Edmonton, AB, July 09, 2025 – RDAR, a leader in results-driven agricultural research in Canada, announces an investment of $741,960 in Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership funding to expand a project for developing genomic tools for use by cattle producers. The Canadian Angus Association leads this project in collaboration with the Canadian Hereford Association and the Canadian Charolais Association.
The initial project, announced in March 2024, recruited 21 commercial Angus and Hereford producers (representing 10,000 head of cattle) as part of a four-year initiative to support commercial beef producers in making informed decisions about replacement heifer. These cattle were genotyped and followed across the beef production chain, linking performance at cow-calf operations, feedlots, and packing plants with the Canadian Angus Association's genomic evaluations for highly accurate genomic predictions for growth traits, carcass quality traits, and female reproduction traits.
Thanks to the program's early success and high demand, the project is now expanding to include the Canadian Charolais Association and the addition of a critical knowledge mobilization component through the hiring of staff dedicated to assisting producers in adopting these new tools.
The three breed associations are also working closely with AbacusBio, Zoetis, and TELUS Agriculture, with the genomic selection tool being integrated into a white-labeled version of TELUS Animal Record Management on farm management software for immediate producer access. Producers will retain data ownership, and all data collected will contribute to the development of genomic selection tools for both seedstock and commercial producers.
The expanded scope of this project now uniquely positions it to drive the adoption of genomic tools for producers throughout the cross-bred commercial sector, as well as promote demand for pure-bred seedstock bulls.
For Alberta's cow-calf producers, navigating volatile markets, along with escalating environmental scrutiny, beef genomics is not a futuristic luxury but an increasingly vital tool for economic survival and sustainable growth that will drive the province's cattle industry forward and retain its competitive advantage, and its place as a global leader in cattle genetics.
Speaking to today’s announcement, the Honourable Heath MacDonald, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, said: “Alberta beef is known far and wide for its exceptional quality and unbeatable taste. By using advanced tools like genomic selection, Alberta ranchers can continue to strengthen their reputation – ensuring their beef remains a favourite on tables around the world.”
Alberta Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, the Honourable RJ Sigurdson, stated, “Investment in beef genomics has proven to be valuable to our beef producers. RDAR extending the funding to include a broader reach of producer associations is important as we continue to seek the best ways for our beef producers to be competitive and sustainable in their operations and in world trade. Alberta is known for its beef and our government is pleased to be part of this funding that best positions our agriculture sector for continued partnership and growth.”
Dennis Serhienko, Breed Improvement Chair, Canadian Charolais Association, said, "In moving the Beef industry forward, a collaborative approach is essential in providing improved genetics and programs for producers to utilize. This joint project provides the framework for improved genetics for greater efficiencies and profitability for all beef producers."
Craig Scott, General Manager, Canadian Charolais Association, commented, "The opportunity to collaborate with two other leading breed associations on this project is a key step to advance the entire beef industry. Data and research will add value to seedstock producers and their valued customers in the commercial industry."
Dr. Mark Redmond, RDAR’s CEO, said, "Genomics offers a powerful suite of tools to empower Alberta's cow-calf producers in making more informed decisions. By investing in this area of research, RDAR is not only supporting enhanced profitability and sustainability of individual operations but is also helping the consolidation of the province's position as a global leader in the production of high-quality, responsibly raised beef."
Sustained investment in genomic research, the development of supporting infrastructure, and effective knowledge transfer will all contribute to supporting this project's outcomes. RDAR remains committed to ensuring support for these innovations through its strategic decision-making. Further benefits include a reduced carbon footprint for cattle and a more sustainable and efficient food chain for Canadian consumers.
About RDAR
RDAR is a not-for-profit organization mandated to target strategic investments in producer-led, results-driven agriculture research to power the profitability, productivity, competitiveness, and sustainability of agriculture in Alberta. RDAR's funding is provided by the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. For more information, please visit: www.rdar.ca
About Canadian Angus Association (CAA)
Canadian Angus Association (CAA) is a not-for-profit association incorporated under the Animal Pedigree Act that exists to preserve and expand the Angus breed for Canadian cattle producers and beef consumers. As Canada’s largest breed association, the Canadian Angus Association is committed to provide seedstock and commercial producers using Angus genetics the most robust technology towards producer profitability and industry sustainability.
About Canadian Hereford Association
The Canadian Hereford Association was founded in 1890 and is incorporated under the Animal Pedigree Act of Canda. It is one of Canada's oldest and largest beef breeds that represents nearly 1500 members with a mandate to ensure an accurate herdbook, promote Hereford cattle across Canada and internationally, provide genetic improvement programs and youth development initiatives.
About Canadian Charolais Association
Canadian Charolais Association has served as one of Canada’s major beef breed associations since 1959. Charolais cattle have earned the reputation of producing cows who can handle a range of environmental conditions and bulls who increase the size and ruggedness of any herd. On the rail, Charolais genetics increase total red meat yield. Based in Airdrie, the association continually strives to provide its members and commercial customers with up-to-date technology, including genetic selection tools.
About the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada's agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5-billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories. alberta.ca
Media Contact:
For all enquiries, please contact:
Richard Hilton, Manager, Stakeholder Relations and Communications
richard.hilton@rdar.ca