Animal welfare goes beyond just daily care for animals on farm . It means adhering to standards set out by the Animal Welfare Act and welfare codes, and meeting consumer and market expectations.

To ensure optimal growth, health, and well-being of calves, feeding strategies should be considered carefully. Research indicates that feeding a higher daily allowance, split into multiple feeds, is better for calves.