Breeding Association Receives Financial Grant for Genetic Research

The Dutch Equine Breed Registry Association (KSP) has received financial support
received a commitment to conduct research on ‘genetic management”
’making the equine sector more sustainable." A PPP grant, supplemented by contributions from
De Koepel, KWPN, and the initiative’s organizer, KFPS, are contributing a total of 1.3 million euros, which the
will become available over the next four years. ‘All of our studbooks will benefit from this,’ according to
A delighted chairman of the umbrella organization, Pieter Wiersinga, adds that it is unique that
the equine sector has been allocated such a sum for research. ‘This is for
’Good news for all studbooks."

Genomics in Breeding Programs

Last September, the Breeding Association, with the assistance of Wageningen UR, conducted the
request for a so-called PPP (Public-Private Partnership) submitted to the
TKI’s Agri & Food, Horticulture & Propagation Materials, and Water & Maritime. In this plan
The studbooks, united under De Koepel Fokkerij, are collaborating with Wageningen UR,
Delta Horses and the Van Haeringen Laboratory. The focus is on expanding
Application of genomics, a key technology, in breeding programs for large and small
Horse and pony stud books to promote welfare and health (including, among others,
inbreeding and hereditary defects) in equines. ‘DNA information can be extremely valuable
’contribute to the genetic improvement of health and welfare and the reduction of inbreeding,",
"said Bart Ducro, a researcher at Wageningen UR, who notes that DNA collection at
including the KWPN and the KFPS, is already laying the groundwork. ‘For each studbook, there will be
Guidelines will be established on the best breeding practices, taking into account
’health and inbreeding in that stud book."

Launch in 2024

The KFPS and the KWPN have been using DNA data as a tool for quite some time now
to improve the horses' well-being and health. By awarding
This funding will also benefit small equine studbooks.
Researchers at Wageningen UR will continue to develop the project plan in the coming months
develop and consult with the various parties so that the study can begin in 2024
can start.

Dome Breeding

The Umbrella Organization for Equine Breed Registries (KSP) is the umbrella association for the
most recognized pony, horse, and other equine studbooks in
The Netherlands. The organization’s collaboration and advocacy efforts focus on breeding, the
The Umbrella Organization serves on the Equine Sector Council. The Umbrella Organization's activities include
including the basic training for breeding judges, as well as the successful project
‘Owner Seeks Rider’ was launched by the Koepel.