Annual/Termination Reports:

[05/29/2015] [09/30/2016] [08/28/2017] [08/07/2018] [03/27/2020]

Report Information

Participants

Brian Bolt (brian.bolt@agriclear.com): Clemson University;
Matthew Burns (burns5@clemson.edu): Clemson University;
Bob Godfrey (rgodfre@uvi.edu): University of the Virgin Islands;
Bryan Kutz (bkutz@uark.edu): University of Arkansas;
Jillian Milopoulos (jmilopo@g.clemson.edu): Clemson University;
Erica Prescot (elpresc@clemson.edu): Clemson University;
Jeremy Powell (jerpow@uark.edu): University of Arkansas;
Megan Rolf (mrolf@okstate.edu): Oklahoma State University;
David Riley (david-riley@tamu.edu): Texas A&M University;
Jim Sanders (j-sanders@tamu.edu): Texas A&M University;
Trent Smith (ts289@msstate.edu): Mississippi State University;
Amber Starnes (arstarn@clemson.edu): Clemson University;
Rhonda Vann (rcv2@ra.msstate.edu): Mississippi State University-MAFES
Brown Loam;
Joe West (joewest@uga.edu): University of Georgia

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes of the S-1064 Multi-State Research Project Meeting
Clemson, SC
May 27-29, 2015

The S-1064 meeting was called to order on May 27, 2015 by Dr. Brian Bolt at the Clemson University Outdoor Lab in Clemson, SC. Dr. Bolt invited everyone to partake in breakfast and introduced Dr. Thomas Dobbins, Director of Extension at Clemson University, who gave the official welcome to South Carolina and to Clemson University. Dr. Dobbins gave an overview of current extension actions and discussed the importance of research and the application of results to production. Dr. Rhonda Vann, (President) announced that the members assigned to the nominating committee were Dr. Jeremy Powell, Dr. Bob Godfrey, and Dr. Jim Sanders; and members assigned to the resolutions committee were Dr. Trent Smith, Dr. Megan Rolf, and Bryan Kutz.

Station Reports for S-1064 projects were presented by objectives:

Objective 1. Estimation of genetic variation associated with animal health using classical animal breeding and genomic techniques to facilitate sustainable beef cattle production systems.

Objective 1.1 External Parasites
Dr. Bob Godfrey presented a report for University of Virgin Islands regarding tick parasites and association with body weight and ADG.
Dr. Megan Rolf, OSU, reported fly data is being collected through manual count of flies.

Objective 1.2 Eye and facial pigmentation associated with animal health
Dr. David Riley, Texas A&M, gave discussion regarding data being collected on eye/face pigmentation and requested images (one face on; one from each side of face) continue to be collected.
Dr. Matthew Burns reported that Clemson University will be contributing data to this objective.

Objective 1.3 Udder conformation
Dr. David Riley led discussion regarding udder confirmation data collection. Udder scores should be recorded the first week after calving. Dr. Rhonda Vann, MSU, and Dr. Bob Godfrey suggested methods of data collection on udder conformation.


Objective 2. Meta-analyses of economically important traits of cow productivity and fertility to assess breed and production system combinations.
Dr. Bob Godfrey reported that data show that there are some differences in the growth traits between Senepol bull and heifer calves reared under tropical conditions.
Dr. Gary Hansen is currently listed as objective 2 coordinator; however, he is no longer a member of the group. Bryan Kutz, University of Arkansas, was nominated and will serve as objective 2 coordinator.


Objective 3. Documentation of genetic components pertaining to heat tolerance adaptive traits in sustainable beef cattle production systems.
Dr. Trent Smith, MSU, reported on hair coat shedding which indicates the higher the hair coat shedding score the lower the body condition score.
Dr. Jeremy Powell, University of Arkansas, reported on hair coat shedding data collected during 2012 through 2014. Data was collected March through July each year. Adjusted calf birth weight and body weight of cow at weaning was related to the month of first shedding of winter hair coat.
Dr. Megan Rolf discussed data being collected at OSU on heat tolerance phenotypes. Long term water restriction being tested using a water restricting system. Crossbred steers are being observed and respiratory rates are being taken. Steers receive 50% of their individual baseline of water. HD80K genotype is being processed on steers involved in project.


Objective 4
No current reports
Mr. Gary Burns led the group on a tour of the Clemson University Beef Cattle Research facilities at the Simpson Station. The group was able to view the Hereford herd, see working facilities, and tour the bull test station.

Dr. Joe West, University of Georgia, S-1064 administrative advisor gave an update regarding the S1064 project. He thanked Dr. Brian Bolt, Dr. Matthew Burns, and Amber Starnes for hosting and Dr. Rhonda Vann for her leadership as chair of the committee. Dr. West also congratulated the group on the success of the rewrite from S-1045 to S-1064 and encouraged the group to continue to seek grant opportunities. He emphasized the importance of multiple stations actively collaborating on each objective in the project in order to justify the projects existence. He also reminded the group that a project report will be due 60 days following the meeting. Dr. Vann reminded the group to send electronic copies of station reports to her to put together a final report for this year’s project meeting.

The meeting location for 2016 was discussed as a joint meeting with the WERA-1 group to be held in St. Croix. Dr. Trent Smith made the motion to accept the location, Dr. David Riley seconded the motion and no opposing votes were made. Dr. Bob Godfrey will send out dates and more details (dates will be similar to previous years).

Dr. Rhonda Vann invited reports from the nominating and the resolutions committee for the S-1064 project group. The nominating committee had nominated Dr. Meghan Rolf as incoming secretary and Amber Starnes as Chairman-Elect for the S-1064 executive board. This nominations were accepted by unanimous vote. The resolution committee report was read by Dr. Trent Smith and was accepted by unanimous vote from the group.

The group toured the Yon Family Farm in Ridge Springs, SC.

Respectfully submitted,
Amber Starnes

Resolutions

Whereas the S-1064 Technical Committee is committed to improving beef cattle production systems in the southern region and other regions of the United States.

And whereas the S-1064 Technical Committee is improved by exchange of research findings and approaches at different institutions and locations as well as observing different beef cattle production systems.

Therefore, be it resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee expresses its gratitude to Dr. Brian Bolt, Dr. Matt Burns, and Amber Starnes for planning and coordinating its 2015 annual meeting in Clemson, SC and for coordinating tours of the research cattle herds at Clemson University and privately owned cattle herds belonging to Joe Davis (J. Davis Cattle Company) and Kevin Yon (Yon Family Farms). We would also like to thank Dr. Thomas Dobbins for welcoming us to Clemson, SC.

Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee expresses its gratitude to Mr. Rick Wiley and the Clemson Shotgun Team for their hospitality and entertainment at the Pickens Bend shooting range.

Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee expresses appreciation to Drs. David Riley and Andy Herring for their leadership in organizing and preparing the new S-1064 project.

Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee extends its thanks to Dr. Joe West for his oversight, leadership, and friendship as administrative advisor of the project.

Respectively submitted 5/28/15
Megan Rolf
Brian Kutz
Trent Smith



ACCOMPLISHMENTS

As this is the first year of the project, there have been limited analyses conducted on data. This section of the report is presented by objective, and primarily highlights data which have been collected to date.
Objectives
1. Estimate genetic variation associated with animal health using classical animal breeding and genomic techniques to facilitate sustainable beef cattle production systems.
Objective 1.1: University of the Virgin Islands; this study was conducted to evaluate the relationship of tick load between Senepol cows and their calves under tropical conditions.

Data was collected on multiparous Senepol cows (n = 127 observations) and their calves (n = 144 observations) born in fall 2010 and 2011 and spring 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. At weaning cow tick load was evaluated using a visual score (1 = clean, 2 = light, 3 = moderate or 4 = heavy) prior to the monthly acaricide treatment. Calf BW and tick load were measured at weaning and yearling. Average daily gain (ADG) was calculated for calves for the periods from birth to weaning and weaning to yearling. Data were analyzed using correlation and GLM procedures with calving season and cow tick load as the main effects and sire as a covariate due to unequal representation of sires across years. Calves born in the spring had greater 205-d adjusted weaning weights (P < 0.002) than calves born in the fall but there was no effect of cow tick loads (P > 0.10). There was no effect of calving season or cow tick load on 365-d adjusted weight of calves (P > 0.10). Spring-born calves had a higher ADG from birth to weaning (P < 0.003) than fall-born calves but there was no effect of cow tick load (P > 0.10). Calves of cows with light tick loads had lower ADG from weaning to yearling (P < 0.0001) than calves of cows with clean, moderate or high tick loads.

Spring-born calves had greater tick loads at weaning (P < 0.001) than fall-born calves but there was no difference (P > 0.10) as yearlings. There was no effect of cow tick load at weaning on calf tick load ate weaning (P > 0.10). Calves of cows with high tick loads at weaning had lower yearling tick loads (P < 0.02) than calves from cows with clean, light or moderate tick loads.
Cow tick load at weaning had low correlations with calf tick load at weaning (r = 0.24, P < 0.008) and at yearling (r = -0.23, P < 0.04). Calf tick load at weaning was not correlated with tick load at yearling (r = -0.01, P > 0.10). In summary, cow tick load does not affect calf tick load or pre-weaning growth. Because of the low correlation of tick load between cows and calves, and within calves, it may be difficult to select for the trait of tick resistance.

Oklahoma State University: To facilitate our ultimate goal of elucidating genetic and genomic control of resistance and resilience to horn flies in beef cattle, we began by developing metrics for measuring fly counts in pasture conditions. For this experiment, 114 beef females of various breeds from the OSU Purebred Beef Center were monitored over two summers (2013 and 2014) from June through mid-August for a total of 7 weeks in year 1 and 11 weeks in year 2. The cows ranged from three to 11 years old, with the majority 3-5 years of age. Every week, in the morning just after sunrise, high-resolution digital photographs were taken of one side of each animal. As the sun rises and the temperature increases, the flies migrate towards the underside of each animal, which results in more tightly packed, less visible groups of flies, so pictures were always taken in the morning. Each photo was then enlarged and overlaid with a grid for ease of counting the flies. The number of visible flies in each square of the grid was totaled to provide the estimate of the number of flies on one side of each animal. Performance data were also collected for each cow from the corresponding breed association, including birthdates, pedigree information, and calf performance information.

Currently, W. Shaffer is assembling data for analysis, including the fly counts for all animals in year 1 and 2 (n=114 unique animals), sire and dam, and calf performance information from breed association records. Because of the labor intensity of the data collection, we have more limited numbers of records than desirable to do a genetic analysis, but we will instead analyze the impact of horn fly load on performance. W. Shaffer is working this summer to complete the analysis of this data and develop a manuscript based on his findings.

Table 1: Summary of fly count information for years 1 and 2
Angus Hereford Simmental Other Breeds Mean Flies Max Flies Min Flies
Year 1 51 19 9 6 224 1961 5
Year 2 53 20 3 2 154 1191 2

We will also attempt to determine simpler methods of data collection (such as a single-time point measurement) that could enable more broad analyses of this trait with a greater number of animals and a less intensive data collection procedure. Development of a protocol that reduces labor would enable us to pursue larger numbers of animals and collaborators and will also enable us to pursue funding opportunities to explore the genetic underpinnings of resistance and resilience to horn flies in beef cattle.
Objective: 1.2: Mississippi State University: Photographs of each eye were taken on purebred Hereford and Hereford-cross calves to assess eye pigmentation. Pictures were sent for quantification and contribution to this objective.
Objective 1.3: Mississippi State University: Data were collected on 100 Fall calving purebred Angus, Hereford cows and 54 spring calving commercial cows. Udder and teat scores were recorded within 24 hours after calving. Data will be combined with other stations at the end of the project for analysis. At the MAFES-Brown Loam Experiment Station we also collected udder scores on Hereford and Hereford-cross (n=62) calves as well as purebred Brahman cows (n=8).
1. Meta-analyses of economically important traits of cow productivity and fertility to assess breed and production system combinations.
Mississippi State University and MAFES-Brown Loam Experiment Station: Cow performance and fertility data will be collected from fall and spring calving herds and combined with other stations at the end of the project for analysis.
University of Virgin Islands: This study was conducted to evaluate growth of Senepol bull and heifer calves from birth to a year of age. Data were collected on Senepol bull and heifer calves from birth to a year of age using calves born in spring of 2012 (n = 11 heifers and 10 bulls) and 2013 (n = 17 heifers and 16 bulls). Hip height (HHT) and weight (BW) were measured at weaning and yearling. Pelvic area (PA) of heifers and scrotal circumference (SC) of bulls were measured at yearling. Average daily gain (ADG) was calculated from birth to weaning and weaning to yearling. Data were analyzed using year and sex of calf in the model with sire as a covariate due to unequal representation of sires across years. The yearling data (HHT, ADG, PA and SC) was also adjusted for age because of a significant difference in age when yearling data was collected between 2012 and 2013 (314 vs 366 d of age, respectively). Age of dam was not significant (P > 0.10) for any trait. There was no effect of year or sex on birth weight (P > 0.10). Bulls had a greater 205-d adjusted weaning weight (P < 0.008) than heifers but there was no effect of year (P > 01.0). Bulls had a greater 365-d adjusted yearling weight (P < 0.02) than heifers but there was no effect of year (P > 0.10). Bulls had a greater ADG from birth to weaning than heifers (P < 0.001) but there was no effect of year (P > 0.10). Calves born in 2012 had lower ADG from weaning to yearling (P < 0.003) than calves born in 2013 but there was no effect of sex (P > 0.10). Weaning HHT was greater (P < 0.003) in bulls than in heifers and greater (P < 0.002) for calves born in 2012 than in 2013. Bulls had greater (P < 0.0008) yearling HHT than heifers and calves born in 2013 had greater HHT (P < 0.001) than those born in 2012. Yearling SC of bulls was not different (P > 0.10) between years (24.7 ± 1.3 vs. 24.4 ± 0.9 cm, respectively). The PA of heifers was not different (P > 0.10) between years (145.5 ± 7.7 vs. 136.4 ± 5.5 cm2, respectively). These data show that there are some differences in the growth traits between Senepol bull and heifer calves reared under tropical conditions.

2. Documentation of genetic components pertaining to heat tolerance adaptive traits in sustainable beef cattle production systems.
University of Arkansas:
Cattle were evaluated for hair shedding scores from March through July (28 day interval scores) of each year. Shedding scores were 1 through 5: where 1 = slick short summer coat (100% shed); 2 = hair coat is mostly shed (75% shed); 3 = hair coat is halfway shed (50% shed); 4 = hair coat exhibits initial shedding (25% shed); and 5 = full winter coat (0% shed). In addition, cow traits related to reproductive performance, behavior, and culling will be recorded. Calf traits to be recorded include sire/sire breed of calf, calf vigor, birth weight and date, weaning weight and date, and post weaning growth.

The objective of this study was to measure variation in hair coat shedding and determine if any relationships existed between coat shedding and production traits in cows housed at the University of Arkansas beef research unit near Fayetteville. An Angus-based commercial beef cattle herd was observed during a three year period from 2012 to 2014. Once monthly from March until July, at approximately 28-day intervals, mature cows and replacement heifers were evaluated for shedding on a scale from 1 to 5. A score of 5 indicated the cow/heifer had a full winter coat and a score of 1 represents a slick, short summer coat. For each cow, the first month a score of 3 (approximately 50% shed) or less was reached was considered the month of first shedding (MFS), and 3 levels were recognized reflecting MFS in May, June or July. Phenotypic data for cow age, calf weaning weight, BCS of cow at weaning, BW of cow at weaning, BCS of cow pre-breeding, BW of cow pre-breeding, pregnancy rate, birth weight of calf and age of the cow were collected and analyzed in PROC MIXED of SAS. Cow age was not different (P = 0.6) between MFS groups with mean ages being 5.4, 5.2, and 4.9 for May, June and July, respectively. Adjusted calf birth weight was highest (P < 0.01) for cows exhibiting MFS in May and not different for cows exhibiting MFS in June or July. Adjusted calf weaning weight tended to be greatest (P = 0.09) for cow with MFS in May, least for June and intermediate for July with cows exhibiting adjusted calf weaning weights of 487, 465, 473 lb, respectively. Cow body weight at weaning was highest (P = 0.02) in cows exhibiting MFS in May (1127 lb), intermediate in cows with MFS in June (1089 lb) and lowest in cows with MFS in July (1059 lb). No differences were noted in BCS of cows at weaning or in BCS of cows pre-breeding. Overall pregnancy rate was similar (X2 = .2) for cows exhibiting MFS in May, June or July. In these data, MFS score had a tendency (X2 = 0.08) to impact artificial insemination pregnancy rates with cows exhibiting MFS in May having the greatest AI pregnancy rate (54.5%), intermediate in cows with MFS in June (48%) and lowest in cows with MFS in July (37.5%). In these data, MFS score had a tendency to impact AI pregnancy rates and adjusted calf weaning weight. Shedding of the winter hair coat was noted to affect adjusted calf birth weight and maternal body weight at weaning.

Mississippi State University:
Hair shedding scores and BCS were collected over a two year period on 5,294 cows across the Southeastern United States, Missouri, and Texas. Data were collected in May by two technicians for hair shedding and given a visual score (VS) of 1 to 5 with a score of 1 indicating completely shed, 2 = 25% shed, 3 = 50% shed, 4 = 75% shed and 5 = no shedding. Heritability estimates for hair coat shedding and BCS were 0.42 ± 0.03 and 0.12 ± 0.03, with a genetic correlation between the traits of -0.25 ± 0.10. Repeatability estimates for hair coat shedding and BCS were 0.46 and 0.35, respectively. The heritability estimates for direct and maternal effects on weaning weight were 0.28 ± 0.05 and 0.05 ± 0.04, respectively. The estimated genetic correlations of hair coat shedding and direct and maternal genetic effects on weaning weight were 0.17 ± 0.22 and -0.30 ± 0.25. In summary, hair shedding is highly heritable and genetically negatively correlated with the maternal effect on weaning weight.

Oklahoma State University
A total of seven groups of 120 cross-bred steers, at least 240 days of age, with an approximate initial body weight of 284 kg are being used in a 91 day (21d adaptation and 70d test) feed and WI trial to establish baseline measurements, followed by a 35 day water restriction (this restriction will be preceded by a 35 day step-down in WI for a total study length of 161 days for each group of cattle). Only steer calves will be used to facilitate generation of truckload lots and eliminate sex effects. Within groups, all animals are blocked into two groups by weight and randomly allocated in a completely randomized block design to one of four pens (12.2 x 30.5 m) with 30 animals per pen. Due to the capacity of the facility, each replication consists of 120 calves, for a total of seven replications in a ~3.5 year period (n=840). In addition to the cattle involved in the intake trial, at least 20 additional animals per replication will be maintained as a control group, receiving normal management in the feedyard. For the control group, we collect daily pen WI using water meters and carcass data upon harvest. For the cattle in the WI barn, each replication begins with a 21 day acclimation period following arrival at the Willard Sparks Beef Research Center (WSBRC) at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater, OK, in which cattle adjust to the growing ration, experimental facility, Insentec feed system, pen mates, and recover after transport. After the acclimation period, a 70 day feed and WI trial is conducted to assess relationships between WI and genetics, and the health, performance, and behavior of low vs. high WI animals. To be in compliance with feed intake guidelines outlined by the Beef Improvement Federation (BIF, 2012), weights are taken at least every 14 days. At the conclusion of this 70 day intake trial, each individual animal will have a baseline WI established.
The Insentec system allows us to reduce WI each week for four weeks until a reduction of 50% of each individual steer’s baseline WI is achieved. Steers are allowed to acclimate to the 50% restriction for one week before being sustained at this level of WI for the final restriction phase (35 days). This restriction phase serves several purposes, including simulation of reduced WI that results from increased water adulterants and decreased water quality. It will also serve to evaluate the possibility of using mild water restriction as a management tool during extreme drought (provided that a relatively easy method for doing so could be implemented on-farm and animal well-being is not significantly impacted). We will monitor the animal’s performance during this time as compared to the control group performance and behavior (social activity and quantitative heat stress measures) as well as their own data from the baseline period related to behavior, performance, health (blood cell counts, hematocrit levels, electrolyte balance), and feed intake. Those animals which exhibit the most consistent performance, show minimal thermal stress during this period, maintain immunity and health status (blood cell counts within a normal range and lack of visible disease), and display the lowest decline in hydration levels (including hematocrit and electrolyte balance), will be deemed those most adaptable. Microbial populations are sampled during both phases of the study and will be evaluated to determine how these populations change during restriction as well as to identify any fixed differences between those animals most efficient and adaptable versus those least adaptable. The water restriction level we chose is moderate compared to some literature estimates (Thornton and Yates 1968), and our procedure was tested on a small group of beef cattle prior to initiating this study to ensure that the level of restriction is appropriate and does not severely impact animal welfare. All animal procedures have been approved by the Oklahoma State University Animal Care and Use Committee.
Throughout the study, ambient and pen environmental conditions are monitored using a Davis Vantage Pro 2 weather station and Onset HOBO data loggers which continuously record temperature, humidity, solar radiation, black globe temperatures, and wind speed. Animal behavior is monitored using both live observations and the Noldus© Information Technology camera and software system. At the conclusion of the water restriction phase, animals continue to the finishing phase under normal management, and carcass quality attributes (hot carcass weight, kidney/pelvic/heart fat percentage, 12th rib backfat, ribeye area, marbling score, USDA quality grade, and USDA yield grade) are collected at harvest using camera grading systems.
We have begun data collection for the third group of calves to be fed within the Insentec facility. The first group of calves has completed all phases including carcass data collection, and calves in the second group were transitioned to the finishing phase in April. We plan to collect carcass data after a ~100 day finishing period. We have not encountered any significant challenges with phenotyping or collection of environmental data, and we have been successfully building a large phenotypic database and sample database that tracks samples across project years to facilitate data analysis and maintenance of biological samples.
We have noticed wide ranges of variability in feed and water intakes on a daily basis, which have not been extensively noted within the literature. We have undergone extensive verification procedures to ensure the quality and reliability of this data, including periodic scale validation, daily and weekly system maintenance and monitoring, and visual and quantitative validations of the data being collected. We have also compared our results to those published in the literature that specifically cite individual intake events (Meyer et al. Livestock Science 103(2006)186-191 and Meyer et al. Livestock Production Science 90(2004)117-121), and have found our levels of daily variation in both feed and water intake are similar. Thus, we are confident that the data we have collected is as representative of true animal intakes as possible, within the bounds of both biological, mechanical, and environmental variance present within any study. We are currently working towards more automated methodologies for the aggregation of data for both daily and cumulative baseline determinations, and this data pipeline will assist in processing the large amount of feed and WI data being collected, and help ensure that all data is handled uniformly across the groups of steers in the project.
Blood sample collection prior to and throughout the restriction phase for each animal in groups 1 and 2 to monitor cattle health was completed during the feeding period. Blood samples were also stored for future analysis of electrolyte balance, which will be conducted following completion of the final group in the trial to minimize cost of reagents. To ensure the greatest consistency of cattle handling throughout the trial, human-cattle interactions and movement through our handling facilities was evaluated with a scoring system to ensure that consistent handling interactions and low-stress techniques were practiced.
All cattle in groups 1 and 2 were individually and uniquely identified with colored strips in order to differentiate between animals on continuous video recordings of animal social behaviors. The video footage has been stored on a 16 TB RAID 0 array data backup system for future behavioral analysis. Cattle in group 2 were also equipped with accelerometers (IceQubes, IceRobotics Ltd, UK) that automatically log data on the number of steps taken, as well as standing and lying behaviors. Group 1 cattle were equipped with similar activity loggers (HOBO Pendant G data loggers, Onset, Bourne, MA), however the loggers used were not compatible in the pen conditions (i.e., loggers did not remain strapped on the cattle legs due to the presence of mud in the pens). Therefore, new and more rugged loggers were acquired and successfully incorporated into group 2 cattle, and will be used for all future cattle groups. Cattle temperament and exit velocity was also measured for all cattle every time animals were processed or handled in a squeeze chute. Each day during the water restriction period, respiration rates and eye recession scores were collected on all animals twice daily to monitor signs of thermal stress and hydration status.
We are currently reprocessing all intake data, and will present summaries when we have additional replication for both summer and winter conditions to validate our previous results.
3. Investigation of early cow-life performance (first four parities) affecting lifetime production in Brahman and Brahman × Angus cows.
All participants are collecting data pertaining to this objective and will be compiling data over the following years of the project.

IMPACT STATEMENTS

Objective 1:
Because of the low correlation of tick load between cows and calves, and within calves, it may be difficult to select for the trait of tick resistance. One hypothesis is that the frequent dipping schedule (4-6 wk intervals) is suppressing any innate tick resistance of the cattle. Calves raised on forage in the tropics will have different growth traits that can be influenced by gender and year.

The tick load scoring system has been incorporated into data collection as part of the routine management of the herd. The low correlation of tick load between cows and calves, and even within calves, and the frequent dipping schedule may limit the amount of progress that can be made when selecting for the trait of tick resistance.
Knowledge of the effect of gender on growth traits of calves raised on a forage based system in the tropics can be used to assist producers when managing and selecting animals.

We are currently analyzing data from Objective 1 and should have results by the end of the summer. Developing a one-step data collection procedure should facilitate collaboration and enable us to pursue additional populations for phenotyping and pursue funding to expand the project beyond its current implementation.

Objective 3:
Hair shedding scores, although subjective, are well within the reach of both commercial and seedstock breeders. Using these scores and understanding their implications in cattle production will aid in the match of genetic resources to production resources. This could easily increase current production by 10%.

Hair shedding scores could be taken in May of each year by beef producers in the southeastern U. S. and used to select animals that would be more adaptable to their environment.

The animal trial that will contribute to objective 3 is still ongoing. To our knowledge, it will be the largest assembled population of taurine beef cattle with individual animal water intake records and extensive phenotyping on a variety of other traits.

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

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Report Information

Participants

Bob Godfrey (rgodfre@uvi.edu): University of the Virgin Islands
Bryan Kutz (bkutz@uark.edu): University of Arkansas
Jeremy Powell (jerpow@uark.edu): University of Arkansas
Megan Rolf (mrolf@okstate.edu): Oklahoma State University
David Riley (david-riley@tamu.edu): Texas A&M University
Rhonda Vann (rcv2@ra.msstate.edu): Mississippi State University-MAFES Brown Loam
Joe West (joewest@uga.edu): University of Georgia
Mauricio Elzo (maelzo@ufl.edu): University of Florida
Milt Thomas (milt.thomas@colostate.edu): Colorado State University
David Schafer (dschafer@ag.arizona.edu): University of Arizona

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes are pasted below.  Accomplishments are linked in the attachment below, since I was unable to link the accomplishments in the "Accomplishments" location.

Minutes of the S-1064 Multi-State Research Project Meeting

St. Croix, USVI

May 25-27, 2016

 The joint S-1064 and WERA-1 meeting was called to order on May 25, 2016 by Dr. Jeremy Powell at the Great Hall on the University of the Virgin Islands Campus in St. Croix. Dr. Bob Godfrey invited everyone to enjoy the coffee and other refreshments and covered other general housekeeping items. All participants introduced themselves and provided a brief overview of their roles at their respective institutions. Dr. Powell took volunteers for the nominating committee (Bob and Jeremy) and resolutions committee (David and Bryan).   Dr. Godfrey gave an overview of the experiment station because it was the first trip to the island for most of the attendees.

 Station Reports for S-1064 projects were presented by objectives:

Objective 1: Estimate genetic variation associated with animal health using classical animal breeding and genomic techniques to facilitate sustainable beef cattle production systems

 Objective 1.1 External Parasites

 Dr. Megan Rolf shared the work they had done at Oklahoma State University on horn flies. They discovered no relationship between reaction norms formed by regressing fly counts on THI and weaning weight. There were, however limitations on the data quality that were not known at the time of collection. The ultimate goal is to collect data on a large number of animals, so project personnel are exploring opportunities to automate fly counts with computer programming and to limit the number of times data needs to be collected to better manage the labor intensity of collecting this type of data.

 Dr. Bob Godfrey shared their work on tick loads on animals. They use a subjective scoring system on both cows and calves pre-dip and they found that tick scores didn’t differ between cows with a variety of performance traits measured. They did find that cows with higher tick burdens had lower BCS. Most animals were in the clean or light category due to weather and environmental conditions for the year the data were collected. Cow and calf tick load were not related.

 Objective 1.2 Eye and facial pigmentation associated with animal health

 Dr. David Riley shared their data regarding udder pigmentation and eye pigmentation. They have over 1000 records on pigmentation and more than 500 animals with repeated records for eye pigmentation. They are also monitoring sclera pigmentation on both the left and right eye. They are monitoring udder pigmentation in a group of cattle at TAMU along with scoring udder quality and teat scores as animals age. They are recording phenotypes at calving, mid-lactation, and after weaning.

 Objective 1.3 Udder conformation

Bryan Kutz discussed Arkansas’ work on teat scoring. They followed BIF guidelines for the scoring system and collected the data during three different stages of lactation including within 24 hours of birth, mid lactation, and at weaning. We had extended discussions about the relationship between udder capacity and udder suspensions and how that is being accounted for among the scores at different locations. Each location collecting data is going to take pictures of the 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9s for both white face and Brahman animals for comparison next year to help in standardizing the data between locations. Bryan also surveyed those that were interested in collecting foot scores using the Angus scoring system.

 Objective 2: Meta-analyses of economically important traits of cow productivity and fertility to assess breed and production system combinations

Dr. Bob Godfrey shared their data on hip height, pelvic scores, sex of calf, and scrotal circumference on a group of Senepol animals. They concluded that there are differences in growth traits between Senepol animals of different sexes reared in a tropical environment.

 Mauricio Elzo presented the UF station report. He reviewed data collection efforts on the multibreed Angus-Brahman and Brahman herds of the University of Florida. He shared their research on genomic-polygenic, genomic, and polygenic estimation of variance components, genetic parameters, and EBV for a wide variety of growth, ultrasound, and carcass traits for animals with varying fractions of Brahman ancestry.

 Objective 3: Documentation of genetic components pertaining to heat tolerance adaptive traits in sustainable beef cattle production systems

Dr. Megan Rolf shared their work on a project related to water intake and climate adaptability in beef cattle. They have found abundant variation in phenotype and response to water restriction and heat stress, and will be performing genetics studies in the coming year. The genotypes on the first three groups of calves should be returned by the end of summer.

 Dr. Jeremy Powell spoke about hair shedding data collected at Arkansas on an Angus-based commercial cow herd. They found that the majority of their cows are shedding in June, but some do not shed at all during the summer. Cows that shed later tend to be younger and those that shed earlier tend to have a larger body weight. Those that shed earlier also have heavier calves at both birth and weaning when examining adjusted weights and have better pregnancy rates. Jeremy also shared information on the white face cattle eye pictures and udder scores that have been collected at Arkansas.

Objective 4: Investigation of early cow-life performance (first four parities) affecting lifetime production in Brahman and Brahman-Angus cows

Dr. David Riley reported that udder quality scores are being recorded at TAMU and NMSU data has been contributed also. LSU and Louisiana Tech collaborators are being recruited also. Brooksville, FL data has also been contributed to objective 4 by Mauricio Elzo.

 WERA-1 reports were interspersed between S-1064 reports:

Milt Thomas reported on ongoing efforts at CGEL at Colorado State. He shared genomic research on grazing distribution collected with HD genotypes and GPS collars. He also shared PAP genetic trend data. PAP has a moderate heritability and making genetic change at high altitude is highly desired by producers. He also shared results from RNA sequencing of high and low PAP bulls. There were between 500 and 1000 genes differentially expressed between the high and low animals in a variety of tissues. He also shared results examining PAP measures and late feedlot death.

 David Schafer presented a WERA-1 report on the V bar V Ranch in Arizona. He described some of the research projects that are ongoing at the Ranch including breeding projects evaluating breed selection in that environment, brand healing rates between different times and coat colors, grazing distribution, and early weaning.

 Dr. Powell invited reports from the nominating and the resolutions committee for the S-1064 project group for the business meeting. Dr. Powell and Dr. Godfrey indicated that the nominating committee had nominated Bryan Kutz as incoming secretary for the S-1064 executive board. Bob moved we accept this nomination and it was seconded by Megan. His nomination was accepted by unanimous vote. The resolution committee report was read by Bryan. It was moved by Rhonda and seconded by Bob that we accept the resolutions and it was accepted by unanimous vote from the group. The resolutions are provided at the end of the meeting minutes.

 Dr. Joe West gave an administrative report, which was preceded by his encouragement for the group to band together and submit AFRI proposals. The project runs through 2019 and has been around in one form or another since the 1950s. He encouraged recruitment of new members and solicitation of new types of funding to grow the group’s expertise and ability to do research. Opportunities for recruitment for both S-1064 and WERA-1 were discussed. The group intends to continue meeting every other year with the WERA-1 group, so the next joint meeting would be in 2018. Next year, we will discuss where the joint meeting will be held. We reviewed the positions everyone would hold on the executive committee next year.

 We discussed meeting locations for next year. Gainesville, FL was nominated as the location for the next meeting in 2017. Bob moved that we go to Gainesville in 2017 and it was seconded by Bryan and it was approved by a unanimous vote.

 Tours included a tour on Wednesday afternoon of the UVI sheep farms and Annaly Farms, who are Senepol breeders who helped found the breed. On Thursday afternoon, we visited the AES Beef Cattle Facility at Estate Longford and ate dinner there. On Friday, May 27, we toured Buck Island National Park.

 Respectfully submitted,

 Megan Rolf, PhD, 2016 S-1064 Secretary

RESOLUTIONS

S-1064 Technical Committee

St. Croix, USVI

May 25-27, 2016

 Whereas the S-1064 Technical Committee is committed to improving beef cattle production systems in the southern region and other regions of the United States, and whereas the S-1064 Technical Committee is improved by exchange of research findings and approaches at different institutions and locations as well as observing different beef cattle production systems, therefore, be it resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee expresses its gratitude to Dr. Robert Godfrey for planning and coordinating its 2016 annual meeting in St. Croix, USVI and for coordinating tours of the research sheep and cattle herds at the University of the Virgin Islands and the privately owned beef herd belonging to Hans Lawaetz (Annaly Farms Senepol, Inc.) We would also like to thank Sue Lakos (Research Analyst- Sheep Unit), Henry Nelthropp (Research Analyst – Beef Unit), Willie Gonzalez (Research Assistant – Beef Unit), Ismael Montes (Ag aide – Sheep Unit), Royson Joseph (Ag aide – Sheep Unit), Jacqueline Romer (Admin. Specialist) and undergraduate students Amran Nero, Gilbert Roberts, Serena Joseph and Juan Martinez for welcoming and hosting the S-1064 group.

Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee extends its appreciation to WERA-1 committee members Dr. Milt Thomas and Dr. Dave Schafer for their attendance and contributions to this meeting.

Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee extends its thanks to officers Dr. Jeremy Powell and Dr. Megan Rolf for their support and leadership to the group. Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee extends its thanks to Dr. Joe West for his oversight, leadership, and friendship as administrative advisor of the project. Respectively submitted 5/26/16 Bryan Kutz David Riley

Accomplishments are linked in the attachment below, since I was unable to link the accomplishments in the "Accomplishments" location.

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

David Riley, Texas A&M University (david-riley@tamu.edu)
Rhonda Vann, Mississippi State University, MAFES (rcv2@rs.msstate.edu)
Bob Godfrey, University of the Virgin Islands (rgodfre@uvi.edu)
Jeremy Powell, University of Arkansas ( jerpow@uark.edu)
Trent Smith, Mississippi State University (ts289@ads.msstate.edu)
Mauricio Elzo, University of Florida (maelzo@ufl.edu)
Bryan Kutz, University of Arkansas (bkutz@uark.edu)
Joe West, University of Georgia (joewest@uga.edu)
Amber Starnes, Clemson University (arstarn@clemson.edu)
Raluca Mateescu, University of Florida ( raluca@ufl.edu)
Lakshmi Matukumalli, USDA NIFA (lmatukumalli@nifa.usda.gov)
Romdhane Rekaya, University of Georgia (rrekaya@uga.edu)

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes are posted below.  Accomplishments are linked in the attachment below.

 The S-1064 meeting was called to order on May 24, 2017 by Amber Starnes at the Country Inn and Suites near the University of Florida Campus in Gainesville, FL. Mauricio invited everyone to enjoy the coffee and other refreshments and covered other general housekeeping items. All participants introduced themselves and provided a brief overview of their roles at their respective institutions. Amber Starnes asked for volunteers for the nominating committee (Bob and Jeremy) and resolutions committee (Trent, David and Rhonda).  

Station Reports for S-1064 projects were presented by objectives:

 Objective 1: Estimate genetic variation associated with animal health using classical animal breeding and genomic techniques to facilitate sustainable beef cattle production systems. 

 Bob Godfrey shared his work on tick loads on animals in St. Croix. They use a subjective scoring system on both cows and calves pre-dip and they found that tick scores didn’t differ between cows with a variety of performance traits measured. Most animals were in the clean or light category due to weather and environmental conditions for the year the data were collected. Cow and calf tick scores at weaning were not related. Correlation of tick load between cows and calves, and within calves will be difficult to select for on the dam side. Selection may be more successful from the sire side. Effective use for management of tick burden.

 David Riley shared their data regarding udder pigmentation and eye pigmentation. He mentioned surgery for Jim. They have over 400 Hereford records and over 1000 Bos indicus and Bos taurus commercial cattle on pigmentation and more than 600 animals with repeated records for eye pigmentation. They are also monitoring sclera pigmentation across time on both the left and right eye.

Showed pictures of an eye with lesion development over time. Presented a table of lesion number on different parts of the eye. They are scoring udder quality and teat scores as animals age. They are recording phenotypes at calving, mid-lactation, and after weaning. Presented means for udder scores and lactation over time in Nellore and purebred Brahman cattle.

 Trent Smith shared work on eye and facial pigmentation associated with animal health and his work on udder conformation. Over 500 records on udder scores were collected. Presented a distribution of scores and ages. Descriptive statistics and simple correlations were also presented. Udder and teat scores were related. Breed differences were presented among Angus, Charolais and Hereford cattle. Breed differences did exist.   Least squares means for weaning weight with teat scores were presented.    

 Bryan Kutz discussed Arkansas’ work on udder scoring. They followed BIF guidelines for the scoring system and collected the data during three different stages of lactation including within 24 hours of birth, mid lactation, and at weaning. Bryan discussed the data on possible relationships of Age, udder suspension and teat size on weaning weight Bryan also presented data on foot scores using the Angus scoring system. Bryan shared data on the possible relationship of Cow weight, Body condition score and weaning weight with claw set and foot angle.

Objective 2: Meta-analyses of economically important traits of cow productivity and fertility to assess breed and production system combinations. 

 Trent smith is continuing to collect data on all fall and spring cows for meta-analyses of economically important traits.

 Romdhane Rekaya shared report on genomic prediction of continuous and binary fertility traits of females in composite beef cattle breed. Presented genetic study on three fertility traits (Age at first calving, age at puberty and pregnancy status). Genomic information improved accuracy of phenotype prediction by 27%. Age at puberty and pregnancy status showed sufficient genetic variation to respond to selection. Romdhane also shared information on GWAS.

 Mauricio reported ongoing research in this objective.

 Objective 3: Documentation of genetic components pertaining to heat tolerance adaptive traits in sustainable beef cattle production systems. 

 David Riley reported coat score on Angus cattle. The results are only getting an age effect on shedding scores. Only showing age difference in transition season. Angus cattle in Texas will begin shedding in April. Associated with selection and reproduction pressure.

 Trent Smith is continuing to collect shedding scores for heat tolerance adaptive traits in sustainable beef cattle production systems.

 Jeremy Powell spoke about hair shedding data collected at Arkansas on an Angus-based commercial cowherd. Discussion on shedding data on young heifers that have not calved yet. They found that the majority of their cows are shedding in June, but some do not shed at all during the summer. Cows that shed later tend to be younger and those that shed earlier tend to have a larger body weight. There was no effect of shedding on BCS. Those that shed earlier also have heavier calves at both birth and weaning when examining adjusted weights. Pregnancy rates were not affected by MFS in these data. Jeremy also shared pictures of eyes in white face cattle for objective 1.2. Jeremy also provided information on collaboration for the NIFA project with Dr. Jared Decker on creating region-specific genomic predictions. In addition, Jeremy discussed the project on prolactin gene and hair scores in collaboration with Dr. Rosenkrans at the University of Arkansas.

 Raluca reported data on genetic tolerance in two herds at UF and the Seminole Tribe in Florida. At the UF project they recorded temperature vaginally and environmental air temp and relative humidity. They tracked movement pattern and correlated with body temperature. Brahman stayed much cooler (consistently below 39 Celsius) during the heat of the day as compared to other breeds and crossbreds. ¾ Brahman stay under 39 Celsius under medium heat stress. Under low heat stress Angus and ¾ Angus remained over that threshold of 39 Celsius. At the Seminole reservation 725 two year old Brangus heifers were analyzed. They measured coat color, score and hair length, diameter. Coat score appeared to be related to body temperature. Perspiration rate was measured with a VapoMeter. Time had an effect on sweating rate but there was still variation within time. Does not seem to be any trend in relationship of coat score with sweating rate. Raluca also shared data related to their project” Breeding climate-smart beef cattle”

Objective 4: Investigation of early cow-life performance (first four parities) affecting lifetime production in Brahman and Brahman-Angus cows. 

 Mauricio presented the UF Station Report. Additional Data collection on udder scores, ultrasound and actual carcass data is continuing. They have and will continue to collect phenotypic and genotypic data over a number of years on Brahman herds in Florida. He is developing a statewide database with genotypes, pedigree and phenotypes in the Florida Brahman population, increase UF herd, establish statewide repository, conduct annual genomic evaluations and publish an annual summary. Identify and establish connected herds in Florida Brahman population.

 Amber invited Lakshmi Matukumalli to visit with us about the USDA update. He reported a hiring freeze in place so award time is two to 3 months and going up. Along with retirements there is a bottleneck occurring. He just wanted to let us know to be patient. He visited with us about funding opportunities and the kinds of grant proposals that look more inviting.   Animal genome blueprint is 10 years old. What does the genomic community want for the future? Wanted this groups’ input about animal genomics outlook. He visited about the NIFA budget. There is a 10% cut to the budget. He encouraged this group to send in writing any concerns about the review process for grant proposals for NIFA. Mentioned that he would like to see more proposals from the animal side. Extended discussion occurred about submission of grants within this community.

 Dr. Geoff Dahl welcomed the group to Florida and specifically to the University of Florida Campus. He was excited for us to tour campus and Beef research unit and see the long standing multi-breed cowherd. He talked of the development of a purebred Brahman herd in replace of the angus/Brangus and visited with us about the other specie industries within the state. He also talked about student population in Animal Science and campus enrollment. He shared information about support from the industry as it relates to facility development.  

 Amber invited reports from the nominating and the resolutions committee for the S-1064 project group for the business meeting. Dr. Powell and Dr. Godfrey indicated that the nominating committee had nominated Raluca Mateescu as incoming secretary for the S-1064 executive board. Bryan moved we accept this nomination and David seconded it. His nomination was accepted by unanimous vote. Trent read the resolution committee report. It was moved by Bob and seconded by Jeremy that we accept the resolutions and it was accepted by unanimous vote from the group. The resolutions are provided at the end of the meeting minutes.

 Dr. Joe West gave an administrative report, which was preceded by his appreciation of the group’s meeting quality and efficiency. He talked with us about the upcoming rewrite. The project runs through 2019 and has been around in one form or another since the 1950s. He explained the usefulness and importance of good impact statements. He advised us to begin thinking about information to be used as the project comes to the termination point and the need to develop a report and the rewrite. He also recommended a group picture for the record of attendance. He also encouraged recruitment of new members and solicitation of new types of funding to grow the group’s expertise and ability to do research. He reminded us of the annual report that is due in 60 days. He read appendix E and we visited as a group about opportunity for potential new members. He questioned the groups work on all objectives. The group intends to continue meeting every other year with the WERA-1 group.

 We discussed meeting locations for next year. We discussed meeting at a location with the WERA -1 group. Kansas State was nominated as the location as a backup for the next meeting in 2018. It was mentioned that we nominate a back up to the back up. Georgia was nominated as our third option for the meeting. Bob suggested using a doodle poll as to the date of the meeting.

 In the afternoon, we visited the BRU Beef Research Unit at the University of Florida and the research unit located in Santa Fe. We concluded with dinner at Longhorn steakhouse.

 On Friday, May 28, we toured Kempfer Ranch in St. Cloud, FL.

 Respectfully submitted,

 Bryan Kutz, 2017 S-1064 Secretary

2017 Officers

Amber Starnes – Chair

Megan Rolf – Chair elect

Bryan Kutz – Secretary

New Officer elect - Raluca Mateescu

Resolutions

Whereas the S-1064 Technical Committee is committed to improving beef cattle production systems in the southern region and other regions of the United States, and whereas the S-1064 Technical Committee is improved by exchange of research findings and approaches at different institutions and locations as well as observing different beef cattle production systems, therefore, be it resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee expresses its gratitude to Dr. Mauricio Elzo for planning and coordinating its 2017 annual meeting in Gainesville, FL and for coordinating tours of the research cattle herds at the University of Florida Beef Research Unit and Santa Fe River Unit and the privately owned beef herd belonging to George and Henry Kempfer (Kempfer Ranch, St. Cloud, FL). We would also like to thank Ms. Pamela Krueger (Administrative Assistant) for her assistance with planning and meals, Dr. Mauricio Elzo for his sponsorship of meals and transportation and to Dr. Geoffery Dahl, Animal Science Department Chair for the University of Florida, for his welcome and support of the S-1064 annual meeting.

 Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee extends its thanks to officers Ms. Amber Starnes and Mr. Bryan Kutz for their support and leadership to the group. 

Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee extends its thanks to Dr. Lakshmi Matukumali (National Program Leader for AFRI Animal Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics) for his attendance and insight into USDA-NIFA funding opportunities.

 Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee extends its thanks to Dr. Joe West for his oversight, leadership, and friendship as administrative advisor of the project. Respectfully submitted 5/25/17 Rhonda Vann

Trent Smith

David Riley

Accomplishments are linked in the attachment below.

 

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

Back to top

Report Information

Participants

Megan Rolf, Kansas State University
David Riley, Texas A&M University
Raluca Mateescu, University of Florida
Romdhane Rekaya, University of Georgia
Mauricio Elzo, University of Florida
Robert Godfrey, University of the Virgin Islands
James Sanders, Texas A&M University
Jeremy Powell, University of Arkansas
Bryan Kutz, University of Arkansas
Rhonda Vann, Mississippi State University
Joe West, University of Georgia (administrative advisor)
Lakshmi Matukumalli, USDA NIFA

Brief Summary of Minutes

Minutes for the S-1064 Multi-State Research Projects, Kansas State University, Manhattan KS, 2018, May 30, 2018

The S-1064 meeting was called to order on May 30, 2018 at the Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS. Megan welcomed everybody and invited everyone to enjoy the coffee and refreshments and covered other general housekeeping items. All participants introduced themselves.

Present: Megan Rolf, David Riley, Raluca Mateescu, Romdhane Rekaya, Mauricio Elzo, Robert Godfrey, James Sanders, Jeremy Powell, Bryan Kutz, Rhonda Vann, Joe West

Dr. Ernie Minton - Assoc. Director Ag Exp. St., Assoc. Dean Research. Dr, Minton welcomed everyone and gave a brief overview of KSU and College of Ag: 2,594 undergards, 540 grad students, 200 teaching faculty members, 16 undergraduate majors, 10 graduate programs. Departments: Ag Economics, Agronomy, Animal Sciences and Industry, Communication and Agricultural Education, Entomology, Food Science Institute, Grain Science and industry, horticulture and natural resources, plant pathology. Many positions are open and searches are ongoing (ANS department chair, provost, Dean, etc).

Lakshmi Matukumkali presented an update on NIFA programs. New acting director for NIFA - Dr.Tom Shanower and new NIFA director search is underway. Several open positions. AFRI budget approved for $375M in 2018. Farm Bill passed the House Committee, did not pass the full house. Senate version still in committee. Move the regulation of GE (genomic engineered) animal under USDA. NIFA program. Specific science priorities: Plant and Animal Breeding, microbiome, cyberinformatics. Foundational Program stays the say, released yesterday. FACT (food and ag cyberinformatics and tools) – last year there were meetings to identify priorities within the communities. This year program has money for 500K or 1M proposals. Animal Breeding and Genomics: high-throughput phenomics, systems approach, breeding strategies. Changes: multiple challenge area (SAS – apply systems based approach, combine multiple fields, similar to old CAP grants, multidisciplinary projects, recurring program). Breeding and Genetics program, last year funded 3 FAANG projects at the 1M level: poultry, cattle and swine functional annotation.

Station Reports:

Mauricio Elzo, UF. Data Collection: multibreed herd 499 cows, Brahmnan 162 cows. 2,394 genotyped with 250K, 1557 with 50K. Udder and teat score by Brahman fraction – slight upward trend toward Brahman. Maybe an effect of younger age in Brahman and maybe the culling effect. FL Brahman Genomics Project – goal to develop a statewide database with genotypes pedigree and phenotypes in the Florida Brahman population. Also increase the size of the UF Brahman herd to 260 cows. Genomic-polygenic EBS for a number of traits.

Raluca Mateescu, UF (Obj. 3). Reported data on genetics of thermotolerance in two herds at UF and the Seminole Tribe of Florida. At the UF project they recorded temperature vaginally and environmental air temp and relative humidity. Brahman stayed much cooler (consistently below 39 Celsius) during the heat of the day as compared to other breeds and crossbreds. ¾ Brahman stay under 39 Celsius under medium heat stress. Under low heat stress Angus and ¾ Angus remained over that threshold of 39 Celsius. At the Seminole reservation about 1500 two year old Brangus heifers were analyzed. They measured coat color, score and hair length, diameter. Coat score had a significant effect on body temperature. Heritability of body temperature under low THI around 25% and under low THI around 11%. GWAS for coat scores reveals strong signals throughout the genome.

Megan Rolf, Kansas State. Water Intake (Obj. 3). 579 crossbred steers, prediction correlations up to 64%, the lowest on e 33% when the env. was very different. Determine the duration test required around 35-42 days which is similar to the feed intake. Longer for the ad-lib group. Water intake prediction equations – R2 range from .34 .4 correlation, somewhat predictive. Water efficiency: residual water intake and water to gain ratio. Water intake range from 28-50kg. Genetic parameters (based on genomics): genetic correlation WI an ADG .05, WI and DMI .34. Also looked at carcass traits.

Joe West provided an administrative update for the group. He reminded the current officers: Megan – President, Jeremy – President Elect, Raluca - Secretary. He asked for a nomination committee for next year at the business meeting: Jim Sanders, Bob Godfrey. Resolution committee – (David and Brian and Rhonda). Project expires Sept 2019, need to re-write this year. Proposal – up to 3 pages what we would like to do with the rewrite need to be done by June. Has to be submitted Jan. 2019. Asked to think about the next project who will start next Sept. Lakshmi suggested to have the old objectives up tomorrow to revisit what we need to do next. Incorporate some of the new faculty and their work into the objectives.

Bryan Kutz, U. of Arkansas. Brian discussed Arkansas’ work on udder scoring. They followed BIF guidelines for the scoring system and collected the data during three different stages of lactation. He also talked about foot scores and suggested we might add this in the new objectives.

Jeremy Powell U. of Arkansas (Obj. 3). Hair coat shedding and effect on herd performance. Angus based commercial herd about 200/year scored from 2012 to 2018. Wide range of ages 3-16 years. Hair coat shedding score 1-5. BW, WW, bodyW, BCS, pregnancy score. They found that the majority of their cows are shedding in June, but some do not shed at all during the summer. Cows that shed later tend to be younger and those that shed earlier tend to have a larger body weight. There was no effect of shedding on BCS. Those that shed earlier also have heavier calves at both birth and weaning when examining adjusted weights. Pregnancy rates were not affected by MFS in these data. Jeremy also shared pictures of eyes in white face cattle for objective 1.2. Jim Sanders mentioned that a trend he observed was if a cow sheds down the back she will be fine.

Bob Godfrey, Virgin Islands. Showed pictures and talked about the two hurricanes in Sept 2017. 45 ewes and 50 lambs died, only 1 cow. Estimated cost of recovery > 600K.

David Riley, TAMU. David Riley shared their data regarding udder pigmentation and eye pigmentation. 1500 Bos Indicus and 1100 Bos Taurus 500 Hereford. They are also monitoring sclera pigmentation across time on both the left and right eye. Showed pictures of an eye with lesion development over time. About a 7% incidence of lesions. They have 3 years of repeated udder and teat scores on whiteface animals. Meta-analyses of fertility and cow productivity – maybe 3 locations that can be combined to start looking at these traits. Brahman early life reproduction –Mcgregor 60 cows, Overton 200 cows. Stressed the importance of continuing these project as we are just building the populations necessary for getting some good data analyses.

Will Fisk, Claudia, and Devin – grad students presented their work.

Discussion on the 4 current objectives took place. Look at parasite resistance and issues related to that - important especially for organic farming. Holistic approach – Using micro minerals to enhance response to vaccination, increase animal health. The eye lesions were discussed and the possibility of extending that work to other breeds. Maybe that will lead us to the numbers needed a lot faster. Collection of phenotypes and standardizing a protocol for collection of the desired phenotypes across research stations. Automation is desired for a lot of phenotypes – could be a good grant proposal for the Exploratory Program.

Romdhane Rekaya shared report on genomics and inbreeding – lessons from Line 1 Hereford. Inbreeding in Holstein population is .015% per year. Line 1 Hereford founded in 1934. Inbreeding estimates based on genotypes: genomic relationships and runs of homozygosity. Aims: determine the effect of animal and its parental level of inbreeding on growth and fertility traits. Inbreeding trend shows a drop and expansion in inbreeding around generation 40, maybe around 1960. Inbreeding estimates of .29 based on pedigree and .3 based on markers. He showed the distribution of the 4 different measures of inbreeding – small variation in the pedigree one, but large variation in the genomic estimated inbreeding.

Megan asked Joe West to lead the discussion on the re-write. Need to have a writing committee with a chair – but everybody will participate in writing. It will have to be a new project with a new number, but we can continue some of the older research, just revise the objectives to reflect some of the new people and newer projects. New project of max 15 pages needs to be completed by Jan. 2019.

Bob – need to continue Objective 3 Documentation of genetic components pertaining to heat tolerance adaptive traits in sustainable beef cattle production systems. KSU, UFL, UAR, MSU, UVI, TAMU. Need to tie to genetics but extend it to incorporate the development of measures for thermotolerance. Include the thermotolerance and adaptability. Design genetic panels for selection purposes, including this information in genetic evaluation.

Physiology: hair score, sweating, UARK, UVI, UFL.

Genetic: UFL, KSU, MSU (Bob and Raluca to coordinate).

David –Old objective 1. Estimate genetic variation associated with animal health using classical animal breeding and genomic techniques to facilitate sustainable beef cattle production systems. Take out the external parasites. Keep the eye, udder include feet, structural soundness, skull. Rename it from animal health to structural soundness. (David, Jeremy, Rhonda and Brian to coordinate)

Feet: TAMU, MSU, UAR, UVI.

Udder: MSU, TAMU, UVI, UFL, UAR, KSU?

Eye: MSU, TAMU, UAR

Skull: TAMU, UARK, MSU

Combine Obj. 2 with Obj. 4. New Objective: Productivity and fertility: longevity and fertility and meat quality and database creation. MSU, TAMU, UARK, UFL. (Rom, Rhonda, David to coordinate)

Call it “Systems approach to analyzing ERT” and include wording to reflect we are collecting new or novel traits.

Need to get objectives outlined and then by email the participating universities can describe each objective and activities.

Megan nominated that Trent head up the Writing committee based on Trent’s volunteering of helping in any re-writing. David, Rhonda and Bryan will assist.

Current Title: Genetic improvement of adaptation and reproduction to enhance sustainability of cow-calf production in the southern US. New Title: Enhancing sustainability of beef cattle production in Southern and Central US through genetic improvement.

The S1064 was selected and nominated by the UF Dean of Research for the Southern Region Multistate research projects excellence awards, and Eric Young just informed Joe West that we won the nomination from the Southern region. We are now competing at the national level and we will know at the Fall Directors meeting.

We discussed the location for next year. Georgia was proposed but there is a Centennial year celebration and next year would be difficult. Rhonda is willing to host at Brown Loam (Mississippi State). Nomination was approved.

In the afternoon we visited the Range Unit at the Konza Prairie.

On Friday, May 31 we toured the Diedrich Ranch and Fink Beef Genetics.

Respectfully submitted,

Raluca Mateescu, 2018 S-1064 Secretary

2018 Officers

Megan Rolf – Chair

Bryan Kutz – Chair elect

Raluca Mateescu – Secretary

New Officer elect - Romdhane Rekaya

2018 Participants for S-1064

Resolutions

Whereas the S-1064 Technical Committee is committed to improving beef cattle production systems in the Southern region and other regions of the United States, and whereas the S-1064 Technical Committee is improved by exchange of research findings and approaches at different institutions and locations as well as observing different beef cattle production systems, therefore, be it resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee expresses its gratitude to Dr. Megan Rolf and graduate students Mr. Will Fisk, Ms. Devin Jacobs, and Ms. Claudia Silveria, for planning and coordinating its 2018 annual meeting in Manhattan, Kansas, and for coordinating tours and activites. The committee expresses its gratitude to Dr. K.C. Olson for his tour of the research cattle herds at the Kansas State University Range Unit, Mr. Mark Diedrich for the tour of Diedrich’s Ranch, and Mr. Galen Fink for the tour of Fink’s Beef Genetics and for providing lunch to the S-1064 group. We would also like to thank Ms. Angie Denton and Ms. Lois Schreiner for assistance with planning and meals, and to Dr. Ernie Minton, Associate Director of the Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station, for his welcome and support of the S-1064 annual meeting.

Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee extends its thanks to officers Dr. Megan Rolf, chair, Mr. Bryan Kutz chair-elect, and Dr. Raluca Mateescu, secretary, for their support and leadership to the group.

Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee extends its thanks to Dr. Lakshmi Matukumalli, National Program Leader for USDA-AFRI Animal Genomics, for his attendance and insight into USDA-NIFA funding opportunities.

Be it also resolved that the S-1064 Technical Committee again extends its appreciation to Dr. Joe West for his continued oversight, leadership, and friendship as administrative advisor of the project.

Respectfully submitted 5/31/18

Rhonda Vann

Bryan Kutz

David Riley

Accomplishments

<p><strong>A summary of Accomplishments is in the attached file.</strong></p>

Publications

<p>PUBLICATIONS:</p><br /> <ol><br /> <ol><br /> <li>Sumreddee, P., Togniani, S., EH Hay, SE. Aggrey, and R. Rekaya. (2018). Inbreeding depression in line 1 Hereford cattle population using pedigree and genomic information. J. Anim. Sci. (Under review)</li><br /> <li>Toghiani, S., E. Hay, P. Sumreddee, T. W. Geary, R. Rekaya, A. J. Roberts. (2017). Genomic prediction of continuous and binary fertility traits of females in a composite beef cattle breed. J. Anim. Sci. Journal of Animal Science 10/2017; DOI:10.2527/jas2017.1944</li><br /> <li>Sumreddee, P., S. Toghiani, E.H. Hay, A. Ling, S. E. Aggrey, R. Rekaya (2018). Inbreeding depression in a Herford beef cattle population using the pedigree and genomic information. ASAS Meeting, Vancouver, Canada (Abstr).</li><br /> <li>Tolleson, M.W., C.A. Gill, A.D. Herring, P.K. Riggs, J.E. Sawyer, J.O. Sanders, and D.G. Riley. 2017. Association of udder traits with single nucleotide polymorphisms in crossbred Bos indicus-Bos taurus cows. J. Anim. Sci. 95:2399&ndash;2407. doi:10.2527/jas.2017.1385.</li><br /> <li>Chase, C.C. Jr., R.D. Randel, D.G. Riley, S.W. Coleman, and W.A. Phillips. 2017. Evaluation of tropically adapted straightbred and crossbred beef cattle:Cortisol concentration and measures of temperament at weaning and transport. J. Anim. Sci. 95:5253&ndash;5262. doi:10.2527/jas2017.1924</li><br /> <li>Engle, B. N., A. D. Herring, J. E. Sawyer, D. G. Riley, J. O. Sanders, and C. A. Gill. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2018. Genome-wide association study for stayability measures in Nellore-Angus crossbred cows. J. Anim. Sci. 96:1205&ndash;1214 doi: 10.1093/jas/sky067.</li><br /> <li>Vann, R.C., B.P. Littlejohn, D.G. Riley, T.H. Welsh, Jr., R.D. Randel, and S.T. Willard. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2017. The influence of cow temperament on temperament and performance of offspring. J. Anim. Sci. 95(Suppl. 4):242(Abstr.) doi:10.2527/asasann.2017.496</li><br /> <li>Koltes, J. E., S. K. Chewning, D. A. Koltes, J. G. Powell, J. J. Chewning, L. Meyer, B. E. Mote, J. Tucker, and D. S. Hubbell, III. 2018. Automated collection of heat stress data in livestock: new technologies, opportunities and applications. Translational Animal Science. (Submitted)</li><br /> <li>Koltes, D. A., S. K. Chewning, J. G. Powell, L. M. Meyer, J. Tucker, D. S. Hubbell, III, and J. E. Koltes. 2018. In search of novel phenotypes and biomarkers associated with tall fescue and heat tolerance in crossbred beef cattle. Midwest ASAS Omaha, NE.</li><br /> <li>C. Ahlberg, Allwardt, K., A. Broocks, K. Bruno, A. Taylor, C. Krehbiel, M. Calvo-Lorenzo, C. Richards, S. Place, U. DeSilva, D. VanOverbeke, R. Mateescu, J. Bormann, R.L. Weaber, L.A. Kuehn, and M.M. Rolf*. 2018.&nbsp;&nbsp;Test duration for water intake in beef cattle. Journal of Animal Science. (<em>Accepted</em>)</li><br /> <li>Allwardt, K., C. Ahlberg, A. Broocks, K. Bruno, A. Taylor, S. Place, C. Richards, C. Krehbiel, M. Calvo-Lorenzo, U. DeSilva, D. VanOverbeke, R. Mateescu, C. Goad, and M.M. Rolf*. 2017. Technical note: Validation of an automated system for monitoring and restricting water intake in group-housed beef steers. Journal of Animal Science 95(9):4213-4219.</li><br /> <li>Dikmen, S., R. G. Mateescu, M. A. Elzo, and P. J. Hansen. 2018. Determination of the optimum contribution of Brahman genetics in an Angus-Brahman multibreed herd for regulation of body temperature during hot weather. J. Anim. Sci. (<a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/sky133">https://doi.org/10.1093/jas/sky133</a>).</li><br /> <li>Elzo, M. A., R. Mateescu, C. Carr, D. O. Rae,&nbsp;T. Scheffler, J. Scheffler, K. C. Jeong, J. D. Driver, and M. D. Driver.&nbsp;&nbsp;2018. FCEF 2018 Report 1 for Florida Brahman: Genomic selection for tenderness, marbling, and reproductive tract score. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, p 1- 9.</li><br /> <li>Elzo, M. A., R. Mateescu, C. Carr, D. O. Rae,&nbsp;T. Scheffler, J. Scheffler, K. C. Jeong, J. D. Driver, and M. D. Driver. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2018. Florida Brahman: Genomic selection for tenderness, marbling, and reproductive tract score. The Florida Cattleman &amp; Livestock Journal, 82(6):102-103.</li><br /> <li>Elzo, M. A., R. Mateescu, C. Carr, D. O. Rae,&nbsp;T. Scheffler, J. Scheffler, K. C. Jeong, J. D. Driver, and M. D. Driver. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 2017. FCEF Report 2 for Florida Brahman: Genomic selection for tenderness, marbling, and reproductive tract score. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, p 1- 12.</li><br /> <li>Elzo, M. A., R. A. Mateescu, D. O. Rae, C. C. Carr, T. L. Scheffler, J. M. Scheffler, M. D. Driver, and J. D. Driver. 2018. Genomic-polygenic EBV for reproduction, ultrasound-carcass, and tenderness traits in the Florida multibreed Brahman-Angus population. 11^th World Conf. Gen. Appl. Livest. Prod., Auckland, New Zealand, February 11-16, 2018.</li><br /> <li>Fan, P. ^*, C. Nelson, J. D. Driver, M. A. Elzo, and K. C. Jeong. 2018. Bovine meconium microbiota varies with birthweight and influences the gut microbiota establishment during the early stage of life. Proc. 16^th AMCB Ann. Res. Symp., Crystal River, FL, April 6-7, 2018.</li><br /> <li>Fan, P.^*, L. Teng, C. Nelson, J. D. Driver, M. A. Elzo, and K. C. Jeong. 2018. Animal breed composition shapes the gut microbiota, and its effects on the host metabolic and immunological status. eLife J. (Submitted)</li><br /> <li>Hamblen, H.^*, A. Zolini, P.J. Hansen, P.A. Oltenacu, and R.G. Mateescu. 2018. Hair coat and thermoregulation in Brangus heifers. Plant and Animal Genome Meeting, San Diego, CA.</li><br /> <li>Hamblen, H. M.^*, J. D. Leal, M. A. Elzo, D. D. Johnson, C. C. Carr, T. Scheffler, J. M. Scheffler, and R. G. Mateescu. 2017. Association of a single nucleotide polymorphism in &mu;-calpain gene with Warner-Bratzler shear force in a crossbred Brahman-Angus population. AMSA 70^th Recip. Meat Conf., Texas A&amp;M University, College Station, TX, June 16-21, 2017.</li><br /> <li>Gobena M.^*, M. A. Elzo, and R. G. Mateescu.&nbsp; 2018. Population structure and genomic breed composition in an Angus-Brahman crossbred cattle population. Front. Genet. 9:90.</li><br /> <li>Leal, J. ^*, M. Elzo, D. Johnson, F. Pe&ntilde;agaricano, F. Rezende, and R. Mateescu. 2018.&nbsp;Structural equation analysis and whole genome scan for growth, carcass quality and meat quality in beef.&nbsp;UF Grad. Student Apprec. Week, Gainesville, April 03, 2018.</li><br /> <li>Leal J.D.^*, M.A. Elzo, D.D. Johnson, and R.G. Mateescu. 2018. Genome-Wide Association and Gene Enrichment Analyses of Meat Sensory Traits in a Crossbred Brahman-Angus Population. 11th World Congress on Genetics Applied to Livestock Production, Auckland, NZ., Volume Species - Bovine (beef) 1, 2018:124.</li><br /> <li>Leal, J.^*, M. Elzo, D. Johnson, and R. Mateescu. 2018.&nbsp;Genome-Wide Association and Gene Enrichment Analyses of Meat Sensory Traits&nbsp;in a Crossbred Brahman-Angus Population. P0428 26^th Plant and Animal Genome Conference, San Diego, CA, January 13-17, 2018.</li><br /> <li>Leal J. D.^*, M. A. Elzo, D. D. Johnson, T. L. Scheffler, J. M. Scheffler, and R. G. Mateescu. 2018. Association of &mu;-calpain and calpastatin polymorphisms with meat tenderness in a Brahman-Angus population. Front. Genet. 9:56.</li><br /> <li>Mateescu, R. A., Dikmen, S., Hansen, P., and M. A. Elzo.&nbsp;2018. Genetic parameters for body temperature under hot and humid conditions in an Angus-Brahman multibreed population. 11^th World Conf. Gen. Appl. Livest. Prod., Auckland, New Zealand, February 11-16, 2018.</li><br /> <li>Martinez, C. A. <a href="#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2">^*</a>, K. Khare, and M. A. Elzo. 2018. BIBI: Bayesian inference of breed composition. J. Anim. Breed. Genet. 135:54-61.</li><br /> <li>Martinez, C. A.^*, K. Khare, S. Rahman, and M. A. Elzo. 2017. Modelling correlated marker effects in genome-wide prediction via Gaussian concentration graph models.&nbsp;&nbsp;J. Theor. Biol. 437:67-78.</li><br /> <li>Martinez, C. A.^*, K. Khare, S. Rahman, and M. A. Elzo.&nbsp;&nbsp;2017. Gaussian covariance graph models accounting for correlated marker effects in genome-wide prediction. J. Anim. Breed. Genet. 134:412-421.</li><br /> <li>Mir, R. A.^*, T. A. Weppelmann, L. Teng, A. Kirpich, M. A. Elzo, J. D. Driver, and K. C. Jeong. 2018. Colonization Dynamics of Cefotaxime Resistant Bacteria in Beef Cattle Raised Without Cephalosporin Antibiotics. Front. Microbiol. 9:500.</li><br /> <li>Phelps, K.^*, D. Johnson, M. Elzo, C. Paulk, and J. Gonzalez. 2017. Effect of Brahman genetics on myofibrillar protein degradation, collagen crosslinking, and tenderness of the longissimus lumborum.&nbsp;&nbsp;J. Anim. Sci. 95:5397-5406.</li><br /> <li>Wright, S.^*, P. Ramos, D. D. Johnson, J. M. Scheffler, M. A. Elzo, R. G. Mateescu, A. L. Bass, C. C. Carr, and T. Scheffler. 2018. Brahman genetics influence muscle fiber properties, protein degradation, and tenderness in an Angus-Brahman multibreed herd. Meat Sci. 135:84-93.</li><br /> <li>Smith, T., C. D. Glenn, R. C. White, and W. E. White. 2017. Evaluation of udder and teat scores in beef cattle and the relationship to calf performance. (Abstr) Southern Section Animal Science meeting, Franklin, TN.</li><br /> </ol><br /> </ol><br /> <p><a href="#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1">^*</a> Graduate Student</p><br /> <p><a href="#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2"></a>&nbsp;</p>

Impact Statements

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Report Information

Participants

Name Institution Email
David Riley TAMU david-riley@tamu.edu

Rhonda Vann Mississippi State, MAFES rvanntx@gmail.com

Bob Godfrey Univ Virgin Islands rgodfre@uvi.edu

Jeremy Powell Univ of Arkansas jerpow@uark.edu

Trent Smith Mississippi State ts289@ads.msstate.edu

Bryan Kutz Univ of Arkansas bkutz@uark.edu

Joe West Univ of Georgia joewest@uga.edu

Jim Sanders TAMU j-sanders@tamu.edu

Raluca Mateescu University of Florida raluca@ufl.edu

Romdhane Rekaya University of Georgia rrekaya@uga.edu

Brief Summary of Minutes

Individual station progress was reported for current objectives.  Proposed project objectives were discussed relative to the pending (at that time) review.  Opportunities for identifying other contributing stations were discussed.

Accomplishments

Publications

Impact Statements

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