Genex Cooperative, Inc. Holstein bulls derived from the GENESIS Cooperative Herd lead the industry in genomic accuracy. These 54 Co-op prefix bulls averaged a mere $1 drop in Lifetime Net Merit (LNM) as they transitioned from genomic-only genetic evaluations in August 2010 to daughter-proven genetic evaluations in December 2011 (minimum of 40 daughters). The average change among the 1,879 bulls industrywide over the same time period was a $22 decrease.

"The numbers prove GENESIS has powerful precision," explains Keith Heikes, Genex Vice President of Dairy Genetics & Global Alliance Development. "This precision is generated by unbiased testing of GENESIS females in commercial herds, extensive genomic testing of GENESIS cow families, and this cooperative's willingness to embrace new technologies."

GENESIS females must prove themselves in unbiased, commercial settings. They are put to work on real dairies devoid of special treatment. This allows for the identification of truly elite females and contributes to the credibility of their offspring.

Extensive genomic testing of GENESIS cow families also improves the accuracy of the genomic predictions of Co-op bulls. In most situations the bull's dam, granddam and siblings are all genomic tested.

"The cooperative's willingness to openly embrace new technologies, such as genomics, accelerates the impact of GENESIS," notes Heikes. "Technology has helped Genex build a herd that is at the forefront of genetic progress and delivers predictable results. By providing a large number of bulls with exceptionally accurate genomic proofs, GENESIS is a benefit to Genex members and customers."

Genex is a subsidiary of Cooperative Resources International (CRI). The CRI mission statement summarizes the goal of CRI: "To provide products and services as effectively as possible to maximize the profitability of members and customers worldwide while maintaining a strong cooperative."

2.01.2012