Faba and Nordic co-operation VikingGenetics Nordic Classification Sari Morri Faba, team leader / VikingGenetics, sire-analyst

25%50%25% Start of VikingGenetics

DenmarkSwedenFinland Holstein Jersey SRB/RDM/FAY Red Holstein Local breeds SRB/RDM JerseyRed Holstein Holstein

Why VikingGenetics- domestic challenges Expectations of new breeding services on the dairy farms Demands of profitability on the dairy farms Growth of international competition in domestic markets Economical situation is still getting strained Growth of R&D costs in future Request of even more competitive cattle genetics

Possibilities in Nordic co-operation Part of significant breeding program Wider and better selection of bulls –Especially Holstein Larger inputs to the R&D Share of expenses Risk of difficult animal diseases under control Nordic Breeding Profile get more visibility on international markets Better possibilities in export of cattle genetics VikingGenetics became to be one of the worlds biggest genetic companies

Faba Breeding advising Herdbooking Classification Animal trade Embryo services Insemination Fertility services Farmer store (eartags etc.) VikingGenetics Selecting bull calves performance testing semen production semen exports

Nordic classification system Partners –Finland, Faba –Sweden, Swedish Mjölk –Denmark, Danish Cattle Backround –classification work has been much alike –classification of linear traits are harmonized Common breeding values (NAV – Nordic Cattle Genetic Evaluation) Purpose –To develope and maintain user friendly system for classifying cows (holstein and red breeds) Timetable –Project started late 2009, Start of system late 2010.

Base population No of classified 1st lactation cows HolsteinRDC Finland Denmark Sweden Total

Classification Procedure Correction Composite traits

Future classification system in Finland, Sweden and Denmark National databases Use best available technology!

Thank you from your attention! D Banker dotter från I/S Rønhave