This  inspiring online exchange dedicated to revitalizing pastoralism in Europe’s mountain and rural regions was organised as part of the LIFE project ShepForBio (Shepherds for Biodiversity in Mountain Marginal Areas). This forum brought 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.

Three key themes were explored:

• Rethinking the economic potential of shepherding
• Sharing pastoral knowledge: a tool for access and a driver of innovation
• Innovative approaches to ecology and climate change: adaptation, mitigation and management strategies

The Forum entitled Shepherding Futures: Training, Innovation, and Rural Revival was  held online on 4 December 2025 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Event material