We appreciate your interest in learning more about the Katahdin National Sheep Improvement Program (kNSIP) and Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs). EBVs are predictions of an animal’s expected performance and are used by participating members to make selection and culling decisions, reach flock goals, and to improve overall flock performance. To understand more about how this process works, the following documents and educational materials have been developed specifically for Katahdin producers.
Fact Sheets
NSIP Concepts
Glossary of EBV Terms
Fact Sheets
The Fact Sheet series below was created to further the
understanding of individual EBVs. Some fact sheets describe a single EBV or index: scrotal circumference, maternal weaning weight, and Katahdin Index. Others include related EBVs: weight traits such as birth, weaning and post-weaning weights; fecal egg count EBVs such as weaning and post-weaning FECs; and reproductive traits such as number of lambs born and weaned EBVs. Each fact sheet includes a description of the EBV, how it’s measured and how it can be applied in your flock.
Weight Trait EBVs
Maternal Weaning Weight EBV
Fecal Egg Count EBVs
Reproductive Trait EBVs
USA Hair Index
Carcass Trait EBVs
Scrotal Circumference EBV
Weight Trait EBVs
Maternal Weaning Weight EBV
Fecal Egg Count EBVs
Reproductive Trait EBVs
USA Hair Index
Carcass Trait EBVs
Scrotal Circumference EBV
NSIP Concepts
We often get requests for more information on some of the NSIP concepts and practical application of EBVs on the farm. The NSIP concepts included below will help producers develop balanced selection strategies and the most effective breeding group structures. Understanding the importance of accuracy, connectivity and contemporary group structure will help producers with selection of animals within their own flocks as well as when purchasing animals.
Balanced Traits
Accuracy & Connectivity
Contemporary Groups
Breeding Group Structure
Balanced Traits
Accuracy & Connectivity
Contemporary Groups
Breeding Group Structure
Glossary of EBV Terms