Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) has appointed Powys’ Jenni Hughes-Ellis as Conservation Advisor for Wales. Jenni began the RBST role in May 2026, working to conserve and promote native livestock and equine breeds.

Some of Wales’ most iconic livestock and equine breeds are classified as 'Priority' or 'At Risk' on the RBST rare breeds Watchlist, such as the Ancient Cattle of Wales, the Pedigree Welsh Mountain sheep, the Welsh pig, the Brecon Buff goose, and the Section B Welsh Pony. The RBST Conservation Advisor for Wales role will ensure a strengthened voice for Wales-specific issues within RBST; while also driving a stronger voice for native breeds in Wales.

 Jenni has long held a great passion for livestock and equines, sparked by her beginnings on her parents’ hill farm in Mid Wales. After 10 years serving in the British Army, Jenni returned to working with livestock in a role as Animal Health Officer at Powys County Council. She is in the final year of a Masters degree in Agrifood Innovation, focusing mainly on livestock health, welfare and sustainability across different areas of the sector. Outside work and study Jenni has kept equines for nearly 30 years and also keeps a small flock of sheep. 

 New RBST Conservation Advisor for Wales Jenni Hughes-Ellis says: “This is a pivotal time for rare livestock and equine breeds and I am thrilled to be working for their strong future in Wales at RBST. Farming is facing many challenges, some of which are threatening rare breed conservation, but others are bringing to the fore the commercial opportunities offered by low input native breeds and their high-quality produce. Awareness is increasing too about utilising native breeds for conservation grazing purposes. 

 “I’m particularly looking forward to helping bring people from across Wales together for new conservation programmes; and engaging with Welsh Government on important issues such as support for keeping native breeds in the new Sustainable Farming Scheme, and the future of small and medium abattoirs in Wales.”

 Jenni’s role with RBST will focus on native livestock and equine breed activity in Wales, across breeds originating in Wales and other breeds native to the UK. As well as engaging with Welsh Government on relevant issues, Jenni will support rare breed promotion at shows and events, and will work with RBST members, farm parks, breed societies and other stakeholders on projects to conserve and promote these irreplaceable breeds.

 Find out more about RBST at www.rbst.org.uk