A little over 40 participants from across Europe, along with Roswitha Baumung representing the FAO, reviewed the final reports of the working groups on ex-situ conservation (in gene banks) in-situ conservation (breeding populations on farms), and documentation and data collection. Siepke Joost Hiemstra, , presented the work of his institute, as well as the guidelines and recommendations developed there on biosafety and quality management in gene banks.
This was followed by expert presentations on linking zooarchaeology with the work of gene banks , the genetic conservation of feral domestic animal populations , and the attempt to record and economically utilize the diversity of the Nordic short-tailed sheep group to ensure the long-term preservation of these breeds. Participants also voted on the annual budget. Attention was drawn to the peer-reviewed, open-access journal " Genetic Resources " ( https://www.genresj.org/index.php/grj ), which is supported by the ERFP and covers topics in plant and animal biodiversity. This journal offers a suitable platform for publications in the field of biodiversity , especially for early-career researchers .
On Sunday, an excursion took place to the Arztalalm in Ellbögen, where the Mair family breeds and preserves cattle of the endangered Tux-Zillertal and Pustertal Sprinzen, as well as Blobe and Blackneck goats and other animal species on their heritage farm. This provided an opportunity to discuss the specific characteristics of alpine farming and the associated adaptations of the traditional breeds, as well as to build networks among the national coordinators.
