1. “Celebrate the Past and Discuss the Future” A Centennial Celebration of the Animal Improvement Programs Laboratory (AIPL) Breed associations research needs and priorities

2. Outline The wisdom of many was solicited for this talk. J.F.K. Donald Rumsfeld Johnny Cochran Barney the dinosaur

3. Ask not what AIPL can do for us ask what we can do for AIPL. J.F.K Science deserves and needs our support. Funding for USDA-ARS-AIPL research is a necessity for our industry. Tell us straight about the politics of funding. How can we help secure funding for dairy cattle genetics?

4. Research needs I know what I know. I know what I don’t know. But, I don’t know what I don’t know. Donald Rumsfeld

5. Research needs Selection of high-producing cattle (maximize production of valuable milk components in an efficient and sustainable way). Dairy Products – need to focus more on the products manufactured from milk.

6. Research needs HEALTH RELATED TRAITS - affecting fertility, net income, longevity, and lifetime profit - (including calves). INBREEDING CHALLENGES - Breeding plans to optimize genetic gain while maintaining genetic diversity. DAIRY BEEF – need information on the current beef characteristics of our cattle and how to modify or improve them.

7. Genomics How do we best utilize this new information? How do we use genomic information for on-farm management decisions? Surveillance program for undesirable genes and efficient control methods. Identification of desirable genes for improving the properties of milk for human health.

8. International First priority – U.S. farmers and consumers. We need a thriving dairy industry here in the U.S., in order for the U.S. dairy industry to be fully engaged in the AIPL research program. Unique time ahead, where we want to work cooperatively with foreign researchers while protecting the investments of the U.S. genetics industry. Help in quantifying the merit and value of U.S. cattle.

9. Did somebody call for a lawyer? Johnny Cochran In recent years, there have been a number of times when lawyers have been involved. Exclusive agreements with segments of US industry - are they necessary? CDCB provides opportunity for review by and input from at least 3 segments of industry interacting with AIPL

10. Highpoints of the first 100 Years 1984 – 1985. Now. The value of AIPL to the industry is as great now as it has ever been before.

11. We love you, you love us! Barney the dinosaur Working together. –No group in USDA has a closer relationship with the breed associations than AIPL and BFGL. One of our greatest needs and priorities for the breed associations is for AIPL to continue to thrive and continue to work with the industry. The interaction and technology transfer of AIPL with us and other segments of dairy genetics industry is essential.

12. Thank you AIPL for all that you have done. Enjoy the rest of the day, then get back to work!