Case Study: Optimising Dormer Genetics – Insights from Gelukspruit

Case Study: Optimising Dormer Genetics – Insights from Gelukspruit

By: Willem Struwig

Introduction

Farm Gelukspruit, located near Edenville in the Free State, serves as the cornerstone of Anmatth Dormers' innovative breeding programme. Since its establishment in 2022, this farm has become a testing ground for genetic optimisation and sustainable farming practices. Through careful selection, data-driven decisions, and strategic investments, Gelukspruit has demonstrated how Dormer sheep can thrive in the challenging South African context.

This case study explores the strategies and insights gained from Gelukspruit, providing a roadmap for farmers aiming to optimise their Dormer genetics.

Challenges Faced at Gelukspruit

When Anmatth Dormers acquired Gelukspruit, the team identified several challenges:

1. Varying climatic conditions: The Free State’s harsh winters and hot summers required animals capable of adapting to these extremes.

2. Rising feed costs: Increasing input costs highlighted the need for efficient feed-to-weight conversion.

3. Maintaining genetic diversity: Ensuring a balance between superior traits and avoiding inbreeding posed a significant challenge.

Strategies for Optimising Genetics

1. Sourcing High-Quality Breeding Stock

The foundation of success at Gelukspruit was the acquisition of resilient breeding stock. Female lambs were sourced from the Eastern Cape, renowned for producing hardy, adaptable sheep. In addition, exceptional rams from top Dormer bloodlines, such as JB18-0016 (Ketting) and DR22-0022 (Checkmate), were introduced to the flock.

Insight: Starting with proven genetics ensures a strong foundation for future breeding success.

2. Prioritising Reproductive Fitness

A key focus was selecting ewes with high reproductive efficiency and culling those that failed to meet standards. At Gelukspruit, only ewes with consistent lambing records and high weaning indexes were retained. This approach not only boosted productivity but also improved overall flock health.

Takeaway: Reproductive fitness is the cornerstone of a resilient and efficient flock.

3. Leveraging Data for Selection

Gelukspruit implemented Phase A Growth Tests, recording lamb weights at 100 days to identify the best-performing individuals. These data points allowed the team to pinpoint lambs with superior growth rates and cull weaker performers, ensuring only the strongest genetics were propagated.

Pro Tip: Use data-driven decisions to identify top-performing animals and refine breeding strategies.

4. Balancing Genetic Diversity

To avoid inbreeding, Gelukspruit adopted a structured breeding programme, rotating rams and carefully tracking lineage. Rams from different bloodlines were paired with select ewes to maintain genetic diversity while enhancing desired traits like carcass quality and disease resistance.

Insight: A balanced genetic pool prevents long-term health and fertility issues.

5. Sustainable Farming Practices

Given the rising costs of feed, Gelukspruit focused on optimising pasture utilisation. Rotational grazing and strategic feed supplementation ensured that Dormer sheep received balanced nutrition while keeping costs manageable.

Key Takeaway: Efficient feed management enhances weight gain and reduces input costs.

Results Achieved

1. Increased Lambing Rates

Within a year, Gelukspruit reported a significant improvement in lambing percentages, with a higher number of lambs weaning successfully. This was directly attributed to the rigorous selection of ewes and data-driven decisions.

2. Improved Growth Rates

The 100-day growth indexes consistently showed a higher average daily weight gain across the flock, reflecting the success of the breeding programme.

3. Resilience to Local Conditions

The sourced breeding stock adapted exceptionally well to the Free State’s climate, with low mortality rates and fewer health issues reported.

Lessons for Dormer Breeders

1. Invest in Genetics: Start with high-quality rams and ewes to establish a strong genetic foundation.

2. Use Data Effectively: Regular growth tests and record-keeping are invaluable tools for improving flock performance.

3. Focus on Reproductive Fitness: Retain ewes with consistent lambing records and high weaning indexes.

4. Prioritise Sustainability: Optimise feed and land use to reduce costs and improve productivity.

Conclusion

Gelukspruit has become a beacon of genetic excellence and sustainable farming in the Dormer industry. By combining superior genetics, data-driven strategies, and a commitment to sustainability, Anmatth Dormers has set a new standard for Dormer sheep farming in South Africa.

As we continue to refine our breeding programme, the lessons learned at Gelukspruit will serve as a blueprint for Dormer farmers nationwide, ensuring the breed's continued resilience and success in diverse conditions.