The SCHSB Genetic Fingerprint Project is complete! The findings of the research were presented via the “St. Croix Sheep Genetics: Discoveries and Possibilities” webinar in February of 2024. The project was led by the SCHSB Board of Directors, Dr. Brenda Murdoch from the University of Idaho, and Dr. Phil Sponenberg, Technical Program Director for The Livestock Conservancy. The work confirmed that the St. Croix breed clusters distinctly and separately from all other hair sheep breeds. Therefore, it is possible to employ genetic testing to identify the breed. Additional molecular testing revealed that the sample pool of St. Croix sheep was genetically diverse and free from common genetic diseases. This is good news and a great start!
Genetics Committee
A Genetics committee consisting of Board members (Lori Marion, Crystal Criswell, Amy Wheeler) and volunteer association members (Scottie Greene, Jovi Larson, Matt Marlowe, Tara Seltz) held several meetings. The committee considered the best usage of genetic technology to protect genetic diversity in the breed and position producers for future success.
Some of the ideas considered were as follows:
- Develop a program using the current DNA profile to allow readmission of ‘purebred but unregistered St. Croix sheep’ into the registry using a careful vetting process along with acceptable DNA testing.
- Increase the confidence of the St. Croix DNA profile by testing known crossbreds against it.
- Obtain samples from untested populations of St. Croix sheep to ensure adequate representation of the breed to the best of our ability.
- Invite the University of the Virgin Islands to test known purebred sheep from the island to compare against the U.S. mainland flock.
- Evaluate Virgin Island sheep for possible importation of semen and/or embryos to broaden and deepen the genetic pool of our breed.
- Continue to actively seek research opportunities involving St. Croix sheep
The next steps will be to compile a final report of the project and begin careful exploration of the ideas generated by the genetics committee. All considerations are subject to board approval.
Committee Chair Appointed to Board of Directors
Tara Seltz, who has been a member of SCHSB for 2018, played an active role in the Genetics Committee. The SCHSB Board of Directors voted to appoint her as a Director to fill one of the open seats and to Chair the Genetics Committee for the remainder of the project. Please contact Tara Seltz with any questions, concerns, or if you would like to participate in the project.