The Angus Foundation, in partnership with Angus Genetics Inc. (AGI) and international research teams, has been awarded $4.85 million to help develop more energy-efficient, low-methane beef cattle. The funding is part of a larger $27.4 million global initiative supported by the Bezos Earth Fund and the Global Methane Hub.
Over the next five years, researchers will study over 10,000 cattle to better understand the genetic traits linked to methane emissions and energy use. The goal is to create new genomic tools that help breeders identify animals that use less energy for maintenance—freeing up more for growth and production.
AGI President Kelli Retallick-Riley said the project offers practical benefits for producers by improving efficiency and cutting emissions. The research builds on AGI’s previous methane work and will provide science-based selection tools at no cost to breeders.
AGI will oversee data collection in North America, while the University of New England’s Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit (AGBU) in Australia will coordinate global efforts. Other participating organizations include research groups from New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Ireland.
AGI board chair John Dickinson said this project brings a fresh approach by looking at energy loss, not just performance. With declining cow numbers and increasing competition for land and resources, he believes efficiency will become even more critical.
Studies have shown that some cattle naturally emit up to 30% less methane, making selective breeding a promising strategy. Retallick-Riley emphasized that this is an industry-led effort that gives Angus breeders the chance to lead in sustainable innovation.
By combining global research with on-the-ground tools, the project aims to help producers improve efficiency, reduce costs, and stay competitive in a changing industry.
