The mountain pasture is a space that we share. A place of life and work for centuries, they are also coveted by hikers today. Mountain lovers like to immerse themselves in the heart of these oceans of greenery and watch the rays of the sun play with the flight of butterflies and the dance of flowers.
This cohabitation is fluid when each actor of the places adapts. So that the herds graze without stress, that the shepherds work without hindrance, that the guard dogs do not confuse you with a hungry predator and that you can enjoy the landscape as well as this pastoral life, here are a few small rules to follow.
What is pastoralism?
More and more of us are visiting the mountains in summer and we sometimes don't know what pastoralism is. To raise awareness among as many people as possible, overcome preconceived ideas and share high-altitude spaces peacefully, we invite you to discover www.pasto-kezako.fr, the first information and awareness site on pastoralism. Enjoy your trip!
The basics of “knowing how to be” in the mountain pastures
The Alps
The quality of the grazed grass is essential.
Agro-pastoral activity makes it possible to enhance the value of alpine grass for feeding herds, but also to preserve the quality and richness of natural mountain environments. To preserve it, the impact of your visit must be minimal, so please stay on the paths.
The herd
When approaching the herd, in order not to frighten it and create a movement of panic, it is enough to respect the following advice:
- Spot it from afar for anticipate your passage. As he approached, Slow down, talk with a deep voice saying “Ola, I’m passing” so that the herd spots you. Avoid startle reactions that could put it in danger.
- How do animals behave?
- Ear movements, glances, slow movements and all these little people start grazing again? Everything is fine, you are spotted, pass calmly.
- Signs of concern, rapid movements, head in the air, ears back? We stop and continue talking. Once calm has returned, we move on to talking.
- To put them at ease, avoid looking at the animals head-on, lower your head and look to the side. Ideally, remove your sunglasses.
- Even if we recommend above not to leave the paths (so as not to trample on fragile nature), there is the exception which confirms the rule for herds: it is better to leave the path to do not cross the herd and ideally go around it from above, always speaking in a deep voice.
- All your movements will be soft and slow.
- And there you have it, the meeting went well!
The Shepherd
The mountain pasture is a workplace and the chalet a private space, the shepherd's place of life and rest. Please respect his tranquility, thank you.
Protection dogs
Sometimes, flocks of sheep are protected by large white dogs, the patous. Take into account their defensive behavior when you pass near herds. Anticipate their presence, their approach must be done with caution.
> See our page dedicated to the patous.
Your dog
Herds are afraid of dogs. To make the most of the mountain pastures, it is advisable to not taking your dog with you or keeping it on a leash to avoid panic movements and accidents.
Fencing
Fences are very important to keep animals on the pasture. If you have to cross one, Be careful not to damage it and close it properly behind you so that the beasts do not escape.
Water
Animals cannot drink dirty water. Take care of the water sources you come across.
Cleanliness
Sheepdogs are attracted to droppings, so don't leave them anywhere on the mountain pastures, especially not next to chalets.
And as everywhere in the mountains, out of respect for those who live and work in the mountain pastures and for the good of the landscapes, all rubbish must be taken back down with you.
The Uissan mountain pastures
Pastoralism is part of Oisans' DNA. 1/3 of its territory is devoted to it, or 83 hectares.
Near 150 breeders and shepherds work on the mountain pastures for the care and management of animals. They take care of around 40 sheep (90% of which come from the South of France – mainly PACA region) 1700 cows, and some hundreds of goats and horses.
An economic resource for breeders and shepherds, pastoralism is also a major contribution to the balance and richness of natural environments mountain, since the grazing of animals promotes the opening of landscapes, soil stabilization and the preservation of biodiversity.
Good reflexes in the mountains
Or how to protect nature and prepare yourself