Why Conserve a Rare Breed?

When the last individual of a race of living things breathes no more, another Heaven and another Earth must pass before such a one can be again. --William Beebe

The American public is aware of the many species of endangered wild animals, but not as many are aware of the endangered status of about 100 breeds of cattle, donkeys, horses, goats, chickens, turkeys, geese, ducks and sheep. These heritage breeds once brought delightful color and healthy genetic diversity to the farms of our forebears.

Heritage breeds of domestic livestock are disappearing fast, due to the commercialization of agriculture and the urbanization of family farms. Fewer people are raising livestock, and they are raising fewer breeds of livestock. Without concerted efforts to save these breeds, their future is as precarious as the Whooping Crane’s or the Siberian Tiger’s.

Genetic diversity helps ensure the health of our American meat and wool resources. If any one breed of sheep is threatened by disease or other malady, others may survive the assault. If too few breeds exist, the industry, and even the agrarian lifestyle, could be vulnerable. Genetic diversity is a safeguard against any species of animal being wiped out, and a means for promoting species vitality.

Currently, the Jacob Sheep Conservancy estimates that there are around 4000 Jacobs in the US. The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy (www.albc-usa.org) classifies the Jacob as a “rare” breed, with fewer than 1000 animals registered per year.

How Can You be a Conservator?

Do You Already Own Sheep/Livestock?
Consider adding a group of Jacobs to your flock or farm. As a farmer, homesteader or shepherd, you already understand the needs and demands of domestic animals. You will find the hardiness of the Jacob allows them to thrive on a very small investment of time and resources. Even a small flock will expose this great breed to more people, who may in turn help spread the word about healthy genetic diversity. And the sought-after wool and lean meat will add to the income available through your farm.

Do You Already Own Jacob Sheep?
Consider keeping your breeding stock pure and your husbandry practices consistent with conservation goals. Though many people have “improved” their meat or spinner flock with the introduction of Jacob blood, these crossings diminish the already dwindling gene pool, and further endanger the breed. Consider registering your Jacob sheep with the Jacob Sheep Conservancy. For a minimal fee, this careful recording of sheep pedigrees helps protect and preserve the gene pool and the future of the breed.

If You Can’t Really Own Sheep…
Consider purchasing Jacob products from a breeder of registered sheep: raw wool for spinning, hand- or mill-spun yarn for knitting or crochet, or lean, flavorful meat for your freezer. Also consider a tax-deductible donation to the Jacob Sheep Conservancy to further the work of dedicated shepherds and supporters.