Semen for Export

[tonhou]

I have a proposal to give to the Dexter Society of my country down under (NZ) concerning the importing of semen. My question concerns the availability of semen for export and any recommendations across the board (colour, bred-up, different breed lines). I do need to know the availability of such semen (and if possibility costs) - this can be from any country that is known to export Dexter semen not just the US.
Hoping there may be some suggestions so I have some concrete information to give that may enhance the breed in my part of the world.

--Tony

[tonhou]

OK, I have found these bulls semen available for export from Belle Fourche Farm stud: www.dexters4u.com/2017/05/all-other-countries-2/

[cddexter]

Tony, a good question, and well worth asking...especially since you are asking offshore.

If you are looking for input, well...I've never been reticent .

I'd guess the outcome would depend on where Council and members want to take the breed. Is there a vision for the direction you'd like to see the national herd go? Overall, what traits need improving, and what background would work best? You'll have to consider height, muscle mass, udder attachment and yield, general conformation, and above all, consistency.

No sense bringing in semen from a one-off nice looking bull from a herd of mediocre animals and/or with little or no consistency, because that's what he'll throw. I know the first two bulls brought in from England were carefully chosen. I know the first live import of purebreds were carefully chosen. I know that in at least one case, an independent importer brought in semen from a low quality herd because it was available. Anyone can collect and sell--check out some of the bulls on the ADCA semen site and you'll see what I mean. Most of those aren't collected for export, but if they had been, do you really want to add their genetics just because they're available!

First, I'd figure out what traits I'm looking for, AND which traits I really don't want to add to the national herd.

Second, I'd see if there was any semen already available that would address those traits from both sides. Members won't be too motivated to cull the first generation of offspring if it doesn't work out.

Third, I'd look at consistency in the herd from which the bull comes. A one-off nice looking bull from a herd of mediocre animals is going to give you inconsistent results. Can you find existing semen from a herd where all the animals are pretty good quality? Belle Fourche is a safe place to start, imo.

Fourth, if you can't find something already available that meets these criteria, then I'd start looking at herds Council might approach with a proposal to collect semen for export to NZ. The owner could collect for internal use plus maybe other countries as well, to offset expenses.

I'll PM you with some thoughts.

Cheers, Carol Davidson.