Genomics Revolutionizes Sheep Farming at EasyCare Open Evening

The potential of genomics to enhance sheep farming will be showcased during the EasyCare open evening on July 30, 2024, at Ballycoose Farm, located near Carncastle in East Co Antrim. Hosted by Campbell Tweed, the event aims to highlight how genomic data can significantly drive performance in the sheep sector.

A representative from Signet explained the transition towards a genomic age, stating, “We are moving from genetic predictions based solely on pedigree and performance data to those that now incorporate genomic data.” This shift allows for a deeper understanding of the animal’s DNA variation and the individual genes it possesses.

Genomic data offers several applications, including sire and dam verification, which is crucial for pedigree societies. It also facilitates identifying parents in flocks that have moved away from single sire mating, a common practice in hill breeding programs. The representative noted, “Genotyping reveals the presence of major genes related to Scrapie resistance and muscle growth, as well as important fertility genes.”

The advantages of genomic information extend to traits that may only manifest in one sex, are expressed later in life, or are challenging to measure, such as methane emissions and meat quality. “Genomics can also help identify sheep suitable for specific breeding programs at a younger age,” the representative added.

Signet currently manages genomic evaluation systems for seven hill breeds and three terminal sire breeds. The organization is collaborating on various research projects with breeders and levy funders to integrate genomic data into maternal breeding programs, with plans to establish genomic breeding values for major maternal breeds in the coming years.

The genomic assessment initiative has recently expanded to Northern Ireland, where Signet is partnering with AgriSearch to enhance their growing database of genotypes. The representative emphasized the need for collaboration among farmers and stakeholders to realize the benefits of genomic assessments in the sheep sector.

The open evening will commence at 18:00, allowing attendees to view a selection of ewes, lambs, and rams from Tweed’s flock. The Ballycoose flock is known for its quality EasyCare bloodlines, which have been meticulously recorded through the Signet and Sheep Ireland programs.

Campbell Tweed shared, “The open evening provides a platform for visitors to observe the performance of our livestock. EasyCare sheep are recognized for their wool-shedding capabilities, but the core of the Ballycoose development program focuses on breeding ewes that excel in utilizing grass, ensuring optimal animal health, and allowing for outdoor lambing with minimal human intervention.”

As demand for EasyCare sheep continues to rise across the island of Ireland, Tweed highlighted the advantages these sheep offer to flock owners. “This trend reflects a growing acknowledgment of how EasyCare sheep enable owners to optimize their time while maintaining high performance levels,” he noted.

The evening will also feature members from the EasyCare Sheep Ireland Group, contributing to discussions and insights about the breed. Tweed farms alongside his wife, Isobel, and expressed gratitude to Dunbia for their support of the event.

Tweed is currently accepting orders for breeding EasyCare ewes, lambs, and rams throughout Ireland and the UK, emphasizing the value of fully recorded stock. He stated, “We are offering livestock that can significantly enhance any sheep enterprise. The increasing demand for EasyCare bloodlines is a promising trend.”

For further inquiries regarding the event or breeding stock, interested parties can contact Campbell Tweed at 07802 835355.