This message is from: "Karen McCarthy" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> ----Original Message Follows---- Date: Sat, 11 Jan 2003 09:41:49 -0700
This message is from: Beth Beymer, Starfirefarm "...I might be treading on thin ice here with my limited knowledge of genetics, but I think the world wide gene pool in fjords is large enough to support continued improvement of the breed within itself, without needing to outcross. " I totally agree with you Beth. And I percieve that the quality and diversity available w/in the Fjord breed worldwide has really improved in the the last 20+ years, as Gov't Studs & organizations throughout the world have become focused on improving the breed, and really recognising & exposing specific lines & crosses. FHI is a good idea IMO. "..Fortunately, we have people in North America who have been willing to import horses from Norway, Denmark, Germany and Holland which have added to the diversity of the gene pool here." .....and don't forget Finland :~) Janice Lee has recently imported a very nice stallion, Saethersblakken. I recently recieved some photos of him, and he's definitley an asset to our N. American fjord future. "..I have also heard comments about some Norwegians saying that they were glad to see the draftier fjords still here in America. If it became necessary, they might look to our bloodlines in the future to improve their lines." Yes, Beth, just another reason to keep a proper perspective when breeding, and the importance of looking towards the past with an eye on the future when breeding fjords. I admit, I have been really "taken in" by some of the gorgeous modern types of Fjords being bred that I see displayed in print ads.When I have been fortunate enough to see them up close & in person, sometimes I am a bit disappointed, because in person, often the more 'horsey' part of the equation stands out, and although they are lovely individuals, I do have a hard time seeing the essential (and elusive to define) Fjord type in them. But to each his/her own - and no I don't think the "sky is falling" or anything, that we are in great danger & will lose the fjord character & type, as they are too strong & pre-potent of a breed to do so.This has even been proven in the not to distant past when the Norwegians themselves bred for definite types/styles to the exclusion of others, sometimes out of necesscity as during & after WWII, sometimes because of a "fad' . They even experimented w/ a bit of Arab blood. The breed has zigged & zagged, but always has managed to come back in balance. It is our awareness of this, that's placed us in the position of what Brian Jensen refers to as 'stewards of the breed' with the respsonsibility of being conscientious and diligent owners & breeders. Well, that's it for now. Time to go out & be where its really at for me: with the weegees.Gotta get ready for my first lesson ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) in god knows HOW long.... Since being back in the saddle after the back injury, I am sure I am guilty of doing odd compensatory things when riding, so its time for a checkup... Kmac Karen McCarthy, in freakin' cold but snowless Carson City, N.Nevada ------------------------------------------------------------------------ MSN 8 with e-mail virus protection service: 2 months FREE*
