Ferg’s thoughts on putting a dollar value on genetic change

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Head Shepherd
Ferg’s thoughts on putting a dollar value on genetic change
Aug 16, 2026 Season 2026 Episode 295
Mark Ferguson

What is a trait actually worth to a farming business?

Ferg has spent much of his career talking about the value of genetics, but we haven't always been very good at putting that value into real dollar terms that apply to individual farm businesses.

In this episode of Ferg's Thoughts, he explains how we're planning on working out the dollar value of genetic performance with the use of our new tool, neXtProfit, 

Ferg explains that it's not as simple as putting a price on an extra lamb or another kilogram of wool, because each change has a whole range of small on-farm impacts like the extra feed and pasture that additional animal will consume, and the flow-on effects on labour and farm management. Or the extra chemical and labour required for a daggier animal. 

Tune in to hear how we're planning on helping farmers put a dollar value on genetic change. 

Head Shepherd is brought to you by neXtgen Agri International Limited

We help livestock farmers get the most out of the genetics they farm with. Get in touch with us if you would like to hear more about how we can help you do what you do best: info@nextgenagri.com.

Thanks to our sponsors at MSD Animal Health and Allflex, Heiniger Australia and New Zealand, and ProWay Livestock Equipment. Please consider them when making product choices, as they are instrumental in enabling us to bring you this podcast each week.

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