Anecdotal evidence is that AI conception rates in elk and wapiti have fallen over recent years; the society wants to turn the tide.
As a start, society members will be surveyed on their AI practice and after that veterinary advice sought. Last year North American livestock reproductive technologist Martin Wenkoff provided valuable information on AI best practice, which had been a revelation for some.
“He has a strict programme and procedures he sticks to and for some of us it was a real eye-opener,” EWSNZ secretary Tony Pullar said.
Anecdotal evidence is that AI conception rates in elk and wapiti have fallen over recent years; the society wants to turn the tide.
Wenkoff highlighted the importance of attention to detail such as during the collection and storage of semen to ensure high quality.
“He believes the time between collection and processing of the semen is crucial to the outcome, so there could be chances for improvement in that respect. Also, a high standard of hygiene at CIDR time is also crucial along with weaning on CIDR day as well as strict cow selection for the AI mob.”
Although it was now too late to follow a lot of Wenkoff’s recommendations for this year’s AI season, his advice would be followed where possible, Pullar said.
“We’ll have a better picture of where we are in June when we scan. If we see some early improvement after following some of Martin’s advice we’ll at least have a year’s lead time to really fine tune the programme and implement permanent improvements.”
More: The Deer Farmer
