Neue Hirten braucht das Land – Ein Diskussionspapier

The country needs new shepherds – A discussion paper</strong> Nature conservation-oriented grazing is a crucial factor in preserving biodiversity. Grazing farms and livestock are declining in many mid-mountain regions, raising the question of how this trend can be halted. One possibility is to improve the funding situation to promote the public goods provided by extensive, nature conservation-oriented pastures. Another approach lies in the advisory and practical support of grazing farms. Following the withdrawal of agricultural consulting in Bavaria, it is becoming increasingly difficult for these farms to receive professional support. The nature conservation administration also has limited capacity to advise and promote the desired nature conservation-oriented grazing management. This creates a need for "nature conservation shepherds" as practical intermediaries between nature conservation and agriculture. The new shepherds would need to possess both practical expertise in agriculture and training in nature conservation. This paper outlines the potential areas of activity and deployment for new shepherds and forms a basis for discussion on the introduction of a new training direction.