TYPE CLASSIFICATION 2000

DRAFT October 15, 1999

Editor's Note (to lessen the chances of misunderstanding the intent):
Information in here is from a combination of descriptions that were developed in 1990 (i.e. the last time the program was revised), Brian's somewhat naiive understanding which he has gleened from meetings with the classifiers, and from descriptions Sandy had in the manual she had started. Where descriptions for traits existed from 1990, these were generally used. Descriptions from Sandy were used to describe a number of traits that were not previously described. Other traits are yet to be described. In all cases, we are counting on the classifiers to take a critical look at the descriptions and fill in the gaps, provide suggestions to make it clearer, and most importantly, ensure that this is consistent with what they actually have been doing. The intention of the draft at this point is simply make it easier for the classifiers to do this. Also, it is important to note that there is no intended fundamental change to the program. Rather, the intention is to make the existing program more understandable, and to provide guidelines on how to use the information effectively. With an increased understanding, it is likely that some fundamental changes will be made in the future. However, it is unlikely that a concensus can be reached on what these changes should be unless and until there is general understanding of what is happening today.

INTRODUCTION

The Canadian Goat Society (CGS) Classification program is designed to help breeders identify the strengths and weaknesses of individual animals. The program collects data for the genetic evaluation of sires which provides information to the breeder on a sire's strengths and weaknesses. Breeders can use this genetic information to select sires which will improve the overall conformation of their herds, or to concentrate on specific areas of conformation which a herd needs to improve the most. To a lesser extent, breeders can also determine the desirable mating between individual sires and dams, but results for individual animals will be quite variable.

In celebration of the year 2000, CGS has developed this members guide to help breeders better understand and utilize classification information to improve their herds, and ultimately to improve the national breed. The classification form has also been modified to include additional explanation of the individual linear traits. This information is explained in detail in this members guide.

Before getting into the details of individual classifications, it is important for breeders to have some general understanding of what influences body conformation. Specifically, how important is genetics versus management, and what can realistically be expected from genetic decisions such as sire selection, compared to other management decisions such as hoof trimming. The guide therefore starts with some general information about genetic and management effects on body conformation. This is followed by the details for each of the eight linear traits that are scored, and how the individual linear scores are used to arrive at an overall mammary system score and the final score. The rules that the breeders must follow are listed as well. Finally, the guide will include explanations of genetic evaluations and specific help on how to make good use of this information.