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Cat. No. A22-384/2004
ISBN 0-662-68029-4
AAFC No. 2255B

CANADA'S COUNTRY REPORT

FARM ANIMAL GENETIC

RESOURCES

to THE TOOD AMD AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION Of
THE UNITED NATIONS

Prepared by:

F. G. Silversides, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada,
D. L. Patterson, Nova Scotia Agricultural College,
R. D. Crawford, University of Saskatchewan, and
S. K. Ho, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

With contributions from members of the Ad hoc Advisory Committee on Farm Animal
Genetic Resources. The support of the Director of the Agriculture Division of Statistics
Canada and the contributions of Robert Plourde, Pius Mwansa, Lucie Jamieson, and
Lina Di Pietro are gratefully acknowledged.

2003

Members of the Ad Hoc
Advisory Committee:

J.-G. Bernier, Canadienne Cattle Breeders Association

N. Buddiger, Hybrid Turkeys

J. P. Chesnais, Canadian Centre for Swine Improvement, Inc.

R. Chicoine, Semex Alliance

R. D. Crawford, University of Saskatchewan (Chair of Committee)

C. F. Fiss, Genex Swine Group, Inc.
K. M. Flaman, Holstein Canada

L. Goedde, Alta Genetics

S. K. Ho, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Secretary of Committee)

R.J. Hudson, Canadian Bison Association

S. M. Hunt, Canadian Goat Society

W. R.James, Canadian Swine Breeders Association

E.J. Kendall, Equine Canada

A. W. Kulenkamp, Shaver Poultry Breeding Farms Ltd.

D. E. Lawrence, Rare Breeds Canada

H. J. McLane, Canadian Beef Breeds Council

R. McRonald, Canadian Livestock Genetics Association

D. L. Patterson, Nova Scotia Agricultural College (Member of Drafting Group)

S. AA. Schmutz, University of Saskatchewan

D. AAcQ. Shaver, Canadian Farm Animal Genetic Resources Foundation

J. N. B. Shrestha, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

F. G. Silversides, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (Member of Drafting Group)

D. M. Trus, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

F. J. Wort, Canadian Sheep Breeders Association

L. R. Zimmer, Canadian Swine Breeders Association

Preface

Canada was an early signatory of the 1 992 Convention on Biological Diversity arising
from the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, popularly
known as the Rio Conference. For the first time, farm animal genetic resources became
subject matter under a legally binding international treaty. In 1993, the Food and
Agriculture Organization developed its Global Strategy for the Management of Farm
Animal Genetic Resources. As part of this strategy, the Intergovernmental Technical
Working Group on Animal Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture recommended
that the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations co-ordinate the
development of a Report on the State of the World's Animal Genetic Resources. The
Food and Agriculture Organization and its intergovernmental Commission on Genetic
Resources for Food and Agriculture subsequently extended an invitation to its 161
member countries to submit country reports, with the intent that these be assembled into
regional reports as the basis of a report on the state of the world's farm animal genetic
resources. The invitation was accepted by Canada.

The genetic variation that has accumulated and become distinctly Canadian is used by
Canada's agriculture to adapt to continuously changing climatic, economic, and social
conditions. Availability of this variation will be necessary for Canadian producers to
address all of the key components of the Agriculture Policy Framework, including
Business Risk Management, Food Safety and Quality, Science and Innovation, and
Renewal.

Appreciation is expressed to the authors and to members of the Ad Hoc Advisory
Committee for their efforts in producing this report which not only responds to an
international obligation, but provides for reflection within Canada on the importance of
farm animal genetic resources to our continued prosperity.

Bob Speller

Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

2003

Table of Contents

Members of the Ad Hoc Advisory Committee
Preface

Executive Summary 6

Part 1 . The State of Genetic Resources in the Farm Animal Sector 8

1 . 1 Overview of Canada's animal production systems and

related animal biological diversity 8

1 .2 Assessing the state of conservation of farm animal

biological diversify 10

Breeds of farm animals 10

Conservation efforts 12

Progress in characterization and evaluation of risks 13

Development of information systems for breed conservation 14

1 .3 Assessing the state of utilization of farm animal

genetic resources 14

1 .4 Identifying the major features and critical areas of

farm animal genetic resource conservation and utilization 14

Part 2. Changing and Growing Demands on the Farm Animal Sector

and Implications for Future National Policies and Programs 15

2.1 Review of past policies, strategies, programs and

management practices 15

The Government of Canada Animal Pedigree Act 15

Record of Performance programs 16

Promotion of the purebred industry 16

The effect of marketing boards 17

Management practices 17

Government breeding programs 18

National non-governmental organizations 18

2.2 Analyzing future demands and trends 18

Demand for industrial product 19

Increased niche marketing 19

Use of animal products in industrial and non-food uses 19

Effects of government legislation and international agreements . .20
Alternative feeds and the effects of environmental change . . .20

2.3 Alternative strategies for establishing a system to conserve

animal genetic resources 20

Continue as we are 20

Establish a government system 21

Encourage the private sector to maintain resources 21

Develop a collaboration of all stakeholders 21

2.4 Outlining future national policy, strategy, and management
plans for the conservation, use and development of animal

genetic resources 21

Part 3. Reviewing the State of National Capacities Related to Farm Animal

Genetic Resources 22

3.1 Assessment of national capacities and capacity building 22

Human resources and infrastructure available 22

Human resources and infrastructure needed 23

Part 4. Priorities for the Development of an Enhanced National Program of
Sustainable Conservation and Utilization of Farm Animal
Genetic Resources 25

4.1 National priorities for all species and interest groups 25

4.2 Priorities for specific animal species, breeds, regions and rural
communities 25

Concerns and priorities by species 25

Part 5. Recommendations for International Co-operation 27

Part 6. Other Elements 27

6. 1 Preparation of the report 27

6.2 Annexes 29

Annex A. Tables concerning animal production and use (from
data provided by Agricultural Division, Statistics
Canada, June, 2002) 29

Annex B. A Call to Action from the Ad Hoc Advisory Committee .36

Annex C. Background documentation 36

Executive Summary

Canada, although one of the world's largest countries, uses only 6.8% of the landmass
for agriculture. Primary agriculture employs just 3% of the population, and contributes
an equal percentage to the country's economy. Most of Canada's animal agriculture
is intensive and productive. Principal animal species used for agriculture are cattle,
swine, sheep, chickens, turkeys, and horses, with lesser numbers of goats, ducks,
geese, and rabbits. Species native to North American, i.e. bison, elk, deer, mink, and
foxes, in addition to turkeys, are also farmed.

Most Canadian animal industries use a limited number of breeds or strain crosses.
Canada is home to the Canadienne cow, Canadien horse, and Newfoundland pony
which developed in Canada over many years. Planned crosses have produced new
breeds, some of which are, or have been, commercially important.

Very few animals are kept in public Canadian institutions as a reservoir of genetic
resources. The provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador and of Quebec contribute to
maintaining breeds that originated in these provinces. Two universities keep small
collections of heritage chicken breeds. A federal research site houses several lines of
chickens and Japanese quail. In addition, at least two universities have cryogenically
preserved tissue from discarded chicken lines. Two non-governmental organizations are
concerned with farm animal genetic resources. Rare Breeds Canada, affiliated with
Rare Breeds International, represents grassroots conservationists and has played an
important role in public education. The Canadian Farm Animal Genetic Resources
Foundation focuses on raising awareness of governments and industry and
encouraging liaison with researchers. Canadian animal industries do not directly
conserve genetic resources, although artificial insemination centres save semen from
dairy bulls, and a few companies keep genetic material when there is a perceived
commercial benefit.

The Canadian Livestock Records Corporation and breed associations maintain
pedigree records of registered breeds. Surveys of sheep, goat, swine, and cattle
resources were conducted in the 1 990s, and surveys of poultry and laboratory animal
stocks were done in the past. Rare Breeds Canada monitors population sizes of minor
breeds. Performance recording programs are now almost entirely privatized, with
many operated by breed associations. There is some molecular characterization of
breeds or genes.

Farm animal genetic resources are economically significant in Canada. Animal
products have traditionally been marketed as commodities which has encouraged the
use of standardized animals. Canada's success in genetic improvement, its programs
for pedigree verification, and its high health status have resulted in a significant
international demand for Canadian genetic material. Currently, market differentiation
is providing opportunities for specialized animal products which may encourage the
use of a greater variety of animal breeds.

The demand for animal products is expected to increase both domestically and
internationally and Canada can expect to participate in these expanding markets because
of its reputation as a supplier of superior breeding stock. A growing awareness of animal
welfare issues may lead to increasingly diverse production environments. Animal products
are being used in non-traditional ways. Genetic variation will be needed for Canada
to remain competitive and adapt to social change, climate change, and change in
production environments.

The Animal Pedigree Act, Record of Performance programs, and programs to
encourage the use of improved stock have contributed to the success of Canada's
animal industries. Canadian poultry and dairy industries operate under a system of
supply management, with quotas based on standardized products. Much of Canada's
animal industry uses industrial environments, and voluntary codes of practice for cattle,
swine, sheep, and poultry provide management standards.

Governments in Canada and the animal industries had generally considered that the
variation that they require to adapt to change is available within the country or
internationally. Recently, some representatives of the animal industries have expressed
concern about diminishing genetic diversity in commercial populations. Civil society
organizations play a role in providing information to the public and in keeping animals.

Canada currently does not have a specific infrastructure related to farm animal genetic
resource conservation, but is in the early stages of establishing a national program.
Animal breeding is taught at post-secondary educational institutions and may include a
section on genetic resources. Relevant research is conducted at various establishments.
Canadian animal industries and non-governmental organizations can also make
significant contributions to an overall system. A national program would benefit the
conservation and sustainable utilization of farm animal genetic resources. This could
be entirely within government, entirely in the private sector, or more likely, as a
collaboration among all stakeholders to help to establish goals and contribute to costs.

Any future Canadian program for conservation of farm animal genetic resources would
require strong leadership. It would need to be able to liaise with all stakeholders,
including industries, academics, governments, and non-governmental and international
organizations. It would need to be able to manage information to link existing data
bases and ensure that available information is captured and stored. It would need to
have expertise in handling and storage of genetic material and it would need to have
the capacity to increase this expertise through research. The group would need to be
able to conduct research on the evaluation and use of genetic diversity. Animal holding
facilities would be needed to allow collection of gametes, to support research, and as
part of a rescue network. Finally, it must be able to conduct outreach programs and
advocate for farm animal genetic resources with specialized groups, the general
public, and public and private organizations. Either a single location, multiple diffuse
locations, or more likely a central location with satellites that contribute specific facilities
or expertise, would be needed to provide a focus.

Part 1. The State of Genetic Resources in
the Farm Animal Sector

1.1 Overview of Canada's animal production systems
and related animal biological diversity

Canada occupies most of the northern part of North America, mostly falling north of
the 49th parallel. Canada is one of the world's largest countries, with a landmass of
over 9 million km2, much of which is in the Arctic or is otherwise unusable for
agriculture. About 41 million ha (4. 56%) of Canada's landmass is cultivated (cropping
for food and feed, as well as fallow), with another 20 million ha (2.25%) in natural and
improved pasture (Table 1). Most of Canada's population of 30 million people and
the majority of its arable land is located within 300 km of the southern border. The
population has increased by slightly less than 1% per year since 1991 (Table 2). This
growth in population has been urban, and the rural population has steadily declined
as farms have become larger and more mechanized. Canada consistently ranks
among the best countries in the world to live according to economic and social
indicators.

Primary agriculture employs 3% of the Canadian population (Table 2) and income from
primary agriculture represents 3% of Canada's gross domestic product. Animal
agriculture is responsible for 58% of the value of agricultural output (Table 3). Canada
as a whole is not susceptible to food shortages, being largely protected by its relatively
high income, diverse geography, and ability to produce sufficient food. Efficient
transportation systems in southern Canada allow for easy movement of animals and
products; costs are higher in northern and remote areas.

Governments own 2 1 % of the land used in Canada for livestock production, a
percentage that has declined slightly over the past 10 years (Table 4). Canada has
nearly 250 000 farms, 57% of which have livestock (Table 5). Excluding those with
total farm incomes less than $ 1 OK, the number of farms in Canada has decreased over
the last decade as the size of farms has increased (Table 6). When 50% or more of
income was obtained from on-farm sources, farm size averaged 424 ha compared to
only 240 ha when farming contributed less than 50% of income.

In 1999, 152 000 of Canada's farms were owned by farming families in various
categories according to business intentions, total income, and other factors (Table 7).
Large and very large family farms derived a larger portion of their income from on-farm
than from off-farm sources. Many of Canada's family farms are small or medium sized
and generated the majority of income (73%) from non-farm sources. In 1999, nearly
half of Canada's family farms were operated by farmers approaching or in retirement,
or living on farms but generating almost all income from off-farm sources.

Canada can be divided into four principal farming regions, Atlantic Canada, Central
Canada, the Prairies, and British Columbia (Table 8), that differ considerably in climatic
conditions, soil characteristics, and population demographics. In Atlantic Canada,
animals contribute 47% of farm income with 60% of the remaining derived from fruits
and vegetables. Central Canada, including the St. Lawrence valley and Southern
Ontario, has fertile soil and favorable climatic conditions, and produces 39% of

Canada's primary agricultural output, 51% from animal products (principally dairy,
pork, beef, poultry). The Prairie provinces are known for producing small grains
(primarily wheat, barley, and oats) with an increasing diversification into oilseeds
(canola) and specialty crops (pulses and some spice crops). Beef cattle production is
very important on the Prairies, and swine production has increased dramatically in
recent years. Including poultry, dairy cattle, and sheep which contribute smaller
amounts, animals generate 39% of farm income on the Prairies. Agriculture in British
Columbia is concentrated in the Fraser and Okanagan Valleys and southern Vancouver
Island. Farm animals, primarily dairy cattle and poultry, are produced in the Fraser
Valley, whereas fruits are dominant in the Okanagan Valley. Beef cattle are kept
extensively throughout the province. Farm animals are responsible for 45% of British
Columbia's farm income.

The principal animal species (Table 9) kept for food, fibre and draft power in Canada
are cattle (dairy, meat), swine (meat), sheep (meat, fibre, dairy), chickens (meat, eggs),
and turkeys (meat). Lesser numbers of goats (meat, dairy), ducks (meat), and geese
(meat) are kept. Horses are kept for a variety of purposes, including leisure, hormone
production, meat, and draft. Rabbits (meat, fibre) are a very minor agricultural species,
and llamas, alpacas, and donkeys are also kept in small numbers. There is purposeful
farming of native North American animals, such as mink and fox (fur), bison (meat,
skins), elk and deer (meat, skins, antlers), as well as harvesting of wild animals. A small
population of domesticated reindeer of Siberian and Norwegian origin, derived from
the Alaskan population, is kept in the MacKenzie River delta. The European wild boar
is kept throughout southern Canada for meat and hunting, but numbers remain low.

Although animal industries tend to be cyclical in nature, the numbers of most farm
animal species increased between 1991 and 2001 (Table 9). Beef cattle and swine
production in Canada increased partly due to changes in domestic policy (removal of
grain freight subsidies) and because of changes in international markets. Chicken
broiler production and egg production increased largely to supply domestic demand.
Production by dairy cattle has increased along with population growth, with a shift in
consumption from whole milk to milk products such as cheese and yogurt.

The majority of Canadian animal agriculture is intensive, requiring high inputs of both
capital and energy (Table 10). Some cattle and sheep are grazed extensively
considered as a medium input system. Controlled harvest of native wild ungulates -
bison (Bison), elk/wapiti (Cervus), caribou (Rongiferj, deer (Odocoileus), muskoxen
(Ovibos), sheep (Ovisj, moose (Alces) - by aboriginal populations represents a type of
low input agriculture production system which has been commercialized to a small
degree to support northern communities with few alternative forms of income. There is
little subsistence farming in Canada. Commercial farms in Canada market all or nearly
all of their production.

Canada is a net exporter of live and processed cattle and of swine (Table 1 1).
The supply of chicken meat and eggs, turkey meat, and milk and milk products
is controlled by marketing boards that regulate domestic production, with the
Government of Canada controlling imports and exports. However, Canada exports
and imports significant quantities of these commodities. In addition bison, sheep,
horses, other poultry, rabbits, goats, and donkeys, are exported as meat, skins, or as
live animals. Sheep, goats, waterfowl, horses, donkeys, and rabbits, or the products
that they produce, are imported. Much of the international trade in live animals is a
transfer of genetic material. Genetic resources (i.e. semen and embryos) of cattle,
horses, pigs, and goats are also exported (Table 1 2).

1.2 Assessing the state of conservation of farm
animal biological diversity

Breeds of farm animals

Most Canadian animal industries use a small number of standardized breeds with
defined and stable phenotypes and known pedigrees that were originally developed
elsewhere. Ninety-five percent of the dairy herd is made up of Holstein cows, with
Ayrshires and Jerseys making up most of the rest. Artificial insemination is used almost
exclusively, with a limited number of sire families represented. The beef industry was
based primarily on the British breeds (Shorthorn, Hereford, Aberdeen Angus) until the
late 1 960s when many Continental European breeds were imported to increase size
and muscling. Recently there has been a move back to smaller brood cows, in concert
with the United States industry. The Angus breed is presently very popular, with other
breeds developing black strains partly because of this. Approximately 40 beef breeds
are recognized in Canada, but four pure breeds, Angus, Charolais, Hereford, and
Simmental, represent approximately 90% of total registrations in Canada. Controlled
cross-breeding programs continue to be important in the beef industry. Lines have been
synthesized from existing breeds and are now also being used commercially. Swine of
seven different breeds were registered in 2001, but 99.4% of these were in the
Yorkshire, Landrace, and Duroc breeds, which are used predominantly by the swine
industry either pure or in crossbreeding programs. These breeds, along with newly
developed lines, continue to be used in crossbreeding programs, often without
registration of the individuals. The sheep industry uses the Suffolk, Dorset, Katahdin and
others in farm flocks, and the Columbia in range flocks, although many of these are not
registered. There are more than 40 breeds of sheep in Canada, but many are held in
small numbers. Sheep in Canada are used primarily for meat, but dairy production is
increasing; sale of wool makes up only a small portion of producer income. The
Canadian goat industry is relatively small, and at least ten breeds are present, with the
Alpine, Nubian, and Saanen breeds being most important. There is a system in place
for genetic improvement for dairy purposes. The goat meat industry has been
increasing with the introduction of Boer goats. Horses are used for pleasure, equestrian
(jumping, dressage, eventing) or Western disciplines (cutting and reining, rodeo, barrel
racing), and various forms of racing and there has been a revival of interest in use of
horses for draft power. A segment of the industry uses pregnant mares to produce
hormones for human medicinal and cosmetic purposes. Horses may be slaughtered for
meat, primarily for export. The poultry industry is the most industrialized of all Canadian
animal industries. Strain crosses rather than breeds are used, with a small number of
international companies involved in breeding.

Canada has a limited number of landrace breeds, which are traditional breeds kept for
many generations with significant natural selection but no selection by professional
breeders. The French government attempted to establish cattle in North America as
early as 1518, but the animals imported at this time did not survive. The Canadienne
breed of cattle was developed in the area that became the province of Quebec from
stock imported in 1608 and 1610, with addiiional importations from Normandy and
Brittany in the following decades. The Canadienne is known for producing milk with
a high fat and protein content and for its ability to do well on relatively poor pasture.
In 1995, only 105 pure Canadienne cattle were registered but a recent initiative has
established semen and embryo banks. In 2001, 103 pure and 61 non-pure

Ccmadienne cattle were registered. The Canadien horse developed under the same
conditions as the Canadienne cow, originating with importations from France starting
in 1667. In 1995, 222 Canadien horses were registered, and this grew to 423 in
2001 (along with 98 non-purebred). The Newfoundland pony also developed in a
harsh environment. It has never been recognized as a standardized breed and
numbers declined greatly following agricultural mechanization. Today the Government
of Newfoundland and Labrador is cooperating with private organizations to try to save
the breed. There is unresolved controversy over the uniqueness of a "Newfoundland
sheep" as well.

More recently, composite breeds, those produced by crossing of traditional breeds
followed by selection for desired characteristics, have been developed and released in
Canada. These include two breeds of cattle, four of sheep, one of swine, and one of
chickens. Some commercial lines that would fit this definition of composite breeds are
kept privately. Composite cattle breeds include the Hays Converter and the Shaver
Beefblend. One composite breed of sheep that was produced by a Government of
Canada breeding program (Rideau Arcott) is becoming quite popular, although two
other Arcott breeds are increasing very slowly in popularity and another (the DLS breed)
has never been used extensively. The Lacombe breed of pigs, developed by the
Government of Canada in the 1 960s, is now represented by only a few animals.
Other lines of pigs that have been developed by private companies would likely meet
the requirements for breed status, but are kept without registration. The Chantecler
chicken was produced by a series of crosses between recognized breeds, and has
survived on Quebec farms for about 80 years. Because of the length of time subjected
to the influence of the environment, the Chantecler could be considered to be a
Canadian landrace. It currently has no commercial importance.

Canada is also home to breeds that were developed elsewhere but are now of
conservation concern. Most of these originated in the United Kingdom, and many are
very ancient. Rare Breeds Canada monitors and assists in initiatives to maintain these
breeds. The Rare Breeds Canada newsletter (Genesis) includes updated lists of breeds
that they consider require conservation attention.

There are no feral cattle, sheep, swine, or chickens in Canada. The Sable Island horse,
originating from an intentional introduction to this island off the coast of Nova Scotia
about 1 760, is now considered feral and is protected by a number of regulations.
Feral populations of horses in Western Canada have recently received public attention,
but have very recent origins and are not considered to be genetically unique. A few
feral populations of goats exist on British Columbia coastal islands.

Canada has a limited number of wild relatives of domestic mammals. Native bison
(8os bison) are now being farmed commercially. There are also several kinds of wild
sheep [Ovis canadensis and Qvis dalli) and a Rocky Mountain goat [Oreamnos
americanus) but these are only distantly related to domesticated versions of sheep and
goats. Elk [Cervus elaphus) and deer (Odocoileus hemionus and Odocoileus
virginianus) are commercially farmed and populations of both species remain in the
wild. Trapping of wild fur-bearing species, for example mink [Mustela vison), foxes
[Vulpes vulpes), and Arctic foxes [Alopex lagopus) is an important industry for some
northern peoples. Generally, wildlife industries are interested in maintaining the genetic
integrity of stock, although some hybridization of plains and wood bison has occurred.
In some provinces, exotic deer species and hybrids are not allowed. For example,

Alberta requires vasectomy or slaughter of wapiti stags showing blood markers
suggesting hybridization with red deer.

Canada is home to some wild avian species that are distantly related to poultry. There
are several native grouse and partridge species. Ring-necked pheasant [Phosionus
colchicus), Hungarian partridge [Perdix perdix) and Chukar partridge [Alectoris graeca)
were introduced to Canada and populations exist in a feral state. There are also small
populations of wild turkeys [Meleoghs gollopovo) which are likely a mix of wild and
feral turkeys of North and Central America. The wild mallard duck [Anas platyrhynchos)
and the domestic duck are closely related. Some species of wild geese are related to
domestic geese kept in Canada.

Conservation efforts

Over the past decade, stocks of farm animals kept as pure lines in public institutions
have largely disappeared. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada maintained a large
collection of genetic lines of poultry (chickens and geese) until 1995. A few of these
are now kept by academic institutions or individuals. Direct federal and provincial
breeding programs for cattle, swine, and sheep have been discontinued. The Quebec
government has passed "an act respecting animal breeds forming part of Quebec's
agricultural heritage", under which the Canadienne cow, Canadien horse, and
Chantecler chicken are designated as Quebec heritage breeds, and it contributes to
conservation programs for the Canadienne cow (both in situ and ex situ). The
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has legislation (Heritage Animals Act) to
help Newfoundland breeds, and it lists the Newfoundland pony. Other provincial and
the federal governments are not directly involved with conserving animal genetic
resources, although some make limited contributions to agricultural museums some of
which house heritage breeds of livestock.

At one time several Canadian universities kept collections of specific breeds of farm
animals. In the past decade, the number of universities keeping these breeds and the
number of lines kept by each have both declined. One university (University of British
Columbia) formerly kept a collection of chicken and Japanese quail lines. These are
currently kept by the Government of Canada at one of its research sites. Several
universities including the University of Alberta and Nova Scotia Agricultural College
keep lines of purebred chickens for demonstration and research. The University of
Guelph has a collection of cryogenically preserved embryonic cells from the Agriculture
and Agri-Food Canada lines, and the University of Saskatchev/an has cryogenically
preserved fibroblasts and DNA from the conserved chicken stocks previously held there.
No Canadian university keeps breeding populations of endangered breeds of
mammalian farm animals.

Rare Breeds Canada originated in 1986 asjoywind Farms Rare Breeds Conservancy,
and became Rare Breeds Canada in 1995. This is a non-governmental organization
concerned specifically with maintaining endangered breeds of farm animals. It is
affiliated with Rare Breeds International, a network of grassroots organizations
distributed around the world. Most animals are kept in situ, many in relatively small
groups, and some bovine semen has been cryogenically preserved. In addition to its
efforts at conservation per se, Rare Breeds Canada has played an important role in
public education.

The Canadian Farm Animal Genetic Resources Foundation is also involved in promoting
conservation of farm animal genetic variation. The Foundation focuses on raising the
awareness of governments and industry and encouraging liaison with researchers.

Artificial insemination centres in Canada evaluate bulls and collect and freeze semen
for sale domestically and internationally. All of the centres recognize that conserving
animal genetic resources is important and routinely save frozen semen from tested bulls
for conservation purposes. Private companies breeding other farm animal species
(swine, poultry, and others) may keep some genetic material, especially if it has
commercial benefit in the relatively short term.

Progress in characterization and evaluation of risks

The Government of Canada supports pedigree recording of farm animals.
The "Animal Pedigree Act" regulates formation of breed associations and sets minimum
standards for registration. Many breed associations maintain their own pedigree
records. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, through the Canadian Livestock Records
Corporation, maintains the General Studbook and Herdbook, which records
information on animals that is not recorded by breed associations. The numbers of
registrations for most livestock species represent only a small portion of the total
population, but trends in registrations are indicators of changes in the population size
of specific breeds.

In the 1990s, surveys of research animals, sheep, goats, swine and cattle in Canada
were conducted by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. The surveys included a limited
amount of information on production systems and merits. Surveys of poultry and
laboratory animal stocks have been carried out by Canadian researchers, but are not
currently up to date. Rare Breeds Canada monitors the number of individuals in breeds
of farm animals of conservation concern, and has a limited amount of comparative
production data on a few of these breeds.

The federal and provincial governments supported Record of Performance systems for
dairy cattle and goats, beef cattle, swine, and sheep for many years, resulting in
extensive characterization of growth and production traits and a more limited
characterization of reproductive or other traits for the major breeds. In 1995 the
Government of Canada privatized performance recording and genetic evaluation. The
Canadian Dairy Network now coordinates performance recording for dairy animals,
and the Canadian Centre for Swine Improvement has a similar role for swine. Some
provincial programs for sheep performance recording still exist. Recording programs
for beef cattle are done provincially or via breed associations, often in conjunction with
programs in the United States. The Canadian Goat Society maintains its own
performance recording for dairy goats.

In the last decade, there has been an increasing amount of research in molecular
genetics of farm animals. This research, driven by individual researchers and funding
agencies, includes genome scans for quantitative traits, sequencing of candidate
genes, and development of markers for mapping. In a few cases the causative
mutations for traits of economic importance have been found (ryanodine receptor in
pigs associated with porcine stress syndrome, kappa-casein alleles associated with
curding quality in cow's milk, leptin gene associated with fat metabolism in various
species) and more have been mapped (horns and scurs in cattle).

Development of information systems for breed conservation

Rare Breeds Canada has developed systems to track endangered breeds of animals,
but these are used almost entirely by hobbyists and small holders rather than the
mainstream animal industries. Canadian Livestock Records Corporation and breed
associations maintain pedigree records for purebred livestock, but the intent of this has
not been breed conservation. Surveys carried out by Agriculture and Agri-Food
Canada on research animals, sheep, goats, swine and cattle genetic resources need
to be updated. At present, there is no comprehensive information system in Canada
with a primary goal of breed conservation. One aim of the Canadian Farm Animal
Genetic Resources Foundation is to ensure that inventories are revised annually and a
goal of a national system will be to carry this out.

1.3 Assessing the state of utilization of farm
animal genetic resources

Animal products have traditionally been marketed as commodities (eggs, meat, milk,
fibre) which has encouraged use of the standard breeds, thus limiting the amount of
genetic resources used in each species. Selection has been used to choose animals
that produce the standard commodity in the most efficient manner in the standard
industrial environment.

Canada's programs for pedigree verification, Record of Performance, and health of
animals have produced significant export opportunities for Canadian animals because
origins can be verified and levels of production and health status are high. Beef, dairy,
swine, sheep, and horse genetic resources are exported, with relatively free movement
of semen, embryos, and live individuals between Canada and other countries,
especially the United States. As an indication of the importance of this trade, in 2001
the value of exports of beef genetics has been estimated by industry representatives at
between $50 and $60 million. Exports of dairy cattle genetics are estimated by the
industry to have a value of $ 1 00 million. In many breeds of farm animals, Canadian
individuals form part of worldwide industrial populations.

There is currently market differentiation to identify beef and milk from specific breeds,
animal products from sustainable alternative systems of production, and specialty wools
for handicrafts. These marketing strategies may encourage the use of genetic variation
in livestock populations because they market diverse rather than uniform products. The
"alternative" market for animal products is currently small in comparison to the
commodity market but is growing.

1.4 Identifying the major features and critical
areas of farm animal genetic resource
conservation and utilization

Governments and academic institutions have shown peaks of activity in farm animal
genetic resource conservation, and have largely withdrawn from these as individuals
have retired and programs have changed.

The animal industry must be concerned with economic viability, both short and long
term. Their conservation of genetic resources within that framework must be in
industries' commercial interest. Historically, the animal industries have considered that
genetic diversity required for future change is available within the country or
internationally and that it is generally uneconomical to maintain. Representatives of
dairy, swine, poultry, sheep, and beef industries have recognized that genetic variation
will be necessary for their industries to continue and expand, and have recently shown
interest in participating in conservation activities.

Civil society is represented by Rare Breeds Canada and the Canadian Farm Animal
Genetic Resources Foundation, which are both active nationally. La Societe des
Eleveurs de Bovins Canadiens is incorporated under the Animal Pedigree Act • it
operates principally in Quebec and receives some financial assistance from the
Quebec government. It has directed efforts toward preserving the Canadienne cow by
encouraging use in situ, cryogenically preserving genetic material, encouraging
communication, and educating. The Newfoundland Pony Society receives some help
from the provincial government. Farm museums in some provinces utilize animal breeds
typical of the historical period they are portraying, but there is little or no coordination
of these resources and often no contact with the civil societies involved in genetic
conservation.

Conservation and use of animal genetic resources require funding, organization, and
leadership. The measurement of genetic diversity of farm animal populations is
essential for conservation and use. Conservation requires support from stakeholders:
government, industry, academia, and producer groups.

Part 2. Changing and Growing Demands on the
Farm Animal Sector and Implications
for Future National Policies and Programs

2.1 Review of past policies, strategies,
programs and management practices

At present Canada does not have a national program specifically for using and
conserving farm animal genetic resources. However, Canadian government programs
and regulations have influenced the availability of genetic variation and its utilization.

The Government of Canada Animal Pedigree Act

Canada's Animal Pedigree Act provides the legislative framework for incorporation
of breed associations and gives the breed associations exclusive authority to operate
national registries for animals. Registries under the act are operated by breed

associations or by the Canadian Livestock Records Corporation (previously Canadian
National Livestock Records) which was established in 1905. A group of animals can
be recognized as a breed under the Animal Pedigree Act based on three factors: a
common genetic origin, distinctness, and genetic stability. Under the Animal Pedigree
Act, "registered" and "purebred" are legally defined terms.

Registering an animal often represents a breeder's intention to use that animal in future
breeding programs or to sell it as breeding stock. For most livestock species, only a
small proportion of the animals in a population is registered. Registration makes
pedigree information publically available and helps in the exchange of breeding stock
domestically and internationally.

Registration of animals under the Animal Pedigree Act has contributed substantially to
the success of Canada's animal industries, but the importance of animals registered
under the Act to genetic progress varies between species. In dairy cattle, registration
is widespread and selection progress is mediated through registered animals.
The Canadian beef breeding industry is based largely on breeds recognized under the
Animal Pedigree Act. Much of the selection progress in the sheep industry is mediated
through animals that are registered under the Animal Pedigree Act. The mainstream

swine industry has increased the use of hybrid parents in recent years. Many swine
breeders register their breeding animals, but some large swine breeding companies
now maintain breeding groups which may or may not be based on individual breeds,
without registration. Commercial poultry are not registered in Canada; all commercial
chickens and turkeys are hybrids purchased from international breeding companies.

Record of Performance programs

Canada has had significant Record of Performance programs which were used to rank
the phenotypic performance of animals. The Record of Performance programs have
contributed to the improvement of Canadian livestock herds by choosing the most
productive individuals. Inevitably this has contributed as well to a narrowing of the
genetic base when some individuals in a population were not used for further breeding,
either because they were less productive in the environment used for the Record of
Performance program, or because they did not conform to characteristics defined by
the breed associations.

Performance recording programs have now been privatized. Breed associations for
cattle and goats measure dairy performance. Beef breed associations also record
performance, and several provincial governments operate record of performance
programs for beef cattle. The Canadian Centre for Swine Improvement works with
provincial governments to improve swine selection programs, and large breeding
companies do extensive performance recording in-house. The Ontario and Quebec
governments have provincial performance recording systems for sheep. Sheep producers
may use software programs that include genetic analysis within a flock, but not between
flocks. There is no public recording of performance for poultry.

Promotion of the purebred industry

Government programs such as Record of Performance have encouraged producers to
buy purebred breeding stock, with a focus on genetic improvement to meet current and
predicted future markets. Importation policies were significant in the establishment of
national beef and dairy herds as Canada had been attempting to replace the existing
stock with "improved" animals from elsewhere, principally Europe.

The effect of marketing boards

For the past several decades, governments have controlled importations of chicken,
eggs and turkey and marketing boards have managed commercial domestic
production. Poultry marketing boards have allowed the continuation of family owned
and operated poultry farms in Canada, but the individual producers use terminal
crosses purchased from international companies and do not control the genetics of the
birds that they maintain. There has been some move by the poultry marketing boards
to open the quota system to specialized products. However, the cost of quota generally
limits the ability of conservationists to maintain breeding flocks. Some provincial
marketing boards do support research in preservation of pure strains.

The dairy marketing system in Canada has produced stability in the industry by ensuring
that producers receive an adequate return for their labour and their investments through
a quota system. Orderly marketing has contributed to the domestic success of
Canada's dairy industry and has had a significant impact on building the reputation of
the Canadian dairy industry internationally, allowing the export of Canadian dairy
genetics to more than 50 countries. Despite its remarkable success on a number of
fronts, the dairy marketing system has not prevented the widespread use of a limited
number of sires of only one breed, leading to inbreeding. Until 1992, the marketing
system favored breeds producing high volumes of milk, discouraging commercial use
of breeds producing milk with high solids content. The current system of paying for milk
components may allow a limited increase in the use of other breeds.

Management practices

Canadian dairy, swine, chicken, and turkey industries use standard environments that
require standard animals. Most dairy cattle spend at least part of their time outside.
Most beef cattle are kept outdoors and are at least partially subject to vagaries of the
environment. Industrial swine and chickens are kept in climate-controlled facilities.
Most of the turkey industry also uses environmentally-controlled housing, but in some
areas of the country part of the production cycle is outdoors. Small but growing sectors
of the poultry and swine industries produce meat and eggs from animals with access
to outside areas. The sheep industry is split; many producers use a high degree of
management, with out-of-season lambing and multiple births, while others keep sheep
on range, with a low level of management inputs.

Codes of practice have been developed for cattle, swine, sheep, bison, deer, and
poultry, which provide recommended management standards for animal production
and slaughter. These codes were developed with input from animal industries and
groups concerned with humane treatment of animals and have been voluntarily
accepted by producers. Producer groups have also developed on-farm food safety
programs following Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles,
which have husbandry components. The HACCP programs are becoming important
for the domestic and international animal industries. The growing trend towards greater
awareness of animal welfare may lead to a need for more diverse genetics in the future
if production environments change substantially as a result of consumer demands.

Genotype x environment interactions exist, and not all stocks respond equally well to
intensive production environments. For example, some poultry stocks do not perform
well in cage systems, and some selected for performance in cage systems will not

perform well in extensive systems. Some bulls do not respond to semen collection and
storage, resulting in a potential loss of genetic variation. The processing environment
also treats animals differently depending on their genotype. Processing facilities require
animals that are uniform in size, carcass composition, and color, which encourages
standardization of breeds and of animal types within breeds.

Government breeding programs

In the past, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has had formal breeding programs for
poultry, swine (Lacombe), dairy cattle, sheep (including the Rideau Arcott, Outaouais
Arcott, Canadian Arcott, and the DLS breed) and beef cattle. In 1 988, Agriculture and
Agri-Food Canada terminated remaining breeding programs, with the exception of the
poultry programs which continued until the central facility was closed in 1995.
Selected animals resulting from these breeding programs were dispersed.
There remains an active research study on genetic strategies for sustainable production
of livestock within Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, but the results are transmitted to
the industry as information on genetic improvement tools etc. rather than as genetically
superior animals.

In the early 1990s, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada established a Canadian Animal
Germplasm Technical Experts Board. National and international workshops/symposia
in areas related to animal genetic resources were held in 1990, 1993, 1994, 1997
and 1999. Since that time, the technical experts board no longer functions, although
some individuals became members of the Expert Committee on Animal Genomics,
Genetic Resources and Reproduction, of the Canadian Agri-Food Research Council.
The technical experts board and the closely associated steering committee facilitated
the formation of the Canadian Foundation for the Conservation of Farm Animal Genetic
Resources, which is a non-governmental organization. This organization is currently
known as the Canadian Farm Animal Genetic Resources Foundation.

National non-governmental organizations

Both the Canadian Farm Animal Genetic Resources Foundation and Rare Breeds
Canada are national in nature. The Canadian Farm Animal Genetic Resources
Foundation aims to promote and perform conservation activities through the
coordinated action of industry, governments, and individuals. Rare Breeds Canada is
a grass roots organization whose members maintain live animals at their own expense
with the goals of rescuing and conserving breeds and educating the public.

2.2 Analyzing future demands and trends

Until recently, animal products have been marketed as commodities with little distinction
between products by either producers or consumers. The commodity approach has
encouraged a decrease in genetic diversity because the most efficient animals in a
standard environment are used to produce a uniform product. Future needs may
change depending on social developments (aging populations, changing income
levels, environmental and animal welfare concerns), climate change, or changes in
production environments, with subsequent changes in government policy and
legislation.

Demand for industrial product

The demand for animal products in Canada is expected to remain strong. Domestic
disappearance, representing total use, of beef and pork has remained steady or
increased over the past 10 years on a total or per capita basis (Table 13) and is
expected to continue this trend. Disappearance of mutton and lamb has increased over
the last 10 years and is expected to continue this trend, providing increased
opportunities for domestic producers. Consumption of chicken meat has increased
dramatically over the past 10 years, a trend that is expected to continue, and total
consumption of turkey meat has increased slightly. Total and per capita consumption
of eggs has also increased over the past 1 0 years after a stable period lasting several
decades.

Worldwide, Delgado (2001) predicted that between the early 1990s and 2020,
meat consumption would increase by 2.8% per year in the developing world and 0.6%
per year in the developed world. Canada has a worldwide reputation for superior
breeding stock with a high health status and can expect to participate in the expanded
domestic and international markets for animal products and genetics.

Increased niche marketing

In a small but growing trend, animal products are being sold under commercial brand
names. Some of this marketing refers to post-slaughter treatment ("Air-chilled chicken",
"Sterling Beef"), some refers to method of production ("Canada Organic", "Free
Farmed") and some refers to specific breeds ("Certified Canadian Angus"). Niche
market development can permit and even encourage the use of non-standard breeds
that have specific characteristics and allow them to support themselves.
Small cheese factories have been established that market cheese from specific breeds
of cattle (including the Canadienne) to take advantage of characteristics of milk that are
breed specific, such as the quantity and quality of protein contained. There is
increasing use of goat milk for lactose-intolerant individuals. Most consumers can be
expected to continue to purchase animal products as commodities, but others have
demonstrated that they are willing to pay a premium for specialty products.

Use of animal products in industrial and non-food uses

Canada has seen a steady increase in development and demand for new animal
products. Eggs are increasingly seen as an industrial product. Canada is home to one
of the world's largest suppliers of extracted products from eggs (such as lysozyme,
avidin, ovalbumin, and ovotransferrin) and eggs are used for the production of vaccines
and antibodies. Other non-food uses include pregnant mare's serum gonadotropin
which is used in the production of pharmaceuticals, and antlers which are used in
oriental medicine. Biotechnology is contributing to the development of altered animal
products for medical and industrial use. A growing market exists for neutraceuticals,
which are food products with defined properties used to improve health and increase
well-being. Some Canadian chickens now produce "Omega-3" eggs, which have
high levels of alpha-linoleic acid and are marketed extensively in Canada, and
researchers are defining strategies for dairy cattle nutrition to produce milk with altered
levels of specific fatty acids.

Effects of government legislation and international
agreements

Consumer concerns about food safety have resulted in increased regulation and
monitoring of animal production. This has led to development of identification systems
in the cattle industry to allow tracking of animals from point of origin, and to increased
use of "Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points" in, for example, the "Canadian
Quality Assurance" program for swine. Legislation in some provinces governs manure
application and land use for agriculture, and legislation in other provinces is
anticipated.

International and regional agreements also reflect future demands and trends. Relevant
international accords include trade agreements such as those relating to the World
Trade Organization, intellectual property rights agreements, and multilateral
environmental agreements such as conventions on climate change (e.g. methane
emissions), desertification, and species at risk. Canada is party to the Convention on
Biological Diversity, which includes provisions relevant to access to genetic resources
and fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising from their use. There is a growing
tendency to negotiate multilateral solutions to global problems, and these must be
implemented through action taken at national and local levels.

Alternative feeds and the effects of environmental change

Most commercial animal populations in Canada have been selected for production
using standardized, high quality feeds. The use of alternative feedstuffs should increase
because of population pressures, global warming, and an increasing awareness of the
energy efficiency of animal production systems. Specific genetic traits will be needed
in farm animals to allow them to use a variety of feedstuffs.

Climate change may modify the ideal characteristics of farm animals, increasing the
need for hardiness, heat tolerance, and disease resistance. Even without climate
change, our animal populations are always at risk from new diseases and specific
disease susceptibility. Genotype x environment interactions need to be considered.
The Holstein cow for example, while an excellent forage processor, may not be the
breed best suited to a forage-gathering (i.e. pasture based) production system.
Rankings of sire or dam lines within a breed may change with changing environment
or production systems.

2.3 Alternative strategies for establishing a

system to conserve animal genetic resources

Continue as we are

A continuation of Canada's present situation has the advantage of having no direct
cost. The argument that Canada's animal industries are healthy and economically
viable with the current system can be, and has been, used. This argument is valid in
the short term.

Establish a government system

Governments could identify, fund, and manage conservation and utilization activities
without industry participation, thus having complete responsibility for biodiversity
activities. Government support and control has been seen as providing long-term
security for the public good. However, it is noteworthy that a large portion of animal
genetic resources is in the private sector and that current government approaches at all
levels is for increased partnerships with stakeholders.

Encourage the private sector to maintain resources

Some may argue that the industry will benefit so the industry should pay. Others believe
that ultimately it is the consumer that will benefit. Animal industries are concerned with
short or medium-term goals and with corporate good. Corporate mergers often result
in loss of genetic material as new managers modify strategy and consolidate genetic
material in an effort to rationalize operations and reduce costs. Government funded
economic measures to encourage industry to conserve material may become a concern
in international trade negotiations if they are seen as trade-distorting subsidies.

Develop a collaboration of all stakeholders

Animal industries in Canada are concerned about conserving animal genetic resources,
but they cannot plan or justify significant costs for the long term and do not necessarily
act for the public good as each company is responsible to its owners. Collaboration
and cost-sharing between government, industry, and civil society organizations allow
for the elaboration of goals and approaches that would be mutually beneficial. Industry
involvement would ensure a degree of economic viability, certainly in the short term,
and government involvement would ensure that long-term goals were not ignored.

2.4 Outlining future national policy, strategy,

and management plans for the conservation,
use and development of animal genetic resources

Canada does not currently have a formal program for conservation, use, and
development of animal genetic resources. However, there have been and continue to
be activities and efforts towards such development. Having a program in place should
allow for organization, information gathering and diffusion, animal rescue, and
research in a coordinated fashion on a national basis. A national program may include
some or all of the following elements:

•

Strong leadership to ensure interaction and liaison with national and international
stakeholders.

An inventory of animal genetic resources, established and revised at appropriate
intervals. Inventory to assess conservation status could include characterization of
stocks with phenotypic descriptors, with molecular information added as it becomes
available.

An emergency rescue system, which could be activated in accordance with
developed priority lists. Emergency rescue must be sufficiently funded, advertised,
and able to react quickly.

Ways and means to facilitate producers to maintain endangered breeds.

Education, advocacy, and public awareness programs to develop and maintain
broad support.

Further research into preservation techniques, including cryogenic technology for
species such as swine and poultry, molecular technology for most species, and
research on management of small populations.

Part 3. Reviewing the State of National

Capacities Related to Farm Animal
Genetic Resources

3.1 Assessment of national capacities and
capacity building

Human resources and infrastructure available

In Canada, no scientific personnel are directly allocated to farm animal genetic
resources conservation and Canada has very little publicly-funded infrastructure devoted
to the maintenance of these resources. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and the
Canadian Farm Animal Genetic Resources Foundation recently initiated a process of
forming a Steering Committee and developing a business plan with the intent to
establish a program involving governments, the animal industries, and academia, to
support conservation of farm animal genetic resources. There is no federal legislation
specifically related to the conservation of farm animal genetic resources. The
Experimental Farm Stations Act, which permits the establishment of farm stations across
Canada, also charges the officers of these farm stations with the duty of conducting
research bearing on the agricultural industry of Canada.

Canada has eight agriculture faculties that grant degrees, four veterinary colleges, and
a number of technical colleges that grant diplomas in agriculture, animal science, or
both. Most of these have some personnel with expertise in quantitative or molecular
genetics or reproductive technologies that could be useful in conserving farm animal
genetic resources. Current teaching programs in animal science offer at most one or
two lectures on animal genetic resources conservation. Other faculties have science
programs which include teaching and research in biology, biochemistry, molecular
biology, and reproductive technologies. A few post secondary educational institutions
have environmental sustainability programs which may include agricultural biodiversity
sections. The need to distinguish wild and captive stocks has led to some research on
genetic structure of species such as bison, wapiti and caribou.

One of Canada's federal agricultural research locations currently keeps several lines of
chickens and Japanese quail. Several locations have programs in animal biotechnology
and reproductive technology. The Canadian Livestock Records Corporation maintains
pedigree databases and has expertise in this area. Some of the breed associations
maintain pedigree databases either on their own or in collaboration with Canadian
Livestock Records Corporation. The Saskatchewan Research Council, in collaboration
with many of the purebred cattle associations in Canada, operates Bova-Can
Laboratories at the University of Saskatchewan campus. Bova-Can Laboratories
provides parentage testing using DNA technologies and cytogenetic analysis.

Canada's animal industries devote sufficient infrastructure to keep stocks of animals to
serve their current development needs. Some companies keep a limited number of lines
in anticipation of future needs. With rare exceptions, farm animals are kept for the sole
purpose of ensuring future industry competitiveness with little or no concern for
conservation itself.

The civil societies, Rare Breeds Canada and the Canadian Farm Animal Genetic
Resources Foundation, provide frameworks for conservation but have limited facilities.
Each has a communications network including a newsletter. A Rescue Network Plan
(Crawford et al., 1 995) was completed under contract to Rare Breeds International for
the Canadian Animal Germplasm Technical Experts Board and could serve as the basis
for a rescue network. Zoological societies and museums have some staff with
conservation training, and private individuals have substantial interest and expertise.

Canada has free-roaming populations of native North American animals (elk, deer,
bison) that are or could be farmed, which represent a significant source of genetic
diversity. Public and private agencies are engaged in the conservation of native
species in the wild and Canada's national, provincial, and regional parks and
conservation areas are important for maintaining this diversity.

Human resources and infrastructure needed

A conservation of farm animal genetic resources program would require human
resources and infrastructure to:

• Liaise with industry, academics, governments, and non-governmental and
international organizations to link expertise and resources that are relevant to
conserving farm animal genetic resources and serve as a conduit for international co-
operation.

• Manage information, including development and maintenance of a database that can
provide a linkage between existing databases and capture and store additional pedigree,
phenotypic, and molecular information.

• Establish and manage cryogenic storage facilities and conduct and coordinate research on
the development of new or improved methods of storing genetic information.

• Conduct research on genetic distance and the use of genetic diversity.

• Provide outreach programs and liaison with diverse groups, supplying promotional material
and information to educational institutions, the general public and individuals requiring
genetic advice on the management of small populations.

• Advocate for farm animal genetic resources.

The members of the program would need a broad understanding of genetics and expertise
with agricultural species. They would need expertise in wildlife biology because of the
interaction between farm animals and the environment, and because wild species such as elk,
deer, and mink are currently being farmed. Expertise in the social sciences and economics is
needed; for example, anthropologists may be called upon to ensure the involvement of local
peoples with traditional knowledge of indigenous animal species. Marketing expertise would
be needed to highlight the needs and successes of the program, and communications
expertise would ensure that the issue of farm animal genetic resources receives adequate
public exposure to maintain continuing support.

Infrastructure needed to conserve farm animal genetic resources in Canada includes:

• A physical location, although all components need not be in the same location.

nformation management resources to house pedigree, phenotypic, and molecular

•

nformation and link existing databases.

• Laboratory space and cryogenic storage capacity for processing gametes for cryogenic
storage where technology is available.

• Research capacity to develop new technologies for storage of genetic material and to
investigate the nature, extent, importance and uses of existing genetic diversity.

• Animal holding facilities with defined health status to allow collection of gametes, support
research, and as part of a rescue network.

At least three options exist on locating a farm animal genetic resources program.

• The program can be physically diffuse, without a central location but with many widely
separate locations contributing to the program. This option has the advantage that some
existing programs can contribute easily as individual parts of the program, but the
disadvantage that it provides a weakened central focus.

• The program can have a central location with satellites. This option includes the advantages
of a physically diffuse program without the principal disadvantage of a weak central focus.

• The program can have a single location. Whereas this option would provide an excellent
focus and the best critical mass of personnel, it could ignore valuable human and physical
resources that are available at other locations.

Part 4. Priorities for the Development of
an Enhanced National Program of
Sustainable Conservation and
Utilization of Farm Animal Genetic
Resources

4.1 National priorities for all species and interest
groups

A national program would benefit the conservation and sustainable utilization of farm
animal genetic resources. Facilities for keeping live animals could serve as part of a
rescue network, allow collection of semen or tissue, and support a research program.
Information systems and an emergency response system to coordinate rescue of specific
groups of animals would be needed as part of a national strategy. Protocols for
evaluation of specific populations would be needed to determine the level of support
that will be provided. Methods of distributing technical information to interested groups
would be essential.

Priorities as indicated by groups representing all of the principal species of farm animals
include:

• Education and promotion of conservation with public, industry, and governments.

• Organization of information.

• Research on technologies useful for conservation.

• A system of rescue networks.

4.2 Priorities for specific animal species, breeds,
regions and rural communities

Whereas action is needed to benefit all groups in a general way, there are also
specific priorities for different groups of animals because the biology, commercial status,
genetic status, and state of technological capabilities for each farm animal species are
different.

Concerns and priorities by species

In beef cattle, the development of commercial lines without regard to breed and
synthesis of new breeds is increasing. There are many beef breeds in Canada and
some are represented by very small numbers of animals. In beef cattle, the most
important need is for inventory, assessment, and cryopreservation of semen and
embryos.

In dairy cattle there is increasing concern about the small number of sire lines that are
now used in the national herd. Embryo and semen sexing will put additional pressure
on genetic variation. Information is collected by the Canadian Dairy Network, breed
associations, milk recording programs, and artificial insemination centres, and semen
samples from bulls that are tested are routinely kept by artificial insemination centres. A
national inventory of breeding stock should coordinate the data available, and
cryogenic storage of genetic material should have national coordination and a
common storage location.

Corporate control of swine breeding is increasing. Distinct breed populations are used
extensively to create selected lines, either pure or composite. In pure lines, individuals
are not necessarily registered. Systems are needed to permit adequate tracking of
genetic origin and diversity in both large and small herds. Attention should be paid to
preserving specific lines or breeds as standardization continues to reduce available
genetic resources. Research on cryogenic storage of gametes is needed.

Breeding activities for the sheep and horse industries remain in the hands of individual
farmers. Inventories are needed to establish what resources are available, particularly
those that do not fit into the registration system and possibly in conjunction with broader
performance recording programs. The goat industry in Canada is small and has a low
visibility, but there are opportunities for growth. It is important to encourage maintenance
of endangered groups of animals with significance to Canada, particularly in the sheep
industry. Research is needed on reproductive technologies which will allow efficient
freezing of semen and embryos.

Corporate breeding dominates the industry for chicken egg and meat production and
for turkey meat production. Corporate mergers have created extreme concentration in
the breeding industry, with associated concern about the effect on remaining genetic
diversity. Inventories are needed for broiler and layer chickens, including inventories of
stocks that are not part of mainstream agriculture but have good production under
reasonably good conditions. Research into technologies such as DNA and fibroblast
storage is needed.

Duck and goose breeding and production are on a small scale compared to those of
chickens and turkeys. Inventories are needed, especially in relation to populations
determined to be endangered and potentially useful.

Consumer demand for fox fur brings about cyclic production resulting in periodic major
loss of breeding stocks. The situation is less extreme for mink, but inbreeding is
commonly practiced in both foxes and mink, partly as a result of lack of breeder
education. Characterization and inventories are needed, as well as research and
liaison with other fur-producing nations.

Farm production of species native to Canada (bison and elk for example) is increasing,
although the incidence of disease has presented a significant challenge. Inventories,
followed by assessment of genetic diversity in relation to the wild population, are crucial
at this stage of development of our interactions with these species. Liaisons must be
developed with indigenous people involved in both wild commercial harvest and farm
production.

Part 5. Recommendations for International
Co-operation

Canada seeks stronger links with countries and regions that have similar production
systems. For example, Canada seeks increased interaction with Nordic countries for
fur species, and continued interaction with the United States for beef cattle
characterization.

Canada seeks to cooperate with other industrialized nations, within North America and
elsewhere, to ensure that farm animal genetic resources are maintained and available
for use in intensive environments. This must include information sharing to avoid
unnecessary duplication of efforts or misguided application of resources to groups of
animals that are rare within a country but not on a world basis.

Canada seeks to cooperate with research communities in other countries to share
research results and collaborate with other countries in the development and application
of technology.

Canada seeks to continue and to enhance liaison with the FAO as the global leader
in animal genetic resources utilization and conservation. Civil society organizations
should be encouraged to continue and increase liaison with other similar organizations,
including Rare Breeds International, in utilization and conservation of animal genetics
resources.

Part 6. Other Elements

6.1 Preparation of the report

This report was prepared following the format and guidelines prepared by the FAO in
their document "Preparation of the First Report on the State of the World's Animal
Genetic Resources - Guidelines for the Development of Country Reports". In addition,
S. K. Ho, D. L. Patterson, and F. G. Silversides attended a training session for Canada
and the United States presented by FAO staff in Fort Collins, Colorado (USA) from
November 8 to 10, 2001.

An ad hoc advisory committee of stakeholders was assembled in Saskatoon,
Saskatchewan on November 24 to 25, 2001 where they presented their viewpoints.
Subsequent to this, additional input was collected by e-mail, fax, mail, through
telephone conversations, and personally, from ad hoc advisory committee members
and others as necessary, and incorporated into a first draft. This was circulated to ad
hoc advisory committee members on May 1 , 2002.

An outline of the report and the process employed was presented to Canada's
Subcommittee on Genetic Resources (Chaired by B. Fraleigh) of the Interdepartmental
FAO Committee on March 1 3, 2002 in Ottawa, and again at another meeting of the
Subcommittee on June 20, 2002.

Responses of ad hoc advisory committee members to the first draft were incorporated
into a second draft which in turn was circulated to them for validation in July 2002.
A telephone conference of the ad hoc advisory committee was held on August 7,
2002, and approval-in-principle was given to the document, pending final revisions.
In addition, committee members asked that "A Call to Action" (Annex B) be included in
the Country Report.

The draft report was submitted to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food by
R. D. Crawford, Chair of the ad hoc advisory committee on September 6, 2002.
It was then reviewed and revised by the Subcommittee on Genetic Resources of the
Interdepartmental FAO Committee.

6.2 Annexes

Annex A. Tables concerning animal production and use
(from data provided by Agricultural Division,
Statistics Canada, June, 2002)

Table 1 : Land use in Canada

Area (ha)

Trends

in Area (ha)a

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