Utilization of Genomic Information for the Sheep Industry Introduction

Sheep & Goat Research Journal, Volume 27, 2012, Special Research Symposium Sym 1 During the ASI Annual Convention in Scottsdale, Ariz., January 26, 2012, a research symposium Utilization of Genomic Information for the Sheep Industry was co-sponsored by the American Sheep Industry Association (ASI) and the American Sheep and Goat Center (ASGC). The Symposium Program Planning Committee consisted of Paul Rodgers, ASI; Will R. Getz, Fort Valley State University; and Larry R. Miller, ASGC, who also served as Moderator. The symposium was somewhat different from previous ASI research symposia, in that it more comprehensively focused on a single topic, involved speakers from different perspectives and engaged participants in more indepth discussion. Especially in the past two decades, volumes of new genomic and genetic information have been generated by means of new research approaches, techniques, and tools. This information created a challenge to harness, interpret, and utilize the wealth of new genomic/genetic information by drawing upon disciplines, such as biochemistry, genetics, statistics, computer science, animal breeding, and several other sciences associated with the biology of the animal. The speakers addressed the symposium topic from the following points of view, reflecting their different expertise and experiences: Genomic Information Available for Use by the Sheep Industry, Noelle E. Cockett, Utah State University; Application of Genomic Information for Improvement of Quantitative Traits, David R. Notter, Virginia Tech University; Utilization and Potential of Estimates of Genetic Value from an Industry Perspective, David L. Thomas, University of Wisconsin-Madison; Utilization from a Producer Perspective, Chase T. Hibbard, sheep producer, Helena, Mont.; and Genetic Selection Specifically Utilized for Evaluating the Introduction of Outside Breeds and Measuring Their Potential, John Helle, sheep producer, Dillon, Mont. Research Symposium Utilization of Genomic Information for the Sheep Industry