Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Registering your purebred litter adds value to your herd. Pure bloodlines are worth much
more than mixed breeds. It provides paper proof that the pigs are what you represent them to
be.
Protection of rare and endangered species
There are breed registry agencies that work for the expansion of breeding rare and endangered
species of swine. Many smaller farmers opt to set aside a small area to help keep some of
these breeds from falling off the map. Tamworths, Berkshires, and large blacks, not to men-
tion the Gloucester Old Spots and others, all have their fans, with good reason. These rare or
heirloom breeds are maintained today mostly by small farmers who are intent on keeping the
breeds going and showing the world their virtues.
Aside from assisting with the information needed to start breeding these types of pigs, breed
registries are able to maintain detailed databases regarding the successes of current breeders.
It is encouraged to maintain a pure line of any rare breed of pig you may decide to raise. Mix-
ing rare types of pigs with more commonly found varieties places them at greater risk of ex-
tinction. Every litter of mixed piglets is a missed opportunity for a pure bloodline.
Heirloom breeds of swine have become popular with many chefs and aficionados of the
slow
food movement
who appreciate more flavorful food. The slow food movement is an interna-
tional movement that has grown as an alternative to the fast food such that people eat on the
go. People who are interested in “slow food” are interested in many foods that are harder to
find and that often take longer to prepare. They often prefer foods with unique flavors. Many
of the rare, older pig breeds do not grow as rapidly as commercially raised pigs. They take
longer to grow, and their meat is much more flavorful than most modern pork. Pork from
these breeds can sell well at farmers markets and through direct marketing by farmers. Niche
markets can be one of the keys to success with rare pig breeds.
The National Swine Registry
The American Yorkshire Club, the Hampshire Swine Registry, and the United Duroc Swine
Registry joined forces in 1994 to form what is now known as the National Swine Registry.
The American Landrace Association fell in with the NSR in 1998. As of this writing, these
four breeds that make up the NSR comprise 75 percent of the purebred hog population in the
United States. They represent the largest portion of the swine industry. Their genetic work is
renowned worldwide.
