What does ALBC mean in FARMING & AGRICULTURE

The American Livestock Breeds Conservancy is a national nonprofit working to protect nearly 150 breeds of livestock and poultry from extinction. We strive to ensure the future of agriculture and food production through genetic conservation and education.

ALBC’s primary goal is to conserve, promote and improve more than 150 rare or at-risk domestic livestock breeds and their genetic resources in the United States, including cattle, horses, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, geese, ducks and turkeys. We also work with educational institutions to promote best practices for production of these animals while recognizing the needs of small farmers and homesteaders.

ALBC works together with farmers and ranchers to ensure that rare breeds continue to be used in sustainable agricultural systems. We provide advice on animal selection and management; conduct research on domestic animal genetics; offer educational programs; connect breed owners; facilitate sales of breeding stock; monitor industry trends; update our conservation lists; and engage in public outreach activities.

ALBC offers a variety of services for both breeders and consumers. These include breed listings, a Breed Identifier tool which allows users to identify specific breeds by name or characteristics, a Conservation Priority List which identifies breeds needing attention due to low population numbers or limited geographic range, an online store selling breed-related items such as books and gifts for farmers and homesteaders, an education program featuring workshops on topics related to genetic conservation as well as webinars exploring emerging topics in livestock husbandry & management.

Yes! ALBC participates in numerous events throughout North America each year including county/state fairs, auctions/sales where we feature livestock from our Genetic Preservation Program (GPP), conferences & symposiums both regionally & nationally that focus on endangered species awareness or sustainable farming practices among others. Additionally many local breed clubs host field days where individuals have an opportunity to learn about different breeds firsthand at farms & ranches across the country.

Yes! There are several non-profit organizations dedicated to preserving rare breeds around the world such as Rare Breeds International (RBI) based in Ireland which focuses solely on preserving native European livestock species/breeds & The Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) based out of England which similarly concentrates its efforts primarily on British native species/breeds. In addition many government agencies such as The USDA Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) also perform important work towards conservation & protection of endangered species both inside & outside the U.S..

There are several ways you can support ALBC’s efforts to conserve rare & endangered livestock species/breeds! Donate directly using our secure online donation portal www.albc-usa donate today page or become a member with your annual membership fee ensuring that you stay up-to-date with all our activities related to conserving at risk populations of traditional farm animals! You can also purchase merchandise through our online store supporting both our organization’s mission as well as US based artisans who produce unique pieces relating to heritage livestock & poultry specializing in historical information! Lastly we invite you join us at events throughout North America so that you have an opportunity see first hand some of these amazing animals while helping spread awareness about their importance.

Before purchasing a heritage breed it’s important that buyers consider carefully if they have sufficient knowledge regarding appropriate husbandry practices such as housing requirements & nutritional needs for this animal(s). Other considerations might include adequacy availability of veterinary care within close proximity evaluative criteria given by authorized registries for particular breeds assessing market potential established by established sources such as 4-H Junior Fairs or even special agricultural zoning regulations imposed by particular regions wherein one resides prior undertaking ownership responsibilities.

Age restrictions vary depending upon particular state regulations governing sale farm animals however generally speaking one must be 18 years age older purchase own live stock whereas younger minors may legally obtain ownership rights provided parent guardian assume full responsibility for purchased animal’s welfare maintaining proper records associated likewise adhering all applicable laws within given jurisdiction where transaction occurred.