JerseyGenome was unveiled at the JerseyJET Open day held on the farm of Tim & Gayle Sneddon on Thursday 11th February.

This joint venture effectively sees JerseyJET and Jersey Genes combined into one package and offers significant opportunities for participants.

In a nutshell, approximately 150 animals will be identified to receive Genomic testing in April this year. From this group a subset will be identified (through their genomic and ancestry data) to be included in an open nucleus group. Each participant will remain on their home farm to be tested for the season. They will receive 5 herd tests, will be TOP & Classified with their contemporaries and be weighed twice during the season.

The aim of JerseyGenome is ultimately to generate sires that will enhance the future of the breed by marrying genomic selection with the skills and experience of members breeding to identify bull mothers.

In the middle of this issue of the JerseyNews is the pamphlet which explains the scheme in more detail and also included is a letter from the Council outlining several key areas – especially in terms of identifying the animals which will potentially be included.

This is an exciting opportunity not only for you as breeders and for your association but for the breed as a whole – we encourage you to be a part of it.