The Regional Secretariat for Agriculture and Food announced that, through the Regional Directorate for Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine, and Food, and in collaboration with the Directorate-General for Food and Veterinary Medicine, it carried out an important genetic collection and conservation initiative for the native Ramo Grande breed between July 21 and 25, 2025.
This initiative, which had not been carried out for almost a decade, enabled the cryopreservation of around 4,000 doses from carefully selected bulls, strengthening the genetic base available under the breed’s Conservation and Genetic Improvement Program.
With this operation, the Azores Government reaffirms its commitment to the enhancement of endogenous genetic resources and the preservation of animal biodiversity—fundamental pillars for sustainability, inbreeding control, and the resilience of the agricultural and livestock sector.
The Regional Secretary for Agriculture and Food, António Ventura, quoted in a note published on the government’s website, emphasizes that “the Ramo Grande breed is an integral part of the genetic and cultural heritage of the Azores” and “its future requires vision, investment, and coordinated action.” He adds: The head of the Azores agriculture department. “This action represents a decisive step in this strategy of protection and development, ensuring that future generations can continue to count on this breed, which is emblematic of our agricultural history.”

In Correio dos Açores-Natalino Viveiros, director.

Translated to English as a community outreach program from the Portuguese Beyond Borders Institute (PBBI) and the Modern and Classical Languages and Literatures Department (MCLL) as part of Bruma Publication and ADMA (Azores-Diaspora Media Alliance) at California State University, Fresno, PBBI thanks Luso Financial for sponsoring NOVIDADES.