Episode 279 - Cracking the Code: Dairy Genetics, Net Merit Updates, and Cold-Weather Cows with Katie Schmitt - UMN Extension's The Moos Room

Abstract

In this episode of The Moos Room, Brad and Emily are joined by Katie Schmitt from the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB) to discuss the organization's role in managing genetic evaluations and the National Cooperator Database. Katie, a Minnesota native, shares insights into the CDCB's work, including their transition from USDA oversight to an independent nonprofit, ensuring the stewardship of dairy cattle data. Key topics include the upcoming April 2025 updates to Net Merit, which will adjust economic weights to better reflect the current dairy market, and the base change, which will shift genetic evaluations to reflect progress based on cows born in 2020 rather than 2015. The episode covers the importance of data collection for genetic improvement, how farmers can contribute valuable performance data, and exciting new traits on the horizon, such as milking speed and calf health.Listeners also enjoy some fun moments with the classic Moos Room “super secret” questions, where Katie reveals her favorite beef and dairy breeds, adding to the ongoing tally. For more information, listeners are encouraged to visit the Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding (CDCB) website at uscdcb.com and subscribe to their newsletter for regular updates.