The selection of replacement breeding stock needs to be planned. Records will show which gilts came from the best litters an matings, so that this can be considered along with individual growth and leanness. Good records and a consistent plan are needed before the best boars can be used in the mating program. These boars sometimes have to be ordered several weeks ahead, before the sow to be bred has even farrowed. Records are needed to predict farrowing dates and identify the best sows.
Genetic improvement takes time.
The same plan has to be followed for several generations. Carcass High Low Growth Medium Medium Reproductive Low High 4. Good management Genetics defines the potential performance of the animals, but management determines how close the animals come to meeting their genetic potential. Use production records to identify areas where management can be improved. It is not necessary to wait until management is perfect before using AI, but it is important to be aware of management effects.