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Author: Sammi Schrag

Why Now Is the Time to Book Your Donors: Spring IVF Trends at 605

29 April 2025
Sammi Schrag
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Categories: Blog, Education

As the pastures green up and the days get longer, spring isn’t just a season of growth—it’s the prime window for advancing your herd’s genetic potential. At 605 Sires + Donors, we’re seeing a strong uptick in IVF demand, and for good reason. If you’re looking to hit fall and winter calving targets, now’s the time to get your donors on the schedule.

🕓 Spring Slots Fill Fast

From Colorado to Nebraska to right here in South Dakota, our partner satellite centers are booking out quickly. Whether you’re planning to work with Madison Genetics, Preferred Genetics, Nikkel Bros, or the Pratt Family, availability is limited—and our team is already seeing maxed-out weeks. Early booking means better options, more flexibility, and less stress.

🔬 IVF Efficiency at Its Peak

Spring conditions allow donors to thrive. With less stress from harsh weather, improved nutrition, and longer daylight hours, donor cows tend to respond better during this time of year. That translates to stronger oocyte yields, smoother aspirations, and more embryos per collection.

📈 Planning Ahead for Fall and Winter Calves

Embryos created this spring will directly impact your fall and winter calving schedules. For seedstock producers and competitive breeders, this is the time to build up a pipeline of elite calves that will hit the ground running when market attention peaks.

✅ Why 605?

With our on-site IVF lab in Marion, SD, reverse sorting capabilities, and streamlined scheduling through trusted satellite partners, we’re positioned to help you move quickly and confidently. Our team is ready to walk you through the process—whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth.

📞 Ready to schedule?
Call the 605 office at 605-925-7473 or visit 605sires.com to lock in your date.

#SpringIVF #605Sires #GeneticPlanning #DonorSuccess #LivestockReproduction #BreedingSeason #PrecisionBreeding

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Understanding IVF & Embryo Transfer: The Future of Bovine Reproduction

4 March 2025
Sammi Schrag
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Categories: Blog, Education

At 605 Sires + Donors, we are committed to providing cutting-edge reproductive solutions for breeders looking to optimize their genetic programs. Two of the most effective reproductive technologies available today are In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Embryo Transfer (ET). While both methods offer significant advantages, understanding the differences can help breeders choose the best approach for their herd.

IVF vs. Embryo Transfer: Key Differences

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

IVF allows breeders to create embryos using oocytes (unfertilized eggs) collected directly from donor cows or heifers. These oocytes are fertilized in a controlled lab environment and then transferred fresh into recipients or frozen for later use.

IVF Advantages:

  • Averages 4-6 embryos per collection
  • Can be performed on pregnant cows up to 120 days
  • Suitable for virgin heifers and infertile cows
  • Shorter procedure intervals (every 14 days)
  • Uses less semen per donor (a single straw can fertilize multiple donors)
  • Compatible with sexed and reverse-sorted semen

IVF Disadvantages:

  • Slightly lower pregnancy rates than ET (6-7% lower for fresh transfers, 10% lower for frozen)
  • Slightly higher cost per embryo

Embryo Transfer (ET)

ET involves hormonally treating donor cows to induce ovulation of multiple follicles. The donor is then inseminated using artificial breeding, and embryos are collected via a non-surgical procedure seven days later.

ET Advantages:

  • Averages 5-6 embryos per collection
  • Higher pregnancy rates than IVF in both fresh and frozen transfers
  • Lower cost per embryo for high-producing donors

ET Disadvantages:

  • Can only be done every 45-60 days
  • Limited availability of sexed semen
  • Requires more semen per donor
  • Higher boarding costs
  • Not available for pregnant cows

What is Reverse Sorting?

Reverse sorting is an advanced technique that allows breeders to sort previously frozen conventional semen into male or female sperm cells before fertilization. This gender-specific approach ensures breeders can produce embryos tailored to their herd’s goals.

The process, licensed by ST Genetics, takes place on the day after Ovum Pick-Up (OPU) in our Marion, SD, embryo lab. Using flow cytometry, sperm cells are sorted based on their fluorescence to achieve ~90% accuracy in gender selection. This technology provides more control over breeding outcomes while maintaining semen quality and effectiveness in IVF procedures.

Donor Housing: A State-of-the-Art Facility

Our brand-new donor housing facility is now complete! Designed to maximize donor health and comfort, the facility includes:

  • Small group housing (5-12 cows per pen)
  • Loafing shed & fence-line feeding system
  • Spacious grass traps for exercise and a natural environment

This new facility ensures that donors are managed in optimal conditions for successful breeding and embryo collection.

Pregnant Recipients Now Available

Through our partnership with Madison Genetics in Madison, SD, we offer high-quality pregnant recipients (recips) for purchase. Each recipient cow is health-checked, screened for disposition, structure, and body condition, ensuring top-tier genetics for breeding programs.

📞 Contact: Cody Williams (605-695-0931) or Sheryl Vanhove (605-480-4186) for more information.

Semen Options at 605 Sires + Donors

We provide a variety of semen options to meet your breeding needs:

  • Conventional Semen
  • Sexed Semen
  • CSS Certified Semen
  • Fresh Semen

With advancements in reproductive technology, breeders now have more tools than ever to enhance herd genetics, improve pregnancy rates, and increase efficiency. At 605 Sires + Donors, we are here to help you navigate these options and choose the best reproductive strategies for your herd.

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605 Sires + Donors Partners with Preferred Genetics: Expanding High-Quality IVF Services in the Midwest

14 January 2025
Sammi Schrag
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Categories: Blog, News, Press Releases

 

We’re excited to announce a new partnership between 605 Sires + Donors and Preferred Genetics, a highly respected bovine embryo center located in Columbus, NE. This collaboration brings together two industry leaders, combining their expertise to offer top-tier IVF embryo production using patented ABS technology to seedstock producers across Nebraska and surrounding states.

A Partnership Built on Excellence

Preferred Genetics has been a trusted name in the bovine embryo industry for over 25 years, known for its elite embryo transfer services and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. This partnership represents a significant step forward in delivering advanced genetic solutions to breeders. Cory Thomsen, a Nebraska native and Client Success Manager at 605 Sires + Donors, shared his enthusiasm about the collaboration:

“Given the high regard for Preferred Genetics and the respect of Dr. Phil Buhman within the industry for the past three decades, we feel this partnership will align with our goals of providing a high-quality IVF product along with unmatched customer satisfaction.”

State-of-the-Art IVF Services

IVF aspirations in Columbus, NE, are set to begin immediately, with the 605 IVF Team, led by Diego Obando, IVF Lab Manager at 605 Sires + Donors, at the helm. Oocytes harvested at the Columbus satellite center will be transported to our state-of-the-art IVF lab in Marion, SD, where fertilization will occur using the client’s chosen semen type—conventional, sexed frozen, or reverse-sorted semen. This streamlined process ensures the highest standards of precision and quality throughout the entire IVF procedure.

Expanding Advanced Genetic Solutions

Through this partnership, 605 Sires + Donors continues its mission to provide seedstock producers with superior breeding options and unmatched customer service. By working closely with Preferred Genetics, we aim to deliver innovative reproductive solutions that enhance cattle productivity, genetic diversity, and overall herd quality.

This collaboration builds on our successful partnership with Madison Genetics in Madison, SD, further solidifying our position as a leading provider of IVF services in the upper Midwest.

What This Means for Seedstock Producers

Seedstock producers in Nebraska and neighboring states can now benefit from:

  • Access to cutting-edge IVF technology and customized genetic solutions.
  • Elite embryo transfer services backed by decades of experience.
  • A streamlined IVF process, with on-site oocyte collection and fertilization at a modern facility.
  • Flexibility in semen options, ensuring producers can choose the best fit for their herds.

Looking Ahead

At 605 Sires + Donors, we remain committed to innovation and excellence in cattle reproduction. Our partnership with Preferred Genetics is another step in our ongoing efforts to provide top-tier services to breeders throughout the region. We’re excited to see how this collaboration will benefit seedstock producers and help shape the future of bovine reproduction.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to expand our network and deliver cutting-edge genetic solutions. For more information about our services or to schedule an appointment, visit 605sires.com.

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Employee Spotlight: Alfredo Soria – Pioneering Excellence in IVF Lab Management

16 December 2024
Sammi Schrag
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Categories: Employees

At 605 Sires & Donors, the dedication of our team drives our success. Today, we’re proud to highlight Alfredo Soria, our talented IVF Lab Manager, whose journey in the field of bovine IVF showcases his expertise, passion, and commitment to advancing reproductive technology.

A Career Built on Expertise and Innovation

Alfredo began his career in 2013 as a Biologist and Pharmaceutical Chemist in the IVF industry in Durango, Mexico. Over the years, he honed his skills and expanded his knowledge, quickly becoming a respected professional in the field.

In 2017, Alfredo joined ABS Mexico as an IVF laboratory technician, where he played a pivotal role in supporting reproductive advancements. His dedication and talent led him to join the International Projects Team of ABS Global in 2022, where he had the exciting opportunity to launch the ABS IVF lab in Vietnam for TH Milk, marking a milestone in his career.

Leadership at 605 Sires & Donors

In 2023, Alfredo brought his global expertise to Sioux Falls, SD, working for ABS Global before transitioning to 605 Sires & Donors. As IVF Lab Manager, he has been instrumental in establishing and leading our lab operations. Alfredo’s ability to innovate, streamline processes, and deliver exceptional results has been a cornerstone of our success.

Alfredo’s pride in his work is evident:
“To this day, I feel thrilled and proud of all the work I have achieved in this new company.”

Driving Excellence in IVF Reproductive Technology

With Alfredo’s leadership, 605 Sires & Donors continues to push boundaries in the IVF market, delivering top-tier solutions to our clients. His commitment to innovation, precision, and quality ensures that we remain at the forefront of the industry.

We’re excited to see Alfredo’s journey with us continue, as he plays a vital role in shaping the future of bovine reproduction.

Employee Spotlight: Diego Obando – A Global Expert in Cattle Reproduction

13 December 2024
Sammi Schrag
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Categories: Blog, Employees

At the heart of our commitment to innovation and excellence in cattle reproduction is the incredible expertise of our team. Today, we’re excited to feature Diego Obando, whose global experience and deep knowledge in bovine reproductive technology continue to drive outstanding results for our clients.

From Brazil to the World: A Journey of Expertise

Diego holds a veterinary degree from Uberlândia State University in Brazil, a foundation that propelled him into the specialized field of cattle reproduction. Over the past decade, he has built an impressive career with leading global companies like Invitro Brazil and ABS, earning recognition as an authority in the IVF market.

A Wealth of Knowledge in Bovine Reproduction

Diego’s skill set is unparalleled, encompassing every stage of the reproductive process. His areas of expertise include:

  • Bovine Female Physiology: A nuanced understanding of the reproductive system’s complexities.
  • Pregnancy Diagnosis and Fetal Sexing: Accurate assessments that support strategic herd management.
  • Embryo Transfer and Ovum Pick-up (OPU): Advanced techniques ensuring high success rates in IVF projects.

Diego has actively contributed to groundbreaking embryo projects across the beef and dairy industries in Brazil, Russia, and the USA. His hands-on experience working in diverse markets gives him unique insights into adapting reproductive technologies to different breeds, climates, and client needs.

A Passion for Innovation and Impact

What sets Diego apart is his ability to combine technical precision with a forward-thinking approach. His work supports not only improving cattle productivity but also enhancing genetic diversity and sustainability in the livestock industry.

Bringing Value to Our Team

We are incredibly proud to have Diego as part of our team. His dedication, global perspective, and unmatched expertise continue to elevate our IVF and reproduction services, ensuring we remain at the forefront of industry advancements.

Stay tuned as we share more about how Diego and our team are working to transform the future of cattle reproduction!

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“Change is Inevitable. Growth is Optional.”

18 March 2022
Sammi Schrag
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Categories: Blog

I once saw a quote that said, “Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.” and it really stuck with me. In a business as fast-paced as the beef industry, things are always changing and it’s up to you whether or not you’re going to grow with the change.

This is a principle that 605 has really set our sights on.

  • When we first opened in 2017, we had one bull barn that could hold 40 bulls.
  • In 2018 we built the “south runs” for 10 more bulls.
  • Then a year later we added another bull barn to house 40 more bulls.
  • The following year we added an embryo center.
  • Next, we built a CSS facility to house bulls for international semen exports.
  • And finally, we are here today, where we’re building a STgenetics sexed semen lab to be open April 2022.

With each addition, there was a leap of faith that it was going to work out. And with each addition it has only introduced us to some of the best customers in the country who we’re lucky enough to call friends today.

Cory Schrag says, “We’re done building for a long time, but I’ll believe it when I see it.”