In this research project we propose to calculate the costs and benefits of each reproductive technology, per lamb weaned, with a heavy focus on artificial insemination as it is the most used breeding technology in the wool industry. Primary use cases will be for stud and commercial growers. Different factors such as, accessibility to superior rams and/or their semen (for AI), flock composition and production decisions that might affect the costs and benefits of the technology will be assessed. Among these decisions the fate of weaned lambs, wethers, rams, and ewes we feel is the most important.
Data pertaining to the costs and benefits of each technology will be gathered from artificial breeding companies, stud/commercial breeders, and historical wool market information. These data will be used to generate appropriate economic models which will inform optimal production decisions.
This research will directly involve contact with various stakeholders within the wool industry. Stud and commercial breeders, artificial breeding companies, market analysts at Australian Wool Innovation, agricultural consultancy business and of course the research sector. The outcomes of this research will be published in a peer reviewed journal and be available for presentation at industry field days. The connections made during this project for myself will be instrumental in giving me a foothold to start my career in the Australian wool industry.