Sustainable grazing for the preservation of vital grassland ecosystems

Challenge 

Beneath the serene beauty of Korab Koritnik Nature Park, silent threats loom over its pristine ecosystems. The ancient tradition of shepherding, a keystone for biodiversity, faces extinction as migration and land abandonment rise. We must act decisively to protect these natural wonders, safeguard critical habitats, engaging local shepherds to revive their ancestral practices and implement sustainable measures. 

Objective

Our goal is to conserve alpine grasslands in the Korab-Koritnik Nature Park by supporting sustainable grazing practices. We will assess threatened habitats, address grazing abandonment by improving shepherds' conditions and diversifying their income, and tackle human-wildlife conflicts. This enhances knowledge about grasslands, boosts shepherds' income, and fosters community engagement.

Approach

To achieve our project objectives, we will: 

• assess and analyze threatened grassland habitats and the drivers of grazing abandonment.
• engage local shepherds, promote sustainable grazing practices,
• provide training and foster stakeholder cooperation.
• collaborate with institutions and NGOs to enhance conservation efforts.

Expected Results

Our aim is to increase the area of grassland under management to 30% by reducing the rate of land abandonment from 10% to 5% per year. We will train at least 6 shepherds in sustainable grazing methods and income diversification strategies, build the capacity of 50 farming households and involve 10 shepherds in local conservation events.