Animal Genetics

USDA/FAS, in conjunction with U.S.

Dairy Genetic Industry representatives coordinated a series of seminars for the Bulgarian Dairy Industry in Sofia, Bulgaria.

The seminars covered issues such an overview of the U.S. model for dairy genetic research, an analysis of the differing roles of the U.S. government and the private sector, the functions and responsibilities of U.S. breeding associations and examples of how the U.S. farmer interacts with the federal and trade association dairy genetics programs.

The goal of these seminars is to create the regulatory and commercial environment that encourages the use and market growth of high-quality livestock genetics and improve the import market for U.S. livestock genetics .

The seminars were also followed up by a study visit by Bulgarian Industry and Government representatives to study and meet with U.S. breeding associations.