HLC Gene Bank

Ensuring the survival of heritage genetics.

HLC Gene Bank

It all began with a vision. Following the same principle as Seed Savers, HLC founder Jy Chiperzak foresaw the need to also preserve the genetics of endangered livestock. The HLC gene bank is currently comprised of cattle, swine, equine and extremely rare sheep semen.

Our equine inventory is held with Iron Horse Equine. The remainder is to be placed with Bow Valley Genetics Ltd.

We welcome donations to the HLC gene bank, both semen and embryos. Financial contributions also ensure our semen tanks can be maintained in the long term.

Bovine semen

Our inventory is comprised of both dairy and cattle breeds. Among those are Highland, White Park, Kerry, Canadienne, Lynch Lineback, Dexter, Dual Purpose Shorthorn and Guernsey. You can view a list of semen for sale on our semen sales page.

  • Semen is sold by application to HLC members.

  • When there are 10 or fewer straws semen is only released to those who are prepared to complete embryo work.

  • The herd must be purebred and registered.

  • Please apply to: Elwood Quinn, Livestock Committee Co-Chair

Swine semen

HLC is fortunate to the beneficiary of imported Irish semen. Our importation inventory is comprised of the following breeds: Tamworth, Hampshire and Berkshire.

We also hold domestic semen for Large Black, Berkshire and Lacombe.

  • Semen is sold by application to HLC members

  • Preference is given to those who have experience utilizing frozen swine semen and/or have an experienced technician to complete the process.

  • Herds must be purebred and registered.

  • Please apply to: Adam Arenburg , Livestock Committee Co-Chair

Equine semen

Our equine inventory currently contains Canadian Horse genetics, in the form of frozen semen from: Wal Ken Wonka Nimrod. Nimrod semen is available to:

  • Semen is sold by application to HLC members

  • Preference is given to those with experience using frozen equine semen and/or have a technician capable of completing the process.

  • The recipient mare must be purebred and registered.

  • Please apply to the Pam Heath, Office Manager

*Please note the pictured Canadian Horse is “Merrit”. Courtesy of Yvonne Hillsden.