In the case of trans-cervical AI, a producer can receive specialized training and eventually be able to breed his own ewes. AI is still in its infancy in the U.S. sheep industry. Semen prices are relatively high, and the industry still doesn't do the best job of identifying genetical superior stock. But there are a lot of positive developments that should help to make AI a more viable technology as we move into the 21 st century. Did you know .
Artificial insemination is one of the oldest forms of applied reproductive technology.
The Russians pioneered AI research in birds, horses, cattle and sheep and began to make widespread use of AI in cattle in 1931. AI was first performed on cattle in the United States in 1937, and 1991 data indicate that 70 percent of the dairy cow population is bred artificially. Chilled semen is generally used in swine, and it is estimated that half of the U.S. sow herd is bred artificially. Maryland Sheep News.