Join us for an inspiring online exchange dedicated to revitalizing pastoralism in Europe’s mountain and rural regions. This forum will bring together pastoral schools, experts, and practitioners to explore new approaches to training, knowledge sharing, and business innovation in extensive livestock systems.
Discover real-world experiences and case studies that show how shepherds’ education, ecological stewardship, and rural entrepreneurship can go hand in hand, ensuring a resilient and sustainable future for pastoral communities.
The FORUM entitled Shepherding Futures: Training, Innovation, and Rural Revival will be held online on 4 December from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Key Themes:
1. Rethinking the Economic Potential of Shepherding
How can pastoralism become a viable and attractive livelihood for new generations? Frosina Pandurska and Stephanie Gentle will present “Connecting Livestock Keeping and Tourism in Dibër, Albania”, an initiative linking breeders and tourism in the Shar–Korab–Koritnik region through the 2024 Euronatur project — showing how diversification can strengthen local economies and give new dignity to pastoral work.
2. Sharing Pastoral Knowledge: A Tool for Access and a Driver of Innovation
Knowledge transfer is key to sustaining pastoral practices and opening the profession to younger generations. Tamara Mitrofanenko (Carpathian Convention) will share updates from ongoing efforts in the Carpathian Region, including the project “Linking biodiversity, pastoralism and cultural heritage through ESD”, as well as outcomes from the Forum Carpaticum and the International Mountain Conference 2025, highlighting how education can bridge science, policy, and practice.
3. Innovative Approaches to Ecology and Climate Change: Strategies for Adaptation, Mitigation, and Management
Extensive grazing is a cornerstone of sustainable ecosystem management. Maria Diaz (Escola de Pastors i Pastores de Catalunya) will present a training module on “pastoral eco-diagnostics” developed within the Erasmus+ EcoPasto project, while Marco Fernandes (Alvão Shepherds’ School) will showcase training on landscape management, carbon sequestration, and environmental sustainability, as well as modules that enhance diversified rural income opportunities.
Following the presentations, a dedicated discussion will explore the central role of pastoral schools in these initiatives — how they can strengthen training systems, support small pastoral businesses, and address the social, economic, and environmental challenges of extensive farming. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and collaborate for the future of pastoralism!