Heritage breeds are traditional livestock and plant varieties that have been preserved over generations. These breeds are often well-adapted to local environments and are valued for their unique traits, such as flavor, hardiness, and resilience. They are typically raised using sustainable farming practices, which help maintain biodiversity in agriculture. Many heritage breeds are at risk of extinction due to industrial farming practices that favor a few high-yield varieties. Organizations like The Livestock Conservancy work to protect these breeds by promoting their use and raising awareness about their importance in maintaining genetic diversity in our food systems.