International Heritage Breeds Week, May 17-23

PITTSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA – Along with partners around the globe and thousands of conservationists, farmers, ranchers, shepherds and breeders, The Livestock Conservancy begins observation of International Heritage Breeds Week, Sunday, May 17. During the annual celebration, the organization highlights the critically important role rare breeds of livestock and poultry play in protecting agricultural biodiversity, strengthening food security and preserving genetic diversity . 

Among its activities, the Pittsboro, North Carolina-based not-for-profit organization is responsible for the annual Conservation Priority List, a roster of more than 180 endangered breeds across 11 species ranks the extinction threat for America’s farm animals. 

“The International Heritage Breeds Week campaign was created to increase global awareness of these lesser-known breeds and the important genetic diversity they contain,” explained Allison Kincaid, executive director of The Livestock Conservancy. “These breeds, including donkeys, cattle, goats, horses, sheep, pigs, rabbits, chickens, ducks, geese and turkeys, often have longer lifespans and productive years, a slower growth rate, and are adapted to specific environments, making them unique and fascinating. They thrive when raised by more traditional farming practices.” 

Kincaid said there is tremendous value in preserving and protecting heritage breeds. 

“Many of our breeds contain traits carefully developed over hundreds of years. Today, heritage breeds serve as primary reservoirs of genetic diversity in most domesticated animal species. Up to 50% of a breed’s biodiversity is found nowhere else within the species,” she said. 

Biodiversity matters. Today, three-quarters of the world’s food supply draws on just 12 crops and five livestock species, according to the United Natithat rare breeds of livestock and poultry play in protecting agricultural biodiversity, strengthening food security and preserving genetic diversityons. Yet, global demand for livestock products is expected to increase 70% by 2050.      

“The Livestock Conservancy works year-round with academic institutions and others to document, research and maintain the genetic diversity contained in these animals,” Kincaid added. “Each year, we provide Microgrants to heritage breed farmers and breed organizations to support their conservation work with these rare breeds. We also develop educational resources, including webinars, blogs, and podcasts, to provide practical information for producers and promotional materials that help supporters share the importance of heritage breeds at events and throughout their communities.” 

Throughout the weeklong observance, The Livestock Conservancy and its sister organizations in other nations hope to spread the important message of heritage breeds. Additionally, many members of the organization, historical farms, museums and participating zoos will be holding informational booths, educational outreach efforts and special events highlighting endangered agricultural breeds. 

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