#17 - Kelli Retallick - The Art & Science of Genetic Selection Today

Kelli Retallick is President of Angus Genetics, Inc, a subsidiary of the American Angus Association. AGI was established in 2007 to provide services to the beef industry that assist in the genetic evaluation of economically important traits.

In this episode, we start with the basics of Expected Progeny Differences. We then discuss the continued need for phenotypes and measurements, even as genetic evaluations incorporate more genomic information into their calculations and algorithms. We talk about new EPDs coming down the pike for better reproductive efficiency selection tools. We touch on gene editing technology and even get philosophical on whether all this science diminishes the "art" that many still believe should exist in cattle breeding.

This episode may best resonate with those in the seedstock sector, but it's a conversation that should be good for other industry segments, as well, as we strive for the most practical, profitable genetics possible in the beef industry.

Angus Genetics Inc.