Conference paper
THE OPTIMAL CONSERVATION MODELS FOR CROATIAN BREEDS OF FARM ANIMALS
M. Ernoić
; Varaždinska županija Franjevački Trg 7, 42000 Varaždin, Hrvatska
M. Posavi
; Department of Zoology, UW Madison, Birge Hall 422, USA
D. Vincek
; Varaždinska županija Franjevački Trg 7, 42000 Varaždin, Hrvatska
Abstract
Today in the era of reconsideration of industrial (high-input high-output) breeding and management of farm animals, which among others also contain many risks and ethical doubt, the old (native) breeds acquire the great chance they deserve. The high adaptability to the local environment, disease resistance, modesty in food and care requirements give our native breeds a great advantage in the low-input production systems. Such a low input production could easily be converted into organic production, should it take place in the areas where high input production is not possible anyway (Hrvatsko Zagorje, Lonjsko i Odrasko polje, Kordun, Lika, Istra, Dalmatinska zagora). We call these areas “the virgin soil” areas, since they have never been polluted by industrial, intensive agricultural or livestock production. Croatian Government subsidizes breeding and rearing of Croatian local breeds in their natural environment (in situ conservation) by supporting the farmers directly. Unfortunately, the ultimate goal of in situ conservation, self-sustainability of the breed is neglected. The long term sustainability of the local breeds will be possible only if we redesign and improve the old traditional production systems to make the local breeds more profitable. Unfortunately the Government does not provide sufficient financial support for such projects.
Keywords
Farm animals; protection; optimal models
Hrčak ID:
33016
URI
Publication date:
15.12.2008.
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