The Spanish zoogenetic conservation from a non governmental organization (SERGA)

The Spanish Society for the Conservation of Animal Genetic Resources (SERGA) starts its activities as a scientific association in 1988, responding to the demands of farmers, researchers and administrations regarding the lost of the rich zoogenetic patrimony of Spain. SERGA was formed as a presidential association with centralized management, but in 2002 was adapted to the federalist structure of Spain, creating sections by regions. SERGA was National Focal Point in FAO until 2000, and represents Spain in all forum related to animal genetic conservation. Also in 2000 we start collaboration with SPREGA, the Portuguese Society, developing several Iberic actions. We have done together seven international congresses with more than four hundred papers published in specific proceedings about three main subjects: Assisted reproduction; Zooethnology and Applied Genetics. We have participated in national Committees and assisted both nations in the preparations of the national inform for the FAO′s global strategy. Now we are trying to contact other Mediterranean initiatives to establish a common strategy revindicating the role of the region in Europe. The European Mediterranean count with more than 80% of the European domestic breeds, but few of our delegates are present in the decision points of the EU administration.