MAINE SUNDAY TELEGRAM • August 7, 2022
Rare livestock breeds, derived from farmers of generations past, are seeing a resurgence in popularity in Maine and across the nation, according to livestock specialists. Sometimes called “heritage” breeds, these are domesticated animals from a pre-industrial era of farming. Lexi Rutherford, who manages Unity College’s Heritage Livestock Barn, where they have three San Clemente Island goats, three American Guinea hogs and five Katahdin sheep, said these breeds are “living history.” Proponents say the animals offer unique genetics that help them to resist heat, to forage and to guard against parasites.