Saladin, I have some questions which I hope isn't intruding on the thread, but it has to do with the breeding program you mentioned. I am new to breeding so I apologize if my questions show it!
I have 3 young roosters and 9 pullets, all of which are related. I've been debating whether to bust them up into three groups with a roo and 3 hens each, or perhaps just making 2 groups saving one of the roosters as back up incase something happens to one of the others. These are not hatchery birds, but are Speckled Sussex from a breeder. How do you think your "Option 2" plan would work with 3 trios of related birds and how would you do it? Or do you think I should just do two? Or do something else? I've kicked around the rolling system and/or line breeding, but after reading your post it appears that keeping the birds mated to more distant relatives than father/daughter etc. would give more longevity to the lines.
Also, I have another flock of SS which are not related to the first group although they came from the same breeder. They are 2 yrs. old, one rooster and 5 hens. I'm thinking it best not to mix the two flocks, but not really sure.
You just don't find that many SS from breeders floating around, so I certainly want to do the best I can with them. I sure would like to hear any suggestions you have.
Thanks a bunch.