Professor Geoff Simm, Chair of the National Standing Committee on Farm Animal Genetic Resources said:
"We are concerned that some keepers of rare and traditional breeds, especially those with smaller flocks and herds, may not have heard the vaccination message. It is a vital step in helping to protect our rich heritage of livestock breeds, therefore we are also urging vets to contact their clients with these breeds to encourage them to vaccinate.
"Protecting biodiversity in our farm animals and crops is important to help us meet future challenges, including that of feeding the growing human population in a sustainable way. We also have important national and international obligations to do so. Exotic diseases pose a particular threat to our Farm Animal Genetic Resources, both to rare breeds and to elite herds and flocks of mainstream breeds".
The UK has one of the richest Farm Animal Genetic Resources in the developed world, with over 130 native breeds of poultry, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses and ponies, of which around 100 are at risk of extinction.
Notes for Editors
1. Vaccination is only permitted within the bluetongue protection zone. The protection zone is being enlarged progressively to facilitate vaccination as vaccine is delivered from the manufacturers. The intention is to move progressively to vaccination of all England and Wales over the coming months. Further details on the bluetongue protection zone in England and Wales, and on vaccination are available at Defra, UK - Animal health & welfare - Bluetongue disease and Welsh Assembly Government website- Environment and Countryside-Bluetongue disease
2. The National Standing Committee on Farm Animal Genetic Resources was established recently to advise Government and industry on farm animal genetics issues and to oversee implementation of the UK National Action Plan on Farm Animal Genetic Resources for more details.
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