The University of Illinois received a $300,000 Project Grant award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) program. The grant will fund research to develop novel image-based biometric body traits that can accurately predict feed and water efficiency in cattle. The goal is to integrate these new phenotypic traits, along with genomic data, into cattle breeding selection programs to accelerate genetic progress for improved feed and water efficiency. This will empower producers to breed more efficient cattle, reducing production costs and environmental impact while maintaining high livestock productivity. The project period is from April 1, 2025 to March 31, 2027.
Generated 3/4/25, 2:35 AM