Conservation policies of endangered farm animals: The case of working equines

Working equines are used from ancient times until today, for all kinds of daily tasks. In the case of wood and wood products transport, working equines are the major mean of transportation. However, the conservation of the local breeds face serious problems related to genetic protection. A serious environmental policy is required in order to continue to offer their services to forestry. The survey was conducted in the prefecture of Evros, in order to find and register all the owners of working equines. To conduct the survey, a questionnaire with questions tailored to the needs of the research was used and the personal interview was chosen as a method. Descriptive statistics were used for processing the data. According to the results, the owners of the working equines need state funding to preserve these animals and their traditional uses. Additionally the research demonstrates the strong relationship of every owner with the working equines, despite the high cost of maintenance and the difficulties in work.