The Dexter Legacy Conservancy, established in 2005, aims to highlight and preserve Dexter Cattle of the oldest, most traditional American Dexter lines, a gene pool without the genetic influence of modern "improved" bulls. This group keeps seed stock for other Dexter breeders, provides a focus for those whose primary interest in Dexters is in preservation, and aims to promote awareness of pedigree information and maintain accurate records. Through a database of DNA samples of the American Dexter herd established at the University of California - Davis, The Dexter Legacy Conservancy hopes to initiate research on this unique breed. At this time, several members of the group are gathering photos and data for preliminary research on color genetics. There are currently three active associations for registered Dexter Cattle on the North American continent, all of which recognize the wonderful small, docile cattle called Dexters--hardy, efficient grazers on rough acreages, long-lived, fertile, easy-calvers, house-cows, good for both milk and meat. The Legacy group is distinctive in its intent is to remain a conservation and research group highlighting the earlier lines in America, with an effort to stick with the purest bloodlines harking back to the ideal "survivor cow."
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