OUR HISTORY
In 2000, Quebec joined Ontario in the use of its genetic evaluation program.However, as of 2006, all Canadian provinces had access to the program, in collaboration with the Centre d’expertise en production ovine du Québec (CEPOQ), which deployed it. The name of GenOvis was used only in Quebec until 2011, but then Ontario joined with the program previously known as SFIP. Subsequently, the program experienced two major renewals in 2011 and 2016. Along the way, two industry organizations joined the GenOvis program, Ontario Sheep Farmers (OSF) and Canadian Sheep Breeders’ Association (CSBA). Today, the GenOvis steering committee includes CEPOQ, OSF, CSBA and the Center for Genetic Improvement of Livestock (CGIL of the University of Guelph). A resource from the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is also active in supporting the group.
ABOUT US
The GenOvis program is an on-farm sheep genetic evaluation program for all Canadian users (purebred sheep breeders, commercial producers or dairy farmers) supported by CEPOQ staff. The program makes it possible to effectively evaluate the genetic value of sheep based on important economic traits as expressed by relatives and other animals within the breed or cross.
OUR HISTORY
Since 2000, CEPOQ has been supporting Canadian sheep breeders in improving their sheep through the GenOvis genetic program. Today, GenOvis is a partnership between CEPOQ, OSF, CSBA and CGIL.
GENETIC TEAM
The GenOvis users support team is made up of 3 staff-members from the Centre d’expertise en production ovine du Québec (CEPOQ).
GENOVIS MEAT MODULE
Since 2000, the GenOvis program has been assisting sheep farmers to produce high quality lambs for consumers.
GENOVIS DAIRY MODULE
Since 2014, dairy sheep farmers have access to genetic values that enable them to improve the milk production and milk quality of their ewes.
GENOVIS PARTNERSHIP VISION
CGIL (Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Université de Guelph, Ontario) is proud to provide and support the genetic evaluation system employed by GenOvis. This allows GenOvis users to make their selection and management decisions based on sound and updated genetic evaluation methods.
CSBA (Canadian Sheep Breeders’ Association) is proud to be involved in the partnership regarding GenOvis program governance and extension. This allows our members to access genetic values that assist in their management decisions and to express their needs regarding GenOvis developments.
OSF (Ontario Sheep Farmers) is a proud partner of GenOvis and is actively involved in the program’s governance and extension. GenOvis is a tool that our farmers can use to assist with management decision and improve flock productivity and profitability.
CEPOQ (Centre d’expertise en production ovine du Québec) is proud to be involved in GenOvis and serve as an enrolment and extension agent for the partners. GenOvis is an essential tool for the Canadian sheep producers to benefit from a productive flock selected to both meet their needs and those of the consumers.