Environmental influences resulting in epigenetic mediation of gene expression can affect multiple generations via direct effect (first generation); direct or maternally mediated effects on the fetus (second generation), or gonadal cell lines of the fetus (third generation) when pregnant animals are exposed to the stimuli; and through generational inheritance. The cumulative effects are rapid changes in phenotypic characteristics of the population when compared with rate of phenotypic change from genetic selection. With extensive data collection, significant potential exists to propagate desired characteristics in the livestock industry through epigenetic pathways.