New Zealand’s Beef + Lamb Genetics runs SIL (BLG). SIL is our national sheep database with extremely powerful processing capabilities. Lambing and trait records from many years (if available) as well as genomic information in some cases are included in each of SIL’s highly sophisticated genetic analyses. The resulting Indexes and Breeding Values are powerful tools which allow ram breeders and their clients to select animals with the best genes for the traits that are most relevant to their breeding operation.
We are a Sheep Improvement Limited (SIL) Bureau (licensed operator). SIL is in the process of being upgraded to a new system, nProve.
SIL/nProve indexes are flexible. They consist of whichever traits are of most importance to each individual breeder and their ram clients. These traits may include, but are not limited to, some combination of Reproduction, Survival, Lamb Growth, Adult size, Meat Yield and Wool. Each of these traits can be expressed in cents. They are a function of the estimated net profit, after all the costs of production are accounted for, of a ram’s progeny compared to the progeny of other rams. In a maternal flock this benefit is cumulative over time, just like compound interest in the bank.
SIL/nProve is a tool for sheep breeders and their ram clients – an essential tool for breeders wishing to take the sheep industry into the future with confidence. But it is only a tool – good stockmanship is also paramount.
What can we do for you?
- We explain why it is important to be part of the SIL database, discuss which records are of most benefit to your breeding situation, when to record them and how.
- We enter stud pedigree and performance data into the national database. Most breeders choose to email electronic files of their flock’s pedigree and trait information to us. It can be downloaded files from the indicator for their scales, entered on an excel spreadsheet or collected by other electronic means.
- For breeders who choose to key their data onto an excel spreadsheet, we provide a pre numbered file with the appropriate headings for them to complete.
- We work with each breeder individually to ensure the indexes, breeding values and other information on their reports are relevant to their breeding objective. Reports are tailor made to each individual’s requirements and are sent after each set of data is received.
- Some breeders choose to access their flock’s data using a new online tool recently developed by BLGNZ called nProve for Breeders. We set up relevant templates for their flock/s and provide online training in the use of this app.
- We interpret reports and advise on selection criteria if required.
- Newsletters with “hot tips” for recording are sent to each of our breeders three times per year.
Work with us to collect the information that will enable you to identify your animals with the most productive genes.
