Tuesday 17th November 2020
The Hub sites and the Next Generation Low Input site are accepting rams this season.
How to submit a ram:
Forms must be received by Friday 11 December.
Nomination outcome will be communicated (by 21 December) and successful owners provided with a Ram Supply Agreement.
Hub site
The focus for this progeny test is to maximise connectedness across the New Zealand flock, so preference is given to rams that are widely connected. There is no cost to rams entering the Hub test, because of its industry-good significance.
These three questions will help determine if your stud/breeder group meets the criteria:
If you answer “yes” to all three questions, consider applying for the Hub.
Even if you have “no” answers, you are welcome to submit a ram on a “pay for entry” basis. The cost is $5000 for a terminal ram and $15,000 for a maternal ram – the direct cost of testing a ram in the Hub.
Low input site
Ram selection for the Next Generation Low Input site is less competitive than the Hub site. As a driver for industry change, preference will be given to flocks currently recording, or who show intent to record Low input traits in their own flocks. These traits include (but are not limited to): Dag Score, Parasite Resistance, Tail Traits and Methane.
In addition to the per-ram fee, you also meet the costs of animal health testing and transport.
*No cost if your ram is accepted through the submission process. A ram can also be entered on a “pay for entry” basis. See “Hub site ram selection” above for details and costs.
Important dates
17 November - Expressions of interest open
11 December - Expressions of interest close
21 December - Applicants notified of success or otherwise
Reporting
If you have rams in the progeny test, you receive the following reports annually:
April - Rams enter test (mating)
July - Pregnancy scanning
October - Docking
January - Weaning
February - Processing
For more information about the ram submission and selection process, email: info@blnzgenetics.com