Local cattle breeds in Europe (Development of policies and strategies for self-sustaining breeds)

The majority of cattle breeds in Europe are native or local breeds, usually characterised by a limited geographical distribution. The breeds have significant potential as they are carrying large amounts of genetic variation and have important cultural, historical, socio-economic and environmental values. 'Local cattle is living inheritance, old germplasm which shouldn't get lost', said one farmer. These breeds were once regionally the most popular ones, now many of them are 'at risk'. Hence, there is a need to (further) develop effective policies and strategies at national and European level to conserve and develop local cattle breeds and to promote their branded use. The European local cattle populations were a target in the EURECA project, co-funded by the European Commission. The aim was to better understand the state of the breeds, to identify factors that contribute to their success or failure and to recommend decision-making tools for development of ambitious and sound strategies and policies. With this full colour publication we share the methodology and give a comprehensive view on European local cattle breeds. We hope that our findings and recommendations will contribute to the development of successful future strategies for local cattle breeds in Europe. 'The cows are like diesel cars; Slow start, cheap energy and long life'.