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You've heard that the type of Merino that you run profoundly affects your long term profit. When managing Merinos from different flocks together as a single mob, we see large differences in their production. Because these sheep have been managed together since birth, it is reasonaonable to assume that most of the variation is due to genetic differences. How do I ensure that the genetics of my flock are in the top 10% available?The answer lies in your definition of what is a "top sheep". This implies that you have a long-term breeding goal for the future of your flock - the top sheep will be those that best meet this goal. For example, let's assume that you wish to maximise the fleece value of your sheep. Mackinnon Project consultants can assist you develop a breeding program that meets this goal and will breed sheep suited to your environment and management. When aiming to maximise fleece value, here are some questions you should ask: 1. What things (or sheep characteristics) will affect my long term profit? 2. Which of these can we influence by genetic selection? 3. What is the best way to identify animals with the best "combination" of genes for all these characteristics? Fact sheets To answer these questions, we have produced a series of "Fact Sheets":
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