PITTSBORO, N.C. (RFD News) — Rare breeds of livestock and poultry continue playing an important role in preserving agricultural biodiversity and protecting genetic diversity within the industry.
As part of International Heritage Breeds Week, Les O’Dell with The Livestock Conservancy joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to discuss the importance of heritage breeds and the organization’s efforts to help protect them.
In his conversation with RFD News, O’Dell discussed the work being done through The Livestock Conservancy, along with highlights from the group’s annual Conservation Priority List.
The conversation also focused on how organizations and producers are celebrating International Heritage Breeds Week and raising awareness about the role heritage breeds continue playing in agriculture.
The Ranger Road Fire is fully contained after burning nearly 300,000 acres. Ranchers face significant cattle and fence losses, with recovery efforts underway.
February 26, 2026 01:04 PM
·
USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance payments could begin this weekend as producers face tight margins, shifting acreage expectations, cattle herd contraction, and growing pressure for a stronger farm safety net.
February 26, 2026 12:11 PM
·
Nick Westgerdes of the American Society of Farm Managers & Rural Appraisers breaks down farmland values, rental rates, and sales trends in Illinois, while previewing the upcoming land values conference for 2026.
February 25, 2026 02:59 PM
·
Analysts warn the closed U.S.-Mexico border is straining cattle supplies and packing capacity. StoneX and USDA data point to long-term industry shifts.
February 25, 2026 12:37 PM
·
Michael Kelsey of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association joined us with the latest on the Oklahoma wildfires, recovery efforts for ranchers, and the role agriculture leaders are playing in supporting rural communities.
February 25, 2026 12:13 PM
·
High beef prices are squeezing South Texas restaurants, but Texas Farm Bureau says consumer demand remains strong despite record costs.
February 25, 2026 11:12 AM
·