This article is based on the report prepared by Euromontana ?The Challenges of Pastoralism: Exchange of Innovative Experiences for Sustainable Development with a Future in Mountainous Areas" by M. Guitton, C. Levret and R. Delefortrie 2008). It presents the problem of the maintaining pastoral activities in a context of the competition for land and gives three examples of tools that can, at least partly, help in solving the problem of access to land.
Pastoralism is a stockbreeding activity in which natural spaces are used in an extensive and seasonal way. The activity may require the use of two (or more) farms: there is generally a main one where the family lives; and a second one, used during a shorter period in the year and that might consist of a small cabin or be more sophisticated. The migration from one farm to another is called transhumance. The territories used for grazing vary in diversity of vegetation (meadow, pasture, rangeland, undergrowth) and diversity in location from lowland to high altitude in mountains. Pastoralism is first of all a production activity: production of meat and of dairy products, mainly from cows, sheep and goats. Pastoralism also produces positive externalities: the grazing of the animals prevents bushes and scrubs from growing; maintains an open landscape appreciated by tourists and is also beneficial for biodiversity (habitats for wildlife). Finally, it also plays a role in the prevention of natural hazards, especially of fire in Mediterranean areas.
