Managed grazing of sheep and goat herds on alpine pastures is possible

• improved animal monitoring ,
• simplified access to the animal in the event of illness, injury or necessary separation from the herd, as well
• Herd protection . In addition, through targeted grazing
• the pasture area is used optimally ; overgrazing and undergrazing can be prevented more easily.

With the current challenges (e.g. large carnivores, bush encroachment, climate change), it is foreseeable that the active herding of sheep and goat herds on alpine pastures will become more important . Because guided pasture management and the associated adapted alpine pasture management can counteract current challenges. It also offers the opportunity to respond more flexibly to changes in the environment. Shepherds play a central role in this.

The aim of the project is to set up and establish training for sheep and goatherds in Austria in order to train staff for work on alpine pastures. As part of the project, the modular basic training is designed, coordinated and carried out together with project partners. In addition, the aim is to establish the training together with project partners beyond the end of the project.

Contents of the basic training for sheep and goatherds

Module 1: Introduction to sheep and goat alpine farming, herd protection

Module 2: All about animals

Module 3: Working with herding dogs

Module 4: Occupational safety, weather and natural hazards

Module 5: Pasture management

Module 6: Herd management 

The first round of training is expected to take place in spring 2025.
Project duration: September 2024 – December 2025