Abstract
Continued research of new and emerging technologies in reproduction and genomics and transfer of these technologies to our nation’s beef cattle industry is currently challenged. Funding for research to support advances in these disciplines, the linkages between them, and their collective economic impact will be essential to improve efficiencies of production, given the anticipated growth in global population and the declining availability of earth’s resources. As budgets to support research and transfer of technology via Extension have dwindled, many states lack the necessary critical mass to support research of new technologies, and as importantly, effective transfer of these technologies to industry stakeholders. Simply put, land grant universities in states across the United States are now categorized as “have and have-nots” when it comes to research infrastructure and qualified extension personnel. Further, there is concern regarding the limited number of veterinarians that specialize in animal reproduction and genomics across the United States and implications for veterinary student training and continuing education offerings for veterinary practitioners in the field. Veterinarians serve as a key information source for US livestock producers and are essential in facilitating the adoption of various reproductive and genomic technologies. Collectively, these considerations form the rationale for a USDA-NIFA funded project with matching support from the University of Missouri to create a National Center for Applied Reproduction and Genomics (NCARG) in Beef Cattle. NCARG will serve as a new model for research and technology transfer wherein industry participants at all levels and from across the US are afforded the opportunity to access information and acquire new skills that will improve reproductive management and genetic makeup of our nation’s livestock enterprise.