Artificial insemination (AI) of livestock is not a new practice, but an article published by the University of Missouri in June 1939 is probably one of the first to detail the use of AI on the dairy cattle at the university’s experimental farm. According to the article, AI was first used on the farm’s dairy cows in July 1937.
“During the past 18 months, this method of impregnating dairy cows has given such encouraging results that the practice has been adopted by approximately 100 dairy farmers in Missouri. Breeders co-operating with the Department of Dairy Husbandry have supplied records showing nearly 500 cows settled in calf with an average service rate comparing [favourably] with natural service,” the article stated.
According to the article, the practice went back to the late 1700s, and was used in Russia by the Tsar in the early 1900s to impregnate dairy cows on a stud farm. From 1923, the practice had become more widespread in Russia. In 1930, almost 20 000 cows had been impregnated using AI. By 1938, this number had risen to 1,5 million cows, which was around 5% of Russia’s total dairy cow population.
“The Department of Dairy Husbandry, University of Missouri, first used artificial breeding in the spring of 1937 when a valuable proved sire, Campus Aaggie Segis Sultan 586515, sustained a thigh injury which prevented his serving a cow. Semen was obtained by massage and several cows inseminated.”
Since then, AI has become an increasingly important feature of stud and commercial
This story is from the June 09, 2023 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 09, 2023 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Care of newborn lambs and goat kids
It may be a relatively simple task to successfully get rams to mate and for females to give birth, but the first couple of weeks of the life of a lamb or kid is a crucial period in livestock farming.
Don't ignore ChatGPT for one more day
If you are not using the free artificial intelligence app you’re missing out on assistance from the most potent personal assistant you could ever have.
Afternoon tea at the famous Mount Nelson
Brian Berkman says there’s not much to beat afternoon drinks and snacks served in the gardens at the newly refurbished Mount Nelson.
Starting a small-farm vegetable project: Part 4
Bill Kerr says that increasing the organic and microbe content of your soil is the first step to ensuring healthier crops and greater yields.
Luxurious and powerful workhorse at a great price
The new JAC T9 is certainly great value for money by offering features and driver comforts that compare with brands twice its retail price.
Are there solutions to antibiotic resistance, or are we running out of time to find new antibiotics?
Free State regional sales manager for Alltech, discusses how farmers can mitigate the use of antibiotics in cattle.
Dream stud Merinos
This stud was winning awards and attracting top prices, thanks to a quality sire imported from Australia eight years ago.
Choosing a breed that goes along with your lifestyle
Jarred Hodgson gives farmers advice on choosing the dog breed best suited to them, their families and operations. Although only four specific breeds are highlighted here, other breeds can also be considered.
Wheat production in South Africa
Master’s in Integrated Pest Management candidate at North-West University Zunel van Eeden explores the increasing importance of wheat production and the challenges experienced on the way to harvest time.
Sorghum essential for South Africa
Magda du Toit discusses Grain SA’s focus on sorghum as an important grain crop to cultivate, research and develop further in the country.
