The Red & White dairy breed sector continues on a rapid growth curve, according to statistics provided by the National Association of Animal Breeders. Over the past ten years, Red & White semen sales have more than doubled.
The 2012 U.S. Red & White / Red Carrier semen sales worldwide set a new record of 793,244 units, whereas 2002 sales were 326,333 total units.
The influence of U.S. daughter proven sires and genomic tested young sires has contributed to this increase in sales. Several other factors have added to the rapid growth. There have been numerous high classifying cows in the red population that have also excelled in production.
In 2005, Lavender Ruby Redrose-Red (EX-96-2E) was the first and only Red & White cow to be designated Supreme Champion at World Dairy Expo. A world record of one million dollars was paid via public auction for a Red & White dairy cow in 2008, RHW Regiment Apple-Red (EX-95).
Growing interest in foreign countries for U.S. red genetics has resulted in a much higher tally than domestic sales. Total Red & White / Red Carrier semen sales continue to command the No. 3 position in the dairy breed sector, behind Holstein and Jersey.
To learn more about the breed attributes and the growing demand for Red & Whites, visit the Red & White Dairy Cattle Association website or call (608) 676-4900. PD
—Information from Fred Hendricks
