NordGen releases detailed report on the status of equine breeds in the Nordic countries
What is the status, challenges and opportunities related to the horse breeds across the Nordic countries? The report "Equines in the Nordics" offers an in-depth analysis of the topic and is a significant milestone as it marks the first collective effort to document and evaluate the equine sector in Denmark, Finland, the Faroe Islands, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden.
The report “Equines in the Nordics” highlights the long-standing relationship between horses and Nordic societies, tracing their presence back to the Bronze Age. Over the centuries, horses have played pivotal roles in warfare, agriculture, forestry, and transportation. Today, while their roles have largely shifted to leisure and sports, horses continue to be an integral part of the Nordic cultural heritage.
“Although there has been cooperation between the Nordic countries in the horse sector, a collective report of the status of all the Nordic countries has been missing. This report marks a start for this type of effort by considering both commercial and native breeds. The goal of the report is to identify knowledge gaps and areas of improvement for the Nordic equine sector and the collected data of the native horse breeds.” says Mervi Honkatukia, Section leader for NordGen Farm Animals.
Economic importance and endangered breeds
The equine sector is a notable contributor to the economy in the Nordic countries. For instance, Denmark's equine sector boasts a turnover of 22.5 billion DKK. In Sweden, the sector has seen growth, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as interest in horse ownership surged.
The report also includes information about the 14 native horse breeds in the Nordic region. These breeds, including the Icelandic horse, the Norwegian Fjord horse, and the Swedish Gotland pony, are celebrated for their unique adaptations to the harsh Nordic environments. However, the report reveals that many of these breeds are endangered and require active conservation measures. Only the Icelandic horse, due to its global popularity and strict import regulations in Iceland, is not at risk.
Population Statistics and Genetic Diversity
Accurate population data is crucial for the conservation of these breeds. The report identifies significant gaps and inconsistencies in the available data, with varying estimates from different sources. This lack of reliable data poses a challenge for managing breeding programs effectively.
“Having identified the knowledge gaps within the equine sector is an important step. It enables us to continue our work for conserving and promoting a sustainable use of farm animal genetic resources”, says Mervi Honkatukia.
Furthermore, the report emphasizes the importance of genetic diversity, which ensures the breeds' resilience to changing environmental conditions and diseases.
Data Collection Methods
The data for this report was gathered using various methods, including the Domestic Animal Diversity Information System (DAD-IS) maintained by the FAO, questionnaires sent to stakeholders, and scientific literature. Despite the challenges in data collection, this comprehensive approach provides a robust foundation for future conservation and management efforts. The report concludes with a call to action for improved data collection and enhanced conservation efforts.
“It also underscores the need for continued cooperation among Nordic countries to preserve their unique equine heritage” says Mervi Honkatukia.
For more detailed information, the full report is available online at Equines in the Nordics.