Gene Plan is basically an "information highway" for breeders and users of Limousin genetics. This includes the exchange of pedigree information between each individual member and CLA, between CLA and "AGI" (Angus Genetics Inc.) and between CLA and all users of Limousin genetics through the International Limousin Genetic Evaluation Manual. The Gene Plan Program allows genetic evaluation of groups of cattle based on performance data.
Gene Plan is a multi-stage program that requires breeders to submit data over the course of the year, after birth weights, weaning weights, and yearling weights have been taken. This data should include information on all of the breeder's animals. While information can be submitted at any time, the CLA strongly suggests that data be reported immediately following each phase of production. As producers submit information, the CLA processes the data and returns forms for submitting the next phase of production, as well as, ranks, indices, and EPD's on a Weaning/Yearling Report and Weaning/Yearling Sire Summary.
Gene Plan data is submitted twice per year to the International Cattle Evaluation program at "AGI". Performance data from calves does not contribute to the calculation of EPD's for parents of the calves until it is processed through the International Limousin Genetic Evaluation at "AGI". Also, in order for the accuracies of EPD's to be upgraded from predicted "P" to a numeric value, the University of Georgia must evaluate performance and group information. Important dates to remember are June 1st and November 1st. These are the cut-off dates for data to be submitted and processed error-free, in order to be included in the next International evaluation.
Genetic improvement is for people who want to selectively breed livestock. EPD's are simply a summarization of pedigree and performance information submitted by Limousin breeders. Both can be achieved by utilizing the CLA Gene Plan Performance Program.
Active members of the CLA Association may take advantage of this beneficial program by contacting our office, request to be enrolled in the Gene Plan Performance Program and have the forms sent to them.