Genotyping Scheme Is Now Open – What Are The Next Steps?

The Bovine Genetics Project (BGP) Genotyping Scheme is now open, and farmers who have completed their registration on the SRG User Portal, can now order their DNA tissue tags and start genotyping their animals.

Once you have registered for the scheme, the next steps involve selecting the animals you want to genotype, reviewing your animal list and ordering your tags from an approved tag supplier, outlined in the steps below.

How Do I Order My Genotyping Tags?

Step 1: Log into Your Account

• Log in the same way as you did when you signed up, using your Government Gateway or NIDA details.

Step 2: Genotyping & Tag Selection

• Go to the ‘Genotyping‘ tab on your herd dashboard and select ‘Genotype Tag Selection’.

• On the Tag Selection screen, you will be able to see your eligible animals for genotyping.
• NB: Your eligible animals will automatically be pre-selected.

Step 3: Review Animal List

• Review your eligible animal list and ensure all the animals you wish to genotype are selected
• You can edit your list by clicking ‘Enable Editing‘ and selecting or deselecting any animals that you want to order tags for.
• Once your eligible list is finalised, ensure you press ‘Save Changes’
• We encourage you to genotype all eligible animals on the list. You will receive a full subsidised payment for these eligible animals.
• Animals that are not already selected on the eligible animal list may still be genotyped, but you will have to pay for the sample e.g. any animal registered as a ‘MALE’ on NIFAIS.

Step 4: Contact Your Tag Supplier

• Now your eligible animal list is complete, contact your approved tag supplier and order your DNA tags for your eligible animals.
• The four main tag suppliers that are approved for the genotyping scheme are:
  • Countryside Services Ltd (Caisley)
  • Datamars Agri UK Ltd
  • Fane Valley (Allflex)
  • Shearwell – Joseph Walls
• Your tag company will be able to see your eligible animal list.
• NB: Calves may be tagged with DNA double tissue tags*
• *Prior to January 2027, male calves can be eligible for a subsidy payment as long as they are registered as ‘B’ on NIFAIS.

Calf Eligibility

Not Already Registered?

If you have not already registered, sign up through the SRG User Portal at www.srgni.com, more details on how to register can be found here.

If you have any questions about registration or the Genotyping Scheme, contact the SRG team by calling 02820462280 or by filling out the contact form linked here and a member of the team will call you back, or visit the FAQ section of the SRG website found here.