British Society of Animal Science Conference and Workshop

The Potential Role of Rare Livestock Breeds in UK Farming Systems

1-2 December 1997. Appleby Castle, Appleby, Cumbria, UK

Co-hosted by Scottish Agricultural College (SAC), Rare Breeds Survival Trust, Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAFF)

The genetic diversity found amongst breeds reflects the range of environmental factors, both natural and those influenced by man, to which they have adapted. Besides being part of our living heritage, genetically different breeds may provide flexibility to respond to yet unknown challenges. The production outputs of farming systems, the tools and standards used in their production, and the priorities of society are continually changing. The natural diversity among breeds may provide ways to respond to these changes.

Evidence of genetic diversity in livestock is both scientific and anecdotal in its origin. Part of the documentation has involved characterising the role climate, nutrient supply, parasitism and disease has played in the evolution of different breeds.

Understanding whether and how different kinds of animals have adapted to their environment is the first step in developing strategies for their use in farming systems.

Conference This meeting will follow a six month review of current knowledge about how and why breeds differ to establish the possible roles of rare breeds in farming systems. The findings of this review will be available at the meeting and will provide the framework for the conference.

Workshop An important part of the review is to identify what is not understood about this topic. The purpose of the workshop is identify and prioritise areas of research to better understand the role of and ways to integrate rare breeds into farming systems in the UK.

Submission deadline - one page summary for poster presentation should be submitted to BSAS by 15 September 1997. Details from BSAS Office.

Conference (day one)

• MAFF review of the adaptation of rare livestock breeds to their environment
  
• Invited presentations about the genetic diversity, physiology, welfare and behaviour and marketing of rare livestock breeds
  
• The role of rare livestock breeds in UK farming systems
  

Workshop (day two)

• Invited delegates
  
• Workshop groups to discuss subjects highlighted in day one, and in particular to clarify current understanding about rare livestock breeds
  
• Develop agenda for future research

Further details from

BSAS

PO Box 3,
Penicuik
Midlothian EH26 0RZ

Tel: +44 (0)131 445 4508
Fax: +44 (0)131 535 3120
Email: BSAS@ed.sac.ac.uk

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