The Farm Animal Genetic Resources (FAnGR) Committee provides advice to Government on all issues relating to farm animal genetic resources, including monitoring how breed populations are changing over time and advising Government on breeds they consider to be at particular risk. During an outbreak of an exotic disease, such as Foot and Mouth, the Government may need to cull farm animals to help control the spread of the disease. One of the principal drivers behind the FAnGR Committee’s work is its wish to see that protection is offered, provided that disease control is not compromised, to our most vulnerable native farm animal breeds, for example those which have scarce populations or are geographically concentrated. Such breeds are listed in the UK Breeds at Risk List (UK BAR).
The Wensleydale Longwool remains part of the UK Breeds at Risk List (UK BAR).
Please bear in mind that there are no guarantees an animal will be spared and that a derogation/exemption is not granted automatically.
Decisions to spare are made on a case by case basis. A vet will carry out a risk assessment of the premises where the animal is kept. Other factors, including the potential implications of failing to cull, will also be considered. It is therefore important that keepers of animals from breeds on the BAR list have contingency measures in place in case of an exotic disease outbreak.
The FANGR Committee has therefore published an updated set of guidelines that can be found HERE to help breeders develop their own contingency plan, through consultation and collaboration with their own private vet, as part of their Herd and Flock Health plans.
Please do take the time to read these through so you can implement them if required.