ShepherdSchool, the School for Shepherds and Breeders under the LIFE ShepForBio project, is ready to welcome new aspiring shepherds and breeders. The 2025 edition marks the third year of this initiative, with 8 spots available. The program begins on April 4.
The School for Shepherds and Breeders is part of the conservation activities outlined in the LIFE20 NAT/IT/001076 ShepForBio project (Action C5). The main objective of the project is to improve the conservation status of three grassland habitats identified by the European Union as having significant natural value. This is achieved by promoting and developing pastoral activities, which are uniquely capable of ensuring the sustainable and long-term management of these environments.
The School aims to train new shepherds and breeders, encouraging pastoralism in rural and mountainous areas. This contributes to addressing the low generational turnover that affects the sector, thereby improving the conservation of grasslands and pastures through grazing. Of the 15 shepherds trained during the first two years of the program, 5 have started their own businesses, 2 have obtained a livestock registration code (a prerequisite for starting a breeding business), 1 is employed by a livestock company, and 3 others, who already owned businesses, have enhanced and expanded their operations.
Registrations are open until February 15, 2025.
The registration form and all useful information on the course are available on the LIFE SHEPFORBIO website