Promoting Genomic Technology in Cattle Sector

February 25, 2016 – Calgary, Alberta – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay announced today a $1 million
investment by the Government of Canada to increase adoption of genomic technologies in
Canada’s cattle sector.

The investment will enable the Canadian Beef Breeds Council to demonstrate to producers
the use and value of improving beef herds through genotyping. The project will make
genomic testing available for the various breeds at a reduced cost, increasing adoption by
producers. Determining the right genetic mix in their herds will allow producers to increase
their return on investment, while accurately predicting traits that benefit consumers and the
environment.

Quick facts
 Canada’s cattle and beef sector contributes upward of $33 billion to the economy.
 This project will support ongoing genetic improvement in the beef seed stock sector,
a key factor in domestic and international competitiveness.
 Canadian Beef Breeds Council (CBBC) members include national breed
associations that collectively represent more than 10,000 producers of purebred beef
breeding stock.
 This investment is being made through the Canadian Agricultural Adaptation
Program (CAAP), a five-year $50.3 million program that ends in 2019.

Quotes
“Canada’s beef sector contributes significantly to the country’s economy. Investments in
genomic testing offer producers a science-based approach to improve the selection of beef
breeds for improved productivity and quality.”

• Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
  “Canada produces some of the best genetics in the world and this is recognised around the
  globe. It is important that we continue to invest in research in emerging technologies such
  as genomics so we can maintain this pole position and to give producers here in Canada
  tools with which they can accurately improve the efficiencies of their production. We are
  very grateful for this support from AAFC and look forward to delivering some exciting
  results.”
• David Bolduc, President, Canadian Beef Breeds Council
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  Additional links
   Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)
   Canadian Beef Breeds Council
  Contacts
  Media Relations
  Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
  Ottawa, Ontario
  613-773-7972
  1-866-345-7972
  Follow us on Twitter: @AAFC_Canada
  John J. Crowley
  Director of Scientific and Industry Advancement
  Canadian Beef Breeds Council
  780-492-0169