Why we use Genomics

For the past two generations at Kentish Downs, we have seen just what genomics testing can do for the progression of our flock's performance. Knowing the genetic merit of animals at a young age can guide selection and breeding decisions and shorten generation intervals in the flock.

A significant investment has been made in DNA testing all sheep to assist in driving genetic gain in our flocks' genetics by increasing the accuracy of ASBVs, providing accurate pedigree, and genetic benchmarking of our flock.

There is no doubt that using genomics testing along with visual and ASBVs that we will take KD's flocks' genetics to the elite performance level in a matter of years, as opposed to decades if we relied upon visual assessment only," Karen Wilson said.